PROTECT THE HEBRIDEAN HORIZON FROM THE MACHAIRWIND WIND FARM

The period for submitting formal objections to the Marine Directorate has now closed — with an incredible 4,819 objections submitted through the ObjectNow platform and over 10,000 signatures on the petition (opens in new tab)which is still live.

These have been joined by powerful, detailed and well-researched objections from nearly all of our local community councils, public bodies including the National Trust for Scotland, as well as artists, writers, ecologists, residents and many others who care deeply about this extraordinary place.

The scale and breadth of the response sends a very clear message: there are serious, well-founded concerns about the proposed MachairWind development that cannot simply be ignored.

Whilst the statutory consultation period is over, the next critical stage is to influence Argyll & Bute Council's Planning, Protective Services & Licensing (PPSL) Committee before they meet to discuss this on 15th September 2026.

Find out how on our How to Object page.

For generations, Scotland’s west coast has been defined by vast seas, unspoilt island views, dark skies, wildlife and tranquillity — the very qualities that attract visitors and sustain our island economies.

That is now under threat from the proposed MachairWind development by Iberdrola — the energy giant which owns ScottishPower Renewables (SPR), with an industrial development on a scale never before seen in the Inner Hebrides.

The MachairWind proposal would cover 448 km² of sea, with at least 91 turbines standing up to 335 metres high, located within 6 miles of Colonsay, 10 miles of Islay, and 13 miles of Mull and Iona. To put this into perspective, each turbine would stand taller than the Eiffel Tower. Imagine 91 Eiffel Towers dominating your horizon.  More details of the development are available on our FAQ page(opens in new tab).

This is not about energy generation.  Currently energy companies receive approximately £1.4 billion per year to turn off wind turbines in Scotland and crank up polluting gas power stations closer to major cities south of the border when the power produced by our wind farms cannot be transmitted by our failing grid. Island communities will not receive cheaper electricity, community benefits won’t be confirmed until after approval is given, livelihoods may be destroyed and the long-term visual impact will remain long after the profits have gone into the pockets of Iberdola’s shareholders.

Renewable energy matters. 

But fragile and unique communities matter too.

The money will not stay in the Hebrides.  The damage will.