Businessman Donald Trump has formed an unlikely friendship with the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds. The two have previously been against each other over the building of Trumps golf resort.
But the pair has buried their differences to show a united front against the plans for wind turbines. The American tycoon and the RSPB claim that the 11 turbines in Aberdeen Bay will destroy the environment, and that it’s an irresponsible project.
Trump and the RSPB have previously been on opposite sides of the fence over Trumps proposals to build a £750million golf resort.
However standing together, they are both against Marine Scotland’s plans to build 640ft structures built along the coast – which will be viewed from the golf resort.
The RSPB argues that the turbines could damage rare birds like the common scoter and red-throated diver.
Ian Francis, RSPB Scotland area manager for north-east Scotland, said: ‘From an early stage, we have held many discussions with the developers, and we acknowledge the efforts they have made to reduce its scale and change the layout of the turbines, which has helped.
‘However, more planning, research and monitoring is needed to ensure we truly understand the impact this site may have on local birds.
‘The bay is an important area for many species. Since this is a European-funded test centre, it is crucial that a thorough research programme is developed to help understand how this and the many forthcoming offshore wind farms can reduce their impacts on birds and other marine wildlife.’
