1. Why is the windfarm so close to the coast?

At its closest point to Tiree, the Argyll Array site boundary is 5km from the island. 0 - 8km is the distance from shore at which the DTI's report (referred to in the Scoping document) identified there being a high visual impact from offshore windfarms. However, as well as visual effects there are a number of other technical and environmental constraints which determine the potential location for an offshore windfarm. One of the most significant of the technical constraints is, for example, seabed depth. Turbine and foundation technology cannot currently cope with very deep waters. Demonstration projects into new foundations are seeking to increase capability. This range of considerations (technical, environmental and social, including visual) has determined the current boundaries of the proposal, within which SPR will seek to locate turbines. The 5km boundary represents the closest point at which the turbines could be located to the island. SPR are not considering moving the boundaries of the offshore windfarm. As outlined in the Scoping document, SPR will carry out a full Landscape and Seascape Visual Impacts Assessment (LSVIA), to determine the detailed visual effects of the project. This will include photomontages of the likely view from the island. These are not yet available, but the community on Tiree will be consulted fully on these when completed. The LSVIA will be included in the Environmental Statement for the project. This will be a public document, and will be available for the general public to view and offer comment upon.