Up to 28 turbines could be built

A newly-created company, Edinbane Estate Wind Farm Company Ltd, will see shares divided equally between estate owner Ruairaidh Hilleary and local tenants.

Under the 1976 Crofting Reform Act, crofters are entitled to 50% of the development potential of the land.

Mr Hilleary said: "Certainly it would be a very nice bit of income for the township.

"The company will have the shares issued to the crofter, and tied to the croft."

Mr Hilleary said he was uncertain of the precise amount each crofter would receive but added that he hoped to sign an option agreement and a lease "fairly shortly".

'Good location'

It is now hoped to have a decision from planners at the end of June. The wind farm could be operational by the end of 2003.

Around 30 jobs are expected to be created during the year-long construction phase.

David Still, general manager of Amec, said: "It's a pretty good location - it's fairly well obscured.

"If we get a decision in June or July, then we will be looking to get construction contracts signed by the end of the year.

"It will be of benefit to the local community - they wanted to do it as part of their overall plan."