GONHS has noted the recent report of a private entity having filed with Town Planning a proposal to build wind turbines at Lathbury Sports Complex. The group welcomes in principle the adoption of renewable energy in Gibraltar, but says their position has always been that the Rock’s wildlife and unique landscape must be safeguarded.

A statement from GONHS follows below:

GONHS notes the recent report of a private entity having filed with Town Planning a proposal to build wind turbines at Lathbury Sports Complex.

The proposal is for vertical axis turbines, and these are stated to be much less harmful to wildlife than horizontal ones.

GONHS welcomes in principle the adoption of renewable energy in Gibraltar, but our position has always been that the Rock’s wildlife and unique landscape must be safeguarded.

Whilst vertical axis turbines may be less harmful to wildlife, hazards are still known to occur.  Any risk of death to flying animals must be deemed unacceptable where a site is very important for migrating birds - particularly birds of prey - and foraging bats, local populations of which have already experienced very worrying declines.  Both groups of animals are protected by international conventions that Gibraltar is a party to, and Gibraltar is of global importance for migrating birds of prey.

GONHS encourages the continued exploration of renewable energy options for Gibraltar, but opposes those that would have negative impacts on the environment, not least on species of international concern.