Community Opinion Survey Delivers Resounding Verdict

The first ever community survey of west Lewis residents on the proposed Spiorad na Mara (N4) nearshore wind farm has delivered a resounding verdict: 88% say “NO”.

Respondents from Uig to Ness (the closest areas to the proposed development) cited the turbines' unprecedented scale and proximity to shore, threats to seabirds and marine life, destruction of Gaelic culture and community, damage to peatland and machair, and the absence of any significant benefit to islanders.

"Too close, too big and too many. We don't want this, we weren't asked."

"N4 would devastate the West Side of Lewis, further weakening Gaelic in its remaining communities of native speakers."

"Nowhere else in the UK are there turbines so large and so close to the land."

"Generation after generation of Gaels have had to fight similar exploitative developments."

“You’re taking away something from Islanders that can never be replaced.”

“Building N4 will be disastrous for wildlife, tourism and the people who lived here for generations.”

“Chan eil iad ag èisteachd rinn.”

88% of people who would live with this industrial development on their doorstep have very real concerns. Their voices must be heard.

Click here to view the full survey results and hundreds of comments received.

Formal objections to the Section 36 application should be submitted to the Marine Directorate at MD.MarineRenewables@gov.scot by 7th May 2026.

The Eilean Mo Ghaoil team are working on an objection template highlighting the key reasons why Scottish Ministers cannot, in good faith, approve this application.

As soon as it’s ready, the template will be shared on the Eilean Mo Ghaoil website, Facebook and Instagram.

Follow us on these platforms to be notified when the template is available.