FAMILIES are being invited along to a fun day later this month to celebrate the completion of work on a new Ayrshire wind farm.

Bouncy castles, bubble football and a climbing tower will be amongst the attractions at an event to mark the inauguration of the South Kyle wind farm.

Taking place at Doon Academy Campus in Dalmellington, the free event, organised by Vattenfall, the renewable energy company behind the wind farm, will also include food and refreshments, local stalls and live music including performances from Dalmellington Band.

Free ‘preview’ coach tours will also be running from the fun day to the wind farm throughout the day, giving local people a chance to see the turbines up close before they become fully operational.

Paul Nickless, project director for the wind farm, said: “With construction nearing completion, the fun day will be an opportunity for local people to be part of our inauguration celebrations, and for Vattenfall to say thank you to our neighbouring communities for their questions, feedback and participation in this project over the past three years.

“Doon Academy Campus provides a great, central location for our family fun day activities, and the coach tours mean local people can enjoy a ‘preview’ visit and see the wind farm up close.”

With capacity to power around 170,000 homes, South Kyle is one of Scotland’s largest wind farms.

Construction began in 2020, and the last of its 50 turbines was installed in April of this year.

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Final testing, energisation and restoration work is now under way, and the wind farm is expected to be fully commissioned later this summer.

The commissioning will trigger the launch of the £38 million South Kyle Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund for Carsphairn, Dalmellington, New Cumnock and Patna.

The fun day place on Saturday, June 24, from 11am to 3pm at Doon Academy, Ayr Road, Dalmellington.

Entry is free, as are all activities, some refreshments and coach tours to the wind farm.

Activities at the Doon Academy location include:

  • Bouncy castle, assault course, soft play, bubble football and climbing tower
  • Craft tables and face-painting
  • Refreshments provided by East Ayrshire Catering in School Lunch Hall
  • Stalls and displays provided by local groups and organisations
  • Music and Entertainment including Dalmellington Band
  • Food and Slushie Vans

Shuttle coaches to the wind farm will depart from, and return to, Doon Academy Campus only, and passengers will be required to adhere to health and safety regulations at all times.

To avoid disappointment, those wishing to go on a bus tour are being asked to wear sturdy, covered footwear and bring warm clothing. All under 16s on the tours must be accompanied by an adult.

Keep an eye on www.vattenfall.co.uk/southkyle and social media for further details.