Proposals for a new wind farm have been announced in Teesdale – but local voices may go unheard as the plan is debated.
Hope Moor Wind Farm is planned for a plot of land up on Barningham Moor, close to Stang Forest. Developer Fred. Olsen Renewables, which is behind the project, is seeking to build up to 20 turbines with a tip height of up to 200m on an 1,100 hectare stretch of open moorland.
The developer anticipates 100MW of renewable energy – sufficient to power a town the size of Middlesbrough – while creating jobs in the area.
In a letter to Cllr Richard Bell, the company also pledges to support existing and tenants and communities to benefit from the project” based on feedback during the consultation process.
However, in the late 1990s, a similar windfarm proposal for Barningham High Moor was fiercely opposed by Teesdale residents. The plans for 25 turbines were eventually halted by the High Court in a landmark ruling.
Cllr Bell, who represents Upper Teesdale, recalled that successful campaign – spearheaded by the late Elizabeth Mann – but cautioned that attitudes in central government have changed.
“The Government is much keener on [wind farms] now and there is a lot of money to be made,” he told the Mercury. “The developers are guaranteed to get the same unit price as the most expensive rival fuel source, be that gas, nuclear, etc.”
Fred. Olsen Renewables notified Cllr Bell that the plans would be considered as a nationally significant infrastructure project. As such, any application would be considered by the planning directorate and decided by the Secretary of State.
Although the proposed site straddles the border between Durham and North Yorkshire, both councils would be regarded as host authorities. This is described as an important role but one that lacks powers to make a decision.
“This is like the A66 dualling and junction changes,” Cllr Bell explained. “The council can offer an opinion but has no role in the decisions.
“I will represent local views. I’ll be asking for a briefing and meeting with DCC officers. This is in the very early stages, but I am sure it will generate a lot of comment.”
Residents can contact Cllr Bell with their views on the proposal by email to [email protected].
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