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A campaign group has been established to contest proposals for a substantial wind farm development near the Yorkshire Dales.
The project, if approved, would involve the construction of 20 turbines, each approximately 200m (656ft) tall, in the vicinity of Stang Forest, between Arkengarthdale and Teesdale.
Residents have stated that they created the Hope Moor Wind Farm Action Group to “preserve the wildlife corridor and maintain the integrity of the skyline” against the proposed green energy initiative.
A spokesperson for the wind farm project affirmed that feedback from residents in the surrounding areas is “central to our approach”.
Members of the action group claim the wind farm would be visible from as far as 75 miles (120km) away, including areas in West Yorkshire, Teesside, Tyneside, and the Lake District.
Fred Olsen Renewables, the company behind the proposal, indicates that the Hope Moor Wind Farm could generate enough energy to power 81,000 homes and businesses.
The company stated that consultations will be conducted throughout 2026, with the submission of a formal application anticipated in 2027.
The action group asserts that the proposed development would adversely affect a landscape that is home to numerous rare and protected bird species.
They also highlight the importance of the peatland in the area for carbon storage, crucial for achieving the nation’s climate objectives.
The action group has garnered over 400 members on social media, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.
Suzy Wilson, a spokesperson for the group, stated: “While the group recognizes renewable energy as a vital component in addressing climate change, it strongly opposes developments that inflict irreversible harm on ecologically sensitive habitats, peatlands, and ancient woodlands.”
She added: “The proposed site is thriving and serves as a crucial wildlife sanctuary essential for biodiversity.”
“Planning for the site has been ongoing for over a year, but there was a clear lack of engagement regarding the proposals.” Wilson added.
Kelly Wyness, Senior Project Manager for the Hope Moor Wind Farm, said further details would be shared in a public consultation opening in early 2026.
He also stated: “We recognize the importance and value of fully engaging with communities, but we want to ensure that everyone has all the necessary information available to determine their opinion.”
“Listening to and learning from local people is central to our approach. As a family-run business, this is entrenched in everything we do.”
Listen to highlights from North Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North.
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