Mast Installation Marks Major Step Forward for Large Onshore Wind Farm
A towering 91-metre tall meteorological mast is set to be erected on moorland north of Manchester later this month, a critical milestone in the contentious development of Scout Moor II, potentially England's biggest onshore wind farm.
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The mast, which collects detailed wind and weather data, was given the green light by Rossendale Borough Council last June. Its role is pivotal in informing the final design of the project. Once the data is collected over the next few years, it will aid Cubico Sustainable Investments in securing funding for the wind farm, with the aim of it being operational by 2030.
Scout Moor II, tabled by Cubico, envisions the construction of 17 new wind turbines, standing up to 180 metres tall, on peatland between Rochdale, Edenfield, and Rawtenstall. The project is touted to generate up to 100 megawatts of clean electricity – enough to power around 100,000 homes annually. Moreover, it promises one of the largest moorland restoration schemes in northern England and a £20 million Community Wealth Fund to support local priorities.
However, the project has already drawn fierce opposition from local objectors and campaign group 'Say NO to Scout Moor 2'. They argue that the turbines will not produce as much electricity as claimed, the peatland will be irreparably damaged, there will be no community benefits through job creation, and the development will dominate the skyline.
The mast installation will take place between September 15th and 18th, with access via Rooley Moor Road, which is set to remain open to walkers, cyclists, and horse riders throughout the period. Although a temporary structure, the mast will remain in place for up to three years, or removed sooner if sufficient data is collected.
Before the actual wind farm development can proceed, planning permission would be required, undoubtedly a contentious battle with local campaigners poised to vigorously oppose the project.
Scout Moor II, tabled by Cubico, envisions the construction of 17 new wind turbines, standing up to 180 metres tall, on peatland between Rochdale, Edenfield, and Rawtenstall. The project is touted to generate up to 100 megawatts of clean electricity – enough to power around 100,000 homes annually. Moreover, it promises one of the largest moorland restoration schemes in northern England and a £20 million Community Wealth Fund to support local priorities.
However, the project has already drawn fierce opposition from local objectors and campaign group 'Say NO to Scout Moor 2'. They argue that the turbines will not produce as much electricity as claimed, the peatland will be irreparably damaged, there will be no community benefits through job creation, and the development will dominate the skyline.
The mast installation will take place between September 15th and 18th, with access via Rooley Moor Road, which is set to remain open to walkers, cyclists, and horse riders throughout the period. Although a temporary structure, the mast will remain in place for up to three years, or removed sooner if sufficient data is collected.
Before the actual wind farm development can proceed, planning permission would be required, undoubtedly a contentious battle with local campaigners poised to vigorously oppose the project.
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