Campaigners opposing the proposed Hope Moor Wind Farm have launched an appeal to fund expert help to fight the scheme.
The Hope Moor Wind Farm Action Group has launched a GoFundMe page as it prepares to challenge the planning application, saying it wants to ensure the proposal receives “the thorough scrutiny it deserves”.
Almost £1,000 has been donated so far to fight Fred. Olsen Renewables’ plans for 23 turbines on moorland between Arkengarthdale and Teesdale.
The appeal aims to raise £10,000 in total.
Suzy Wilson, spokesperson for the group, said: “As the campaign enters its next phase, we have launched our GoFundMe campaign to help ensure that the Hope Moor Wind Farm proposal receives the thorough scrutiny it deserves.
“Taking on a major infrastructure project is a huge undertaking for a community group, and we want to make sure we have the resources needed to challenge this development effectively.”
She said money raised from the appeal will be used to commission independent planning, environmental and technical advice.
It will also fund public information events, campaign literature, website costs and communications.
The group said it was keen to ensure local communities had access to trusted information throughout the planning process and that the campaign had the resources to respond effectively to the application.
Campaigners are also urging people to support the campaign by sharing information, volunteering or helping raise awareness among family, friends and neighbours.
The fundraising appeal comes as opposition continues to build to the proposed wind farm, with campaigners arguing that the moorland on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales was the wrong place for the energy scheme.
The group said it supported efforts to tackle climate change but believed there were more appropriate locations for industrial-scale renewable energy projects.
Mrs Wilson has thanked supporters of the campaign, with every member of the group giving their time voluntarily so far.
She added: “We are incredibly grateful that a growing number of independent experts and groups are generously donating their knowledge and professional expertise to support the campaign.
“Their commitment is invaluable and gives our community the strongest possible chance of stopping this development.
“Together we can show that tackling climate change should never come at the expense of nature.”
The developer says the wind farm could generate enough renewable energy to power around 135,000 homes and businesses.
For more information on the appeal, visit www.gofundme.com/f/prevent-the-inappropriate-industrialisation-of-our-moorlands
