Opponents of a large wind farm proposed for the edge of the Yorkshire Dales have vowed to “create as much noise as possible” to get their views heard.
More than 100 people attended a public meeting in Newsham village hall this week to discuss Hope Moor Wind Farm, which is planned for moorland near the Stang Forest, between Arkengarthdale and Teesdale.
The proposals by Fred. Olsen Renewables could see 20 200m high turbines, plus associated infrastructure, built on the remote site.
The meeting was chaired by North Yorkshire councillor Angus Thompson, who represents the North Richmondshire division.
He said: “There was a very good turnout with a lot of people up in arms about this.
“We’re going to create as much noise as possible because there’s a feeling that local people will not be listened to during the process.
“I think we must protect this area, not just for our benefit, but for the benefit of future generations.”
Various concerns were raised at the meeting, including the size of the proposed turbines, potential damage to the peatland from tonnes of concrete, the threat to wildlife and fears that local voices would not be heard because the application would be assessed by the national Planning Inspectorate rather than local councillors.
A petition against the wind farm has been started by the Hope Moor Wind Farm Action Group, which was formed to oppose the scheme.
Suzy Wilson, spokesperson for the group, said members were encouraged by the turnout.
She added: “This peatland, this thriving, beautiful, wildlife haven, home to many red and amber bird species for centuries and archaeological treasures, does not need to be sacrificed for electricity to power 80,000 homes.
“The UK is one of the few countries in the world to have such a natural gift, it needs to be respected as it is priceless.”
Mrs Wilson said changes to the planning system made in the Planning and Infrastructure Act 2025 had “tried to take away the meaningful voice of the communities” and had “made a mockery of all the stewardship grants invested in this land”.
But she added: “This week’s public meeting showed that communities will be heard — we will fight back.
“Considering the deep restored peatland, the character landscape, the unique, varied ecology, it will make a precedent for wind turbines at this scale to go anywhere, if this gets approved.”
Fred. Olsen Renewables said it was at an early stage in developing its proposals, with the first public consultation exercise due to start in the spring.
Kelly Wyness, senior project manager, added: “From the outset, we’ve been conscious of its sensitivities and as with our projects in Scotland, Hope Moor would deliver new renewable power, support local jobs and skills, and provide funding for moorland and environmental stewardship, cultural heritage and local communities.
“Community engagement is central to how we develop our projects, and we want to involve people early and meaningfully. As we move forward, we’ll be actively engaging with local stakeholders and residents to listen to views and understand priorities.”
For more information on the wind farm proposals, visit hopemoor.co.uk
To contact Hope Moor Wind Farm Action Group, find them on Facebook or email contact@hopemooraction.org.uk
Milliband destroying our heritage for nothing more than ideology .