The Duke of Norfolk has criticised plans to build a wind farm on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales.
Edward Fitzalan-Howard said the Hope Moor Wind Farm scheme would be a “blot on the landscape of one of the most beautiful and cherished parts of England”.
The country’s most senior non-royal duke, who organised the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II and the coronation of King Charles III, said he was also concerned the green energy scheme would release more carbon dioxide into the atmosphere than it would save.
Fred. Olsen Renewables (FORL) is drawing up plans for 23 turbines up to 200 metres high on moorland between Arkengarthdale and Teesdale.
The company says the development could generate enough renewable energy to power around 135,000 homes and businesses.
But the Duke of Norfolk, who owns the neighbouring West Arkengarthdale estate, said he was “extremely concerned” about the plans.
He said: “This development will sit right on the edge of the Dales National Park and be visible for miles around both from within the park and alongside.
“It will be a blot on the landscape to one of the most beautiful and cherished parts of England enjoyed by tens of thousands of visitors each year.”
He added: “More importantly, it will also threaten many red-listed bird species of national concern and it will be built on peat moorland, releasing large amounts of carbon which has been stored in the ground for thousands of years.
“Taking into account the build program, deep foundations, access roads, electricity link up and most importantly the removal and restoration plans at the end of the life of the wind farm, I am concerned this scheme will release more carbon into the atmosphere than it will save.”
The duke said he urged FORL to “leave this precious site well alone” and instead focus on other locations which were far more suitable for development.
The peer has given his backing to the Hope Moor Wind Farm Action Group, which was formed to fight the plans.
Suzy Wilson, spokesperson for the action group, thanked the duke for his support.
She said: “We wholeheartedly welcome the Duke of Norfolk’s emphatic support and endorsement of our environmental campaign to protect Barningham and Holgate and East Arkengarthdale moors.
“It comes as no surprise that we are aligned to save the natural heritage of this beautiful wildlife haven, which has been nurtured for centuries and is thriving.
“People of all backgrounds understand the significance of not disturbing this highly valued natural peatland resource that is a critical backbone to our country and for the climate and the planet.”
She added: “The proposal to build an industrial energy park of such an unprecedented scale on this inaccessible wildlife haven is simply the industrialisation of a precious landscape which cannot be justified under any circumstances.
“It is with much gratitude that we go forward alongside the Duke of Norfolk.”
In response, Euan Hutchison, UK development director for FORL, said the company welcomed feedback and encouraged anyone with an interest in the Hope Moor proposals to share their views.
He added: “Hope Moor is still at an early stage, and no final design has been set. We recognise the site’s sensitivities and will reflect these as plans develop.
“It has been selected through a rigorous process, and its strong, consistent wind speeds make it well suited to renewable energy – helping reduce emissions and strengthen energy security.
“Peat is a key consideration. Early surveys indicate that much of the site is relatively shallow, with over half comprising organic-rich soils rather than deep peat. Further work will help inform a design that avoids sensitive areas, minimises impacts, and creates opportunities for long-term peatland restoration.
“Overall, the carbon savings from a wind farm significantly outweigh construction emissions, particularly with careful design and effective peatland management. A detailed carbon balance assessment will be included in our application.”
The developer’s remaining public consultation events will be held at Newsham Village Hall, Thursday, June 4, from 3pm to 8pm, and Reeth Memorial Hall on Saturday, June 6, from 10am to 3pm.
More information is also available at hopemoor.co.uk
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