Proposal Submitted for England’s Largest Onshore Wind Farm

A proposal has been lodged for what could become England’s most extensive onshore wind farm, coinciding with the lifting of a de facto prohibition on such developments. Cubico Sustainable Investments intends to construct turbines on moorland adjacent to the current Scout Moor facility, situated between Rochdale, Greater Manchester, and Rossendale, Lancashire. Should Rossendale and Rochdale councils grant approval, the 100 megawatt Scout Moor II project would mark the nation’s inaugural onshore wind farm in ten years. This submission follows the Labour government’s decision to remove the de facto prohibition on new onshore wind farms, which had been instituted by the preceding Conservative government nine years prior. With the ban now rescinded, the developers anticipate the project’s approval, stating it is projected to supply electricity to more than 100,000 residences and fulfill approximately 10% of Greater Manchester’s household energy requirements. Cubico further indicated that Scout Moor II is expected to commence operations by 2030, potentially attracting an estimated £200m in investment and creating hundreds of skilled green jobs throughout its operational lifespan. The application also includes Cubico’s proposals for a community wealth fund and a moorland restoration and management strategy, aimed at bolstering local endeavors and fostering biodiversity within the region. David Swindin, Cubico’s chief executive officer, commented: “Our proposal for Scout Moor II reflects our strong confidence in the UK renewables sector and Britain’s potential to become a global clean energy powerhouse.” In the mid-2010s, Peel Wind Power put forward an earlier plan to increase the number of turbines at the Scout Moor site. Although this initiative received backing from Rossendale and Rochdale councils, it was ultimately rejected by the Secretary of State at the time, subsequent to a public inquiry. Reporting was also contributed by Bill Jacobs, from the Local Democracy Reporting Service.