Application Submitted for Hydroelectric Plant at Yorkshire Dales Reservoir

An application for listed building consent has been submitted concerning plans to build a hydroelectric power facility at a reservoir located in the Yorkshire Dales. Ellegreen Hydro previously secured planning permission for this facility, which is planned for Winterburn Reservoir in Malhamdale. According to the company, the completed plant is projected to produce sufficient energy to supply approximately 140 residences. This recent application, submitted to the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, aims to address any potential effects on the historical elements of the 19th-century reservoir, despite Ellergreen stating uncertainty regarding the necessity of listed building consent. Winterburn Reservoir was built from 1885 to 1893 with the purpose of regulating water levels for the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. The location continues to serve the function of sustaining canal water levels through its discharge into the River Aire. Ellergreen Hydro indicated that the facility’s construction would occur on the reservoir’s outfall. The listed building consent request specifically pertains to the wave wall, which includes a valve tower and bridge, as well as the water ladder, low-level outlet, weir, and gauging house. Although acknowledging that the consent might not be required, the company described its application as “prudent,” as reported by the Local Democracy Reporting Service. In its application, the firm asserted that the plant would have minimal impact on the surrounding area. “The ability of the technology components to be buried, hidden by natural features, and blended into the local landscape by the use of stonework and timber cladding results in schemes that have a very minor visual footprint. The scheme will barely be visible unless in its immediate vicinity.” A specific date for the consideration of this application has not yet been established.