Scout Moor Wind Farm Expansion Plans Reignite Decades-Long Debate

For nearly two decades, residents in communities bordering the moorland between Greater Manchester and Lancashire have expressed strong opposition to proposals for a large wind farm. The initial Scout Moor Wind Farm saw the installation of twenty-six turbines in a rural area connecting Rochdale and Rossendale in 2008. While campaigners from Rochdale, Edenfield, and Rawtenstall successfully halted plans for additional turbines in 2011, they are now confronted with a new proposal from Cubico to expand the site, potentially creating England’s largest onshore wind farm. Rochdale councillor James Gartside noted that there has been “strong opposition” to previous expansion efforts, though the energy company asserts that the current project would provide advantages to the local community. This latest proposal, named Scout Moor II, involves the construction of 21 taller turbines. These turbines would be situated in an area to the east of the existing installation and are projected by the company to collectively generate up to 100 MW, sufficient to power as many as 100,000 homes. For residents of Norden, located directly south of the existing wind farm, the prospect of another planning dispute brings back memories of past campaigns. Mr. Gartside, who has represented the village on the edge of the moors since the 1980s, stated his uncertainty regarding the community’s reaction this time. He was among those who opposed the original Scout Moor plans put forth by north-west property giant Peel, alongside environmental campaigner David Bellamy. Their concerns centered on the potential environmental impact on the area’s peatlands, a well-known beauty spot. Despite their efforts, permission was granted in 2005, and construction commenced in 2007. However, when Peel and United Utilities later submitted plans in 2011 to double the wind farm’s size, campaigners successfully prevented their progression. “The opposition was still just as strong the second time around,” Mr. Gartside remarked, adding, “We managed to get that one stopped though.” Subsequent proposals to increase the number of turbines at Scout Moor did not advance, primarily due to a de facto ban on onshore wind farms implemented by the former Conservative government nine years ago. This ban has since been relaxed, meaning Scout Moor II could become the first significant development of its kind in England since the initial expansion plans were set aside. A spokesperson for Cubico indicated that the proposed new wind farm would operate independently from the current Scout Moor site. The firm estimates that, if planning permission is secured, the project could be operational before 2030 and claims it could generate an estimated £200m in investment and create hundreds of jobs. According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, a consultation with residents will precede any consideration of planning permission. This consultation will focus on the dimensions and scope of the 21 new turbines, slated for construction on the eastern moorlands. Councillors representing Norden expressed collective satisfaction with Cubico’s proactive approach in engaging with residents. While Mr. Gartside stated, “I would rather not have them,” he also emphasized that if the turbines are built, the community should benefit. Cubico has put forward a proposal for a £20m community wealth fund, intended for initiatives supporting the cost of living, enhancing green spaces, and providing business support. The company has invited public input on how these funds could be utilized. James Pinney, Cubico’s head of northern Europe, articulated the firm’s desire to collaborate with local communities to shape the project, aiming to deliver “positive, economic and environmental benefits for all.” The plans are expected to be formally submitted following a comprehensive public consultation in 2025.