Plans submitted to extend Scout Moor Windfarm

Scout Moor Wind Farm

A planning application has been submitted to both Rochdale and Rossendale councils to build 16 new turbines at Scout Moor Wind farm.

Scout Moor Wind Farm Expansion Limited (SMWFEL), a joint venture between Peel Energy and Untied Utilities, has submitted the plans in a hope to extend the existing wind farm.

Currently, there are 26 working turbines on the wind farm, which is located above Rochdale and Heywood.

Jon England, from Peel Energy, said: "If approved, the expansion of Scout Moor Wind Farm will create a wind farm that will sustainably generate enough electricity to power more than 20,000 homes, whilst at the same time protecting and improving the local environment.

"There have always been good reasons for expanding the existing wind farm, such as a proven track-record of high energy output and the fact that we have an existing point of access.

“The expansion also presents an opportunity to build on our relationships with surrounding communities, providing much needed funding for a range of initiatives and using the wind farm as a valuable resource for recreation and education.

"The expansion would also mean the restoration of around 900 hectares of peat moorland, which has become badly degraded due to a combination of wildfire and over-grazing of sheep.”

Scout Moor wind farm opened in 2008, to much local opposition, and is already the second largest on shore wind farm in the country.