Campaign group formed to oppose Yorkshire Dales wind farm plans

A campaign group has been formed to oppose plans for a major wind farm on the outskirts of the Yorkshire Dales.

If approved, 20 turbines, about 200m (656ft) high, would be built near Stang Forest between Arkengarthdale and Teesdale.

Residents said they had set up the Hope Moor Wind Farm Action Group to “save the wildlife corridor and protect the skyline” from green energy development.

A spokesman for the wind farm project said feedback from people living in nearby areas was “central to our approach”.

Members of the action group said the wind farm would be visible from 75 miles (120 km) away and would be visible from West Yorkshire, Teesside, Tyneside and the Lake District.

Fred Olsen Renewables, which submitted the proposal, said the Hope Moor wind farm would generate enough energy to power 81,000 homes and businesses.

The statement said consultation will take place throughout 2026, ahead of an application being submitted in 2027.

The action group said the proposed development would damage the landscape, which is home to numerous rare and protected birds.

It says peatlands are vital for storing carbon and helping meet the country's climate goals.

According to the activist group, there are more than 400 members on social media. Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Susie Wilson, a spokeswoman for the group, said: “While the group supports renewable energy as a vital tool in the fight against climate change, it strongly opposes developments that cause irreversible damage to environmentally sensitive habitats, peatlands and ancient woodlands.

“The proposed site is thriving and forms a critical wildlife haven for biodiversity.”

She added: “Planning for the site has been ongoing for over a year but there has been a clear lack of engagement regarding proposals.”

Kelly Wyness, senior project manager for the Hope Moor wind farm, said more information would be provided at a public consultation in early 2026.

He added: “We recognize the importance and value of full engagement with communities, but we want everyone to have all the information they need to make up their minds.

“Listening to and learning from local people is a central part of our approach. Because we are a family business, this is ingrained in everything we do.”