Wind farm would 'blight forever' famous landscape

Keighley MP Robbie Moore introduced a Parliamentary debate considering the impact the development could have on 2,300 hectares of protected peatland.

He argued the case against the proposed Calderdale Energy Park, which would see up to 34 wind turbines installed on Walshaw Moor.

Statutory public consultation on the proposals runs until June 10.

Those behind the scheme argue the site is in an area identified for generating on-shore wind power, and would deliver “reliable, home-grown renewable energy, helping to reduce energy costs, support local jobs and strengthen energy security”.

But Mr Moore said this would come at a price, to protected peatland and landscape important for its cultural heritage.

He said: “Understandably, our much-loved Brontë Society is firmly against the proposed wind farm across our heritage landscape, which encompasses Top Withens – believed to be the inspiration for the setting of Wuthering Heights.

“That landscape, I might add, has a live application worked up right now for UNESCO world heritage status, along with listed status for Top Withens.

“If this wind farm goes ahead, the landscape will be blighted forever.

“We know that because – even after the decommissioning stage of the wind farm – none of the infrastructure is proposed to be removed, apart from the turbines themselves."

Shipley Labour MP Anna Dixon also took part in the debate, and said she'd been contacted about the proposals by constituents.

“They rightly believe that protected peatland should be protected," she said.

“I agree with them, and I think that the Labour Government – and I hope the minister – will give the same assurance.

“I urge the Government to listen to the arguments made in this debate.

“There could clearly be major negative impacts on our precious peatlands in this area of Yorkshire.”

Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade Chris McDonald, responding for the Government, said: “From the contributions we have heard today, I would say there is strong agreement in this room on the need both to tackle climate change and to care for our special environments in the UK, including peatland."

Mr McDonald said the Government was committed to publishing additional guidance regarding wind farm construction on peatland in England.

Also, discussions were ongoing with the Scottish Government about developing a 'carbon calculator' tool for England similar to one currently used in Scotland.