Rishi Sunak has voiced opposition to controversial plans for a major wind farm development on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park.
Proposals for The Hope Moor Wind Farm would see 23 turbines up to 200 metres high built on moorland between Richmond and Teesdale south of Stang Forest.
The former Prime Minister says this poses a serious threat to the landscape.
The scheme is being promoted by Fred. Olsen Renewables, which says the development could generate enough renewable energy to power around 135,000 homes and businesses.
However, speaking as the project’s first public consultation opens this week, Mr Sunak said the turbines would have a major visual impact across Swaledale, Wensleydale and surrounding areas.
He said: “The application site lies just outside the northern boundary of the Yorkshire Dales National Park but its visual impact on the landscape of Swaledale, Wensleydale and further afield will be very, very obvious.
“We have just opened the Coast to Coast Walk as one of the UK’s National Trails – a celebration of what makes this part of the world so special.
“After more than ten years of campaigning for that to happen, I cannot support a plan which will lead to the views from many parts of the trail – some of the most beautiful – being spoilt in this way.”
Mr Sunak also raised concerns over the potential impact on peatland habitats, warning that construction work associated with the turbines, roads and infrastructure could damage an important natural carbon store.
“I have seen wonderful work in our area to protect and restore peatland,” he said.
“It is a unique resource, locking up huge volumes of carbon and playing an increasingly important role in water management. Healthy peat acts as a natural sponge, absorbing water to reduce flood risk to communities in the lowlands.”
The Richmond and Northallerton MP also pointed to a previous wind farm proposal for the same moorland, involving 54-metre-high turbines, which was rejected following a High Court challenge in 1999.
At the time, a planning inspector concluded the “special character” of the area would be “seriously harmed”.
The first stage of consultation on the Hope Moor proposals runs until June 30, with residents able to provide feedback online, by email or by post.
Power 135K homes
An eight-week consultation on the proposed Hope Moor Wind Farm scheme has begun.
Developers say could generate enough green energy to power around 135,000 homes.
Residents, businesses and community groups are being invited to view the plans for the scheme and provide feedback before the scheme progresses further.
The company adds that the project would play an important role in supporting the UK’s climate targets and strengthening long-term energy security, while also bringing investment and environmental improvements to the local area.
The Hope Moor Wind Farm Action Group, which was formed to fight the plans, has also urged the public to take part in the consultation.
A spokesperson said: “Our primary purpose is to save the Yorkshire Dales landscape from this devastating industrialisation.
“The proposal would turn this wildlife haven into a massive energy park on valuable peatland and these towering structures would dominate views for miles around.”
