Residents have formed a campaign group to fight the “inappropriate industrialisation” they claim would be caused by a large wind farm planned for moorland on the edge of Teesdale.
Hope Moor Wind Farm Action Group was launched in response to Fred. Olsen Renewables’ proposal to build about 20 200m high turbines, plus infrastructure, near Stang Forest, between Arkengarthdale and Teesdale.
The group said it aimed to save the wildlife corridor and protect the skyline from the green energy plan which would be visible from 120km – as far as West Yorkshire, Teesside, Tyneside and the Lake District.
They claim the development would damage a cherished landscape which is home to rare and protected birds, including ring ouzel, black grouse, curlews, hen harriers and merlin.
As well as archaeological monuments on the moorland, the group said the peatland was vital for storing carbon and helping achieve the country’s climate change goals.
The action group, launched last month, has more than 400 members on social media.
Suzy Wilson, spokesperson, said: “While the group supports renewable energy as a vital tool in combating climate change, it strongly opposes developments that cause irreversible damage to ecologically sensitive habitats, peatlands and ancient woodlands.
“The proposed site is thriving and forms a critical wildlife haven essential for biodiversity.
“Planning has been ongoing for over a year but there was a clear lack of engagement regarding the proposals. Communities became aware of the proposals by chance.
“We want everyone to be aware both locally and nationally. We feel very strongly that the public voice should and must be heard.”
The group said it was ironic that an application in 2015 for a single 36.6m wind turbine near Newsham was opposed by members of the Milbank family, which through the Barningham and Holgate Estates owns some of the moorland now earmarked for the Hope Moor project, on the grounds that it would be “inappropriate” and “an eyesore”.
A previous wind farm application submitted in the 1990s for 25 wind turbines, later amended to 12 turbines, was eventually rejected at the High Court amid fierce opposition from local residents.
Kelly Wyness, senior project manager for Hope Moor Wind Farm, said public consultation for the scheme opens in early 2026.
“We recognise the importance and value of fully engaging with communities,” he said, “but we want everyone to have all the necessary information to determine their opinion. Listening to and learning from local people is central to our approach.
“Our decades-long commitment and track record of working with communities demonstrates this. We are excited to hear how our plans can support the environment and communities.”
The Milbank family declined to comment.
For more details on the action group, find them on Facebook or email contact@hopemooraction.org.uk
