Proposals for Scout Moor II – which would be England's largest onshore windfarm – have been formally lodged.
The wind energy site, situated on the South Pennine Moors above Rossendale, would involve constructing 17 additional wind turbines, supplying approximately 100,000 homes annually.
Energy chiefs claim the volume of power produced could supply some 77 per cent of all properties in Rossendale and Rochdale together. They have also committed to funding a £20m community prosperity fund to offer at least£600,000 annually for neighbourhood initiatives.
Scout Moor lies between Edenfield, Rochdale and Rawtenstall and currently houses 26 wind turbines. The new wind installation would feature larger, more efficient turbines, with capacity to produce more power than any other mainland wind facility in Britain.
Developers Cubico claim these proposals will assist the nation in achieving its environmental targets, decrease dependence on foreign energy, and "unlock the full potential of homegrown renewables", reports .
The scheme has attracted opposition from campaign organisation 'Say NO to Scout Moor 2'. They say these fresh turbines will be taller than Blackpool Tower, overshadow the valley, and offer minimal environmental advantages.
The activists worry the substantial concrete required to anchor the turbines would inflict permanent harm to the region's peatlands.
Responding to these concerns, Cubico is also putting forward plans for a substantial moorland restoration programme. This will concentrate on enhancing and safeguarding the distinctive peatland throughout the area, re-wetting the moor, restoring indigenous vegetation, and improving habitats for native wildlife.
Development manager Peter Rowe said: "Scout Moor II is a chance for Rossendale and Rochdale to lead the º£½ÇÊÓƵ into a clean energy future – creating jobs, supporting the local economy and backing Britain by producing secure, homegrown energy.
"We've been listening closely to what people have told us during the consultation process, and we're incredibly grateful to everyone who has taken the time to engage with us. Their input has shaped a stronger scheme that we believe delivers for local communities and supports national energy goals.
"We understand that new developments like Scout Moor II raise important questions, and that local communities must see real and lasting benefits. We're committed to working closely with the council, community groups and residents as the process moves forward."
A long-term community wealth fund has also been put forward, providing £20million throughout the wind farm's operational period. It would guarantee £600,000 annually, indexed to inflation, and calculated at £6,000 per MW of installed capacity. If the wind farm's gross annual revenue surpasses this amount by three per cent, the larger figure will be paid instead, ensuring that the community directly benefits from the project's continued success.
The fund will be overseen by the newly established independent Scout Moor Development Trust, led by a community liaison group composed of local representatives. The trust's aim is to reinvest funds into the local community.
Cubico states that if the scheme receives approval from Rochdale and Rossendale councils, it would contribute towards the º£½ÇÊÓƵ's goal to triple onshore wind capacity by 2030 and bring substantial investment to the area.
