A planning application for a temporary weather-monitoring mast on Scout Moor, linked to a potential new wind farm, is set to be reviewed by councillors next week. The applicant, Peter Rowe of Cubico 海角视频 Development (Wind 1) Limited, based in Media City, Salford, is seeking permission for the meteorological mast on land west of Rooley Moor Road.
Planning agent Thomas Lord, from Manchester-based Turley, is also involved in the project. Cubico aims to construct the Scout Moor II wind turbine development in the area, but first requires detailed weather data.
The mast plan also includes solar energy modules to power batteries for monitoring equipment, animal-proof and security fencing. However, the proposal has faced opposition, with concerns raised about potential damage to peat moors, wildlife, historic roads, and visual impact.
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The site, popular for outdoor activities such as walking, mountain biking and horse riding, was chosen due to its elevated position which increases weather monitoring accuracy due to higher wind speeds. It's located in open countryside, but not on common land or green belt.
The report highlights key considerations such as sustainable development, bolstering a robust economy, addressing the challenge of climate change, and preserving both natural and historic environments.
The proposed meteorological mast, or 'met mast', is crucial for Cubico to gain a comprehensive understanding of wind patterns. This will aid in the design, funding, construction, and long-term operation of the Scout Moor II wind farm.
A two-year wind data collection period is required before construction can commence. If planning permission is granted for the Scout Moor II wind farm, it could be operational by 2030, according to company executives.
Several authorities have been consulted about the met mast, including the Greater Manchester Ecology Unit, which provides advice to councils. The unit has no objections but recommends that markers should be installed on mast lines to safeguard flying birds.
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If the mast construction commences during the bird nesting season, from March to August, an ecological 'walk-over' of the site and surrounding area should be conducted by a seasoned ornithologist to check for any signs of nesting birds.
To protect peat and associated wildlife, the unit suggests implementing good-practice construction measures.
However, objections have been lodged by Rooley Moor Neighbourhood Forum, the Norden, Bamford & Heywood Bridleway Association; Rossendale Civic Trust and ten members of the public.
The forum has expressed concerns about access routes, the potential impact on Catley Lane Head conservation area, the Cotton Famine Road and the national bridleway, and is calling for alternatives to be considered. It has also questioned whether Cubico has the necessary permission to use vehicles on the moor.
Forum trustees have deemed it 'totally unacceptable' to access a proposed loading area through Catley Lane Head and suggest that Rochdale Council's conservation officer should be consulted.
Rossendale Civic Trust has also voiced concerns, including potential damage to Rooley Moor, Rooley Moor Road and stone sett sections. The trust is urging Rossendale Council not to facilitate or encourage 'damaging access to this sensitive site' and to acknowledge 'the possible, or probable, consequences of not giving due respect to the environment'.
Other objections include the visual impact of the mast, if approved. Critics believe it would mar views from key viewpoints, such as Waugh's Well, Catley Lane Head, the Prickshaw conservation area and the Cotton Famine Road.
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Neighbouring Rochdale Council highways officers have been consulted, the report adds. While they initially objected to the use of Rooley Moor Road, following changes to a construction method statement, officers are now satisfied, subject to a survey of Rooley Moor Road to ensure remedial works are undertaken if needed.
Rossendale Council planning officers have recommended approval for a mast plan, citing the advantages it would bring to renewable energy generation. A report details: "In light of the potential benefits to renewable energy generation facilitated by this development, and because the met mast is not likely to result in any long-term harm to the amenities of occupiers of any buildings, the landscape as viewed from the site or its surroundings, ecology, heritage assets, the safety of users of public rights of way, or aviation, it is considered the proposals are acceptable."
The conclusion of the report is that, with certain conditions, the mast plan would be suitable and consistent with both the Rossendale Local Plan and national planning policies. The issue is set to be discussed at the Rossendale Council's development committee meeting scheduled for Tuesday, May 13.