Objectors raise concerns over Scout Moor II weather mast plan
A planning application to put up a temporary weather-monitoring mast and equipment on Scout Moor – linked to a potential new wind farm – will be considered by councillors next week.
Applicant Peter Rowe, of Cubico UK Development (Wind 1) Limited, is seeking permission for a temporary meteorological mast on land west of Rooley Moor Road, near Scout Moor in Rossendale.
Cubico hopes to build the Scout Moor II wind turbine development in the area but first needs detailed weather information.
Other elements of the mast plan include solar energy modules to power batteries for monitoring equipment, animal-proof fencing and security fencing.
However, objectors have raised concerns about the mast application. Worries include potential damage to peat moors, wildlife and historic roads, and the visual impact.
The area is used for outdoor activities such as walking, mountain biking and horse riding, with the Pennine Bridleway and Rossendale Way nearby.
According to a report for councillors on Rossendale's development control committee, the site has been chosen because of its elevated position, which increases the accuracy of weather monitoring because of higher wind speeds. It is in open countryside but not common land or green belt.
The report says factors to consider include sustainable development, building a strong economy; meeting the challenge of climate change, and conserving and enhancing both natural and historic environments.
The proposed weather mast, known as a 'met mast', is needed to help Cubico gain a better understanding of wind patterns and to assist with the design, funding, construction and long-term operation of the Scout Moor II wind farm.
Two years of wind data are needed before construction can begin. If planning permission is granted for a Scout Moor II wind farm, bosses say it can be delivered by 2030.
Planning agent Thomas Lord, of Manchester-based Turley, is also involved.
Various authorities have been consulted about the met mast including Greater Manchester Ecology Unit, which provides advice for councils. It has no objections, but says that markers should be fitted on mast lines, to protect flying birds.
If mast construction starts within the bird nesting season, between March to August, an ecological 'walk-over' of the site and buffer area should be done before work starts by an experienced ornithologist to check for any signs of nesting birds.
To protect peat and associated wildlife, good-practice construction measures should be imposed, the unit adds.
But objections have been raised by Rooley Moor Neighbourhood Forum, the Norden, Bamford & Heywood Bridleway Association; Rossendale Civic Trust and ten members of the public, according to the planning report.
The forum has worries about access routes, the potential impact on Catley Lane Head conservation area, the Cotton Famine Road and the national bridleway and wants alternatives to be considered. It has also asked if Cubico has the required permission to use vehicles on the moor.
Forum trustees consider it to be 'totally unacceptable' to access a proposed loading area through Catley Lane Head and suggest Rochdale Council's conservation officer should be consulted.
Rossendale Civic Trust has concerns too, including damage risks to Rooley Moor, Rooley Moor Road and stone sett sections. It urges Rossendale Council not to open-up or encourage 'damaging access to this sensitive site' and to give recognition to 'the possible, or probable, consequences of not giving due respect to the environment'.
Other concerns include the visual impact of the mast, if approved. It would damage views from important viewpoints, such as Waugh's Well, Catley Lane Head, the Prickshaw conservation area and the Cotton Famine Road, objectors believe.
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Neighbouring Rochdale Council highways officers have been consulted, the report adds. Whilst initially objecting about 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 say the mast plan should be approved. The report adds: '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 report concludes that, subject to appropriate conditions, the mast plan is acceptable and in accordance with the Rossendale Local Plan and national planning guidance. Rossendale Council's development committee meets on Tuesday, May 13.
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