Pontefract Windfarm Action Group - Banks Developments propose a wind farm in Micklefield

Banks Developments propose a wind farm in Micklefield

Dun Law (c) Scottish Power

Banks Developments are proposing to build another large wind farm 10 miles north of Darrington on the outskirts of Leeds. The proposed development would be located on agricultural land at Hook Moor, near Micklefield and Garforth. Banks Developments are proposing to build between five and eight 80 metre tall wind turbines. Durham-based Banks Developments say they are aiming to submit a planning application for the project later this year. If the forthcoming planning application is approved work on site could start by 2009. If you would like to visit the Hook Moor Wind Farm Action Group web-site click here.

The wind farm is thought to be the first scheme of its type proposed for the Leeds metropolitan area. Banks Developments claims it would generate enough energy for up to 10,000 homes. But the news of the proposals have drawn a cautious response in communities near the east Leeds site. The Yorkshire Evening Post on Tuesday 10 July 2007 quoted Coun James Lewis (Lab, Kippax & Methley) as saying "At the moment the information we have about this is quite sketchy". "What I will stress, however, is that we will be looking at the plans extremely carefully."

> The location earmarked for the wind farm lies to the east of the junction of the M1 and A1(M), and south of the B1217 Collier Lane. It is also less than two kilometres from the Edwardian stately home of Lotherton Hall. Banks Developments has not purchased the land but says it has an "agreement" with the owner, whose identity has not been made public. The Company is already in the process of submitting an application to Leeds City Council for permission for a 60 metre high test wind mast at this site. Banks Developments claim it will help them identify the right kind of turbine for use at the proposed wind farm.