Scout Moor II Reaches Key Milestone with Met Mast Deployment

Cubico is preparing to begin the installation of a meteorological (“met”) mast, marking an important step forward in the development of Scout Moor II, the first proposed new onshore wind farm in England for more than a decade. 

The mast, which was approved by Rossendale Borough Council’s Development Control Committee on 24 June, will collect detailed wind and weather data. This information will play a vital role in shaping the final design of the wind farm and ensuring it can deliver the maximum benefit for both the environment and local communities.

Scout Moor II has the potential to generate up to 100 megawatts (“MW”) of clean electricity from 17 turbines, enough to power around 100,000 homes each year. In addition to producing secure, homegrown energy, the project will also deliver one of the largest moorland restoration schemes in the North of England and a £20million Community Wealth Fund to support local priorities. 

The mast installation is scheduled to take place between 15-18 September. Access will be along Rooley Moor Road, which will remain open to walkers, cyclists and horse riders throughout. Vehicle movements will be limited and carefully managed, with sensitive areas of peatland and heritage features fenced off for protection, and strict monitoring to make sure there is no lasting disturbance.

The mast is a temporary structure, in place for up to three years, although it will be removed sooner if enough data is collected before then. Once taken down, the land will be fully restored to its previous condition. A short video showing what residents may see during the installation is available here:

Peter Rowe, Development Manager at Cubico said:

“The installation of the met mast is a significant milestone for Scout Moor II and demonstrates real momentum behind a project that can deliver clean, homegrown energy for thousands of households and businesses across the North West while also restoring moorlands, creating jobs and investing in communities. 

“Scout Moor II has the potential to be a flagship scheme for the UK - showing how we can tackle climate change, strengthen our energy security and bring benefits for local people and the environment. Today’s step takes us closer to making that vision a reality.”