Moorland weather test mast plan decision looms

A bid to put up a temporary weather-monitoring mast and equipment on moorland will be considered by councillors next week.

Applicant Peter Rowe, of Cubico UK Development (Wind 1) Limited, based at Media City, Salford, is seeking permission for a temporary meteorological mast on land on Scout Moor, west of Rooley Moor Road, near Rossendale.

Cubico hopes to build the Scout Moor II wind turbine development in the area but first needs detailed weather information.

Rossendale Council's development committee will decide on the application on Tuesday.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service writes that other elements of the mast plan include solar energy modules to power batteries for monitoring equipment, animal-proof fencing and security fencing.

Objections include concerns about 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.

Rossendale Council planning officers have recommended approval subject to appropriate conditions.

Their report said: "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."

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