North East

West Durham Wind Farm

This wind farm produces 24 megawatts of green electricity from 12 turbines, enough electricity to meet the needs of 15,700 homes. This planning permission resulted in County Durham being the first county in England to deliver its 2010 target for renewables generation.

• This planning permission delivered County Durham’s target for onshore wind power to 2010.
• A reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by harnessing wind as an alternative to the burning of fossil fuels
• Produce an indigenous energy supply, contributing to the reduction of the UK's reliance on imported fossil fuels
• Generating employment during the design and permitting of the wind farm. We have contracted with over 60 different companies during this process
• Create employment opportunities during the manufacturing and construction period of the project. Hanson Contracting and Agrilek employ around 50 people for wind farm construction and have a combined annual turnover of some £20 million
• Support farm diversification and more ecologically and environmentally friendly agricultural practices in a marginal agricultural area
• A Community Benefits Fund of £24,000 per year ring fenced for spending in the communities closest to the development
• Habitat and landscape improvements including new public access and planting to increase the biodiversity of the area.