HOW WAS PARK HEAD FARM CHOSEN FOR A POTENTIAL WIND FARM SITE?

There are many limitations when identifying suitable sites for wind farms, and even when a suitable site has been found, numerous constraints can restrict the placing of turbines.

RES has undertaken wind farm site selection studies across the UK. As a result, a number of potential sites have been identified in each region.

The first step is a map-based review of England taking into account environmental, technical and economic constraints, such as close proximity to houses, low wind speeds and statutorily protected areas. Further investigation is undertaken on the most promising locations, including site visits, contacting landowners, further desk-top research and, where appropriate, preliminary consultation with the planning authority and statutory consultees.

As a result of these activities, many sites were rejected because of technical unsuitability or because of lack of landowner interest. Park Head Farm passed through these stages and remained as a potentially suitable site.

RES has followed up these initial assessments with detailed investigations over the past few years, to fully determine the viability of a wind farm at Park Head Farm, including whether it is environmentally acceptable.

This section of the website contains more information here about the project, and is also supported in more detail by a comprehensive Environmental Statement accompanying the planning application.