Rally planned in Colne over controversial wind farm proposals
A rally opposing plans for a major wind farm development near Laneshaw Bridge is set to take place in Colne next week.
The event will be held at Colne Municipal Hall on Tuesday, April 14, starting at 7pm. It has been organised by former Pendle Council leader Paul White, who is urging residents to attend and learn more about the proposals and how to respond.
The plans, first announced in 2023 by Calderdale Wind Farm Ltd, would see a large-scale onshore wind farm built on Walshaw Moor, near Hebden Bridge. The land is owned by Boundary Mill owner Richard Bannister.
The development, described as potentially the largest onshore wind farm in England, could include dozens of turbines reaching heights of up to 200 metres; around 42 metres taller than Blackpool Tower.
While the site sits within Calderdale, concerns have been raised by residents in nearby Colne and Laneshaw Bridge about the potential local impact.
In a post promoting the rally, Mr White claimed the development would require tens of thousands of lorry movements through the area during construction.
“To do that, they will need to bring 85,000 articulated lorries through Colne and Laneshaw Bridge,” he said.
He also raised concerns about proposed new road infrastructure linked to the project, saying details had changed several times and were not yet confirmed.
Mr White added: “This will directly impact residents of Laneshaw Bridge and Colne, with very little benefit.”
He questioned the wider benefit of the scheme, describing it as a project backed by overseas investment, and warned of disruption during construction alongside environmental concerns.
“Although marketed as a green energy project, it would have environmental consequences locally, and traffic impacts for Laneshaw Bridge and Colne for a prolonged period,” he said.
The rally will include a presentation from campaign group Stop Calderdale Energy Park, along with guidance on how residents can respond to consultations and get involved in opposition efforts.
Organisers say attendees will also be able to collect posters and leave their contact details to receive updates on the campaign.