Local MP Robbie Moore has spoken at a packed public meeting in Haworth about the proposed Walshaw Moor Wind Farm on historic land in Bronte Country, expressing his strong opposition to the project.
Mr Moore outlined key concerns, starting with the significant environmental risks posed by the proposal, which threatens over 2,352 hectares of protected peatland. These vital carbon stores could potentially release vast amounts of CO2 into the atmosphere, undermining national climate goals.
The local MP also highlighted the implications for local ecology, noting that the affected area is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and carries both a Special Protection Area (SPA) and a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) due to its unique blanket bog and peatland habitats. This region is home to red-listed bird species such as curlew, skylark, and lapwing, as well as globally important breeding populations of golden plover, merlin, and twite.
Mr Moore raised concerns about the impact on local tourism and landscapes. He noted that, as highlighted by The Brontë Society and other groups, the proposed turbines, some towering up to 200 meters, would drastically alter the views of Bronte Country, one of the most cherished and historic landscapes in the UK, attracting thousands of tourists each year.
And the MP also addressed the local disruption that would accompany construction plans, which would involve approximately 45,000 truckloads of limestone from North Yorkshire passing through Keighley, Ingrow, Cross Roads, and Oxenhope.
Speaking after the meeting, Robbie Moore MP said:
"This is about striking the right balance—not just for our area, but for the whole country. I will be working hard to oppose any scheme brought forward, collaborating with local campaigners and our community. Thank you so much to the Stronger Together/Worth Valley Against Walshaw Moor Wind Farm team for organising tonight’s meeting."
