Giant Calderdale wind farm plan delayed by eight months

Calderdale Wind Farm Limited (CWFL) said its Development Consent Order application for Calderdale Energy Park on Walshaw Moor, previously expected in November 2026, will now be submitted in July 2027.

The developer said the revised timetable followed a review of responses to its statutory consultation which identified “a number of matters requiring further consideration”.

Christian Egal, project director, said: “We’re grateful to everyone who took the time to take part in the statutory consultation.

"The feedback we received has been invaluable, and it’s clear that some areas need more work before we’re in a position to submit.

“Taking this extra time is the right thing to do. It means we can complete the further assessments needed, refine the design and submit the most robust application possible.”

The company said it intends to share an updated project design with stakeholders in early 2027 before lodging the application.

The delay comes amid continuing opposition to plans for 34 giant wind turbines on the moorland between Hebden Bridge and Haworth.

The company says the turbines will generate enough low carbon electricity to power 198,000 homes a year while offsetting an estimated 294,000 tonnes of CO2 per year.

The application will ultimately be decided by the Energy Secretary – currently Miatta Fahnbulleh (Labour).

Leaders from three Reform-controlled councils have previously joined forces to oppose the development, including Daniel Sutherland, leader of Calderdale Council.

Parliamentarians, including Robbie Moore, Conservative MP for Keighley and Ilkley, and Josh Fenton-Glynn, Labour MP for Calder Valley, have also shared concerns.