Hydro plant at reservoir could power 140 homes

Listed building consent has been applied for as part of proposals to construct a hydro power plant at a reservoir in the Yorkshire Dales.

Ellegreen Hydro has already been granted planning permission for the plant at Winterburn Reservoir in Malhamdale.

The firm said once constructed it would generate enough energy to power about 140 homes.

The latest application to the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority is intended to cover any potential impact on the historic features of the 19th Century reservoir, though Ellergreen said it was unclear if listed building consent would be needed.

Winterburn Reservoir was constructed between 1885 and 1893 to maintain water levels on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal.

The site is still used to maintain canal water levels by feeding into the River Aire.

Ellergreen Hydro said the plant would be built on the reservoir's outfall.

The listed building consent application covers the wave wall with valve tower and bridge, water ladder, low-level outlet, weir and gauging house.

While admitting the consent might not needed, the firm said its application was "prudent", according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

The firm said in its application the plant would have little impact on the area.

“The ability of the technology components to be buried, hidden by natural features, and blended into the local landscape by the use of stonework and timber cladding results in schemes that have a very minor visual footprint.

“The scheme will barely be visible unless in its immediate vicinity.”

A date to consider the application has not been set.

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