Member Article

NECC backs £16 million County Durham windfarm project

The North East Chamber of Commerce (NECC) has written to Durham County Council to express its support for proposed Windy Bank wind farm, which would be located to the north of the village of Woodland in County Durham

County Durham-based Banks Renewables is looking to invest over £16 million in the four-turbine scheme.

The plans have already been backed by Bishop Auckland MP Helen Goodman.

The family-owned firm, which employs 420 people, 135 of whom live in County Durham, has committed to creating around 30 jobs during the site preparation and construction phases of the scheme

The firm has also promised to provide local firms with the opportunity to tender for a range of related contracts worth up to £3.5 million for different aspects of the project, including construction, security, accommodation and catering.

Jonathan Walker, head of member relations at NECC, says: “The UK needs to develop a sustainable mix of energy sources to meet both future demand and carbon reduction targets, and onshore wind developments such as Windy Bank will form a major part of the mix.

“Banks is a significant employer within County Durham and has a strong track record of working with local businesses on its various projects and providing substantial investment for community projects, and it has made clear commitments to continue this trend with the Windy Bank scheme.

“The County Council has identified the proposed Windy Bank site as a suitable location for a wind farm, and we would urge them to look favourably upon Banks’ proposals for it.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ellen Forster .