Concerns power storage plant could damage ‘finest view in England’

A proposed Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in South Kilvington, near Thirsk, has sparked strong opposition due to concerns that it could harm the famous “finest view in England” at Sutton Bank. The North York Moors National Park Authority (NYMNPA) has formally objected to the project, citing its potential impact on the stunning landscape and visitor experience.

National Park Authority Raises Concerns

The NYMNPA has criticized the lack of a full visual impact assessment, arguing that the Belmoor scheme, proposed by NatPower, could be highly visible from key locations within the national park. These include:

• The Cleveland Way long-distance path
• Roulston Scar
• The ‘finest view in England’ platform near Sutton Bank National Park Centre
• Whitestonecliffe above Lake Gormire

The authority fears that the size and reflective surfaces of the proposed 1,096 battery units, covering over 30,000 square meters, could resemble large industrial buildings, disrupting the natural beauty of the park.

Public Opposition to the BESS Project

The proposal has faced widespread public resistance, with more than 360 objections submitted during the consultation period. In contrast, only four responses supported the project. Local governing bodies, including the South Kilvington Parish Council and Thirsk Town Council, have also urged North Yorkshire Council to reject the application.

Additionally, the NYMNPA raised concerns about light pollution, pointing out that even industrial sites much farther away in the Vale of Mowbray are clearly visible from the national park. The authority emphasized that the Sutton Bank visitor centre, which attracted 146,347 visitors in 2024, relies on the unspoiled views as its key attraction.

Developer Defends the Energy Project

Despite the backlash, NatPower maintains that the 173-acre Belmoor scheme will play a vital role in ensuring clean, secure, and affordable energy for the UK. A NatPower spokesperson responded to concerns, stating:

“Our proposals have been carefully designed to minimize any impact on the surrounding area, including views from the North York Moors National Park. We are committed to ensuring that our plans respect the local landscape, and we will provide further details in subsequent reserved matters applications in line with planning requirements.”

Why This View Matters

The view from Sutton Bank, famously described by James Herriot (Thirsk vet Alf Wight) in his 1979 book James Herriot’s Yorkshire as the “finest in England”, is a cherished part of the North York Moors National Park. This stunning panorama over the Vale of Mowbray attracts thousands of visitors every year and is a key economic and cultural asset for the region.

What Happens Next?

As the planning process moves forward, North Yorkshire Council will consider objections from the national park authority, local councils, and the public before making a final decision. With strong opposition and environmental concerns at play, the outcome could set a precedent for balancing renewable energy projects with landscape conservation.

SOURCE