We have learned that Ridge Clean Energy is proposing six 150-metre wind turbines on a field bordering Woldgate.

The Three Oaks Renewable Energy Park Extension represents a serious and immediate threat to a nationally significant cultural landscape. Each turbine would be nearly as tall as Blackpool Tower, introducing dominant industrial structures into an open countryside where the value lies in its scale, openness, and uninterrupted views.

We support renewable energy and the UK’s commitment to decarbonising the energy grid, but this transition cannot come at any price or in any place. Poorly sited, oversized infrastructure risks causing irreversible harm.

Protecting cultural heritage is not anti-environmental. Once a landscape like Woldgate is fundamentally altered, it cannot be restored.

Why is Woldgate considered a sensitive location?

Woldgate is a nationally significant cultural destination, internationally recognised through the work of David Hockney who was beguiled by its beauty. His paintings, i-pad drawings and films have made Woldgate one of the most identifiable modern British landscapes. The significance of this Roman road lies not only in the woods that line it, but in the openness of the surrounding countryside and its proximity and connectivity to two of the area’s few inland cultural destinations: Burton Agnes Hall and the Rudston Monolith.

East Yorkshire is one of the most sparsely wooded areas of the UK, and Woldgate is lined with some of the area’s few woods providing a tranquil sanctuary for nature, and an amenity for people to enjoy for leisure pursuits, including walking, cycling and bird watching.

What development is being proposed?

The application proposes six wind turbines, each 150 metres in height. The developer has already received planning permission for a 161-acre solar farm to which the turbines would be adjacent; hence the name Three Oaks Renewable Energy Park Extension.

What would be the landscape and visual impact?

This scale is markedly out of proportion with the surrounding landscape, and the turbines would significantly alter the skyline and erode the defining characteristics of Woldgate. They would dominate the villages of Burton Agnes and Rudston, with some homes being less than 1km away. Carnaby and the conservation village of Kilham would also be negatively affected.

Due to their height, movement, and cumulative presence, the effects would be unavoidable and permanent, fundamentally changing the landscape that underpins Woldgate and the wider area’s cultural value.

Has David Hockney expressed views on wind turbines in this landscape?

Yes. David Hockney has previously objected to large wind turbines proposed for the same site, calling them “big ugly things”. He publicly criticised their scale and visual impact on the grounds that they would damage the character of the landscape that inspired his art.

Why is this not a case of opposition to renewable energy?

We support renewable energy and recognise its importance in addressing climate change. The objection is to the location and scale of this proposal. National and local planning policy require renewable energy development to be appropriately sited, particularly where landscapes of recognised cultural value are concerned.

Are alternative locations available?

Yes. The wider area contains multiple less sensitive sites, including locations already influenced by existing infrastructure, where wind turbines could deliver renewable energy benefits without causing harm to a nationally important cultural landscape.

Why is this proposal considered the “thin end of the wedge”?

The developer already holds planning permission for a large solar farm adjacent to this proposed wind farm. The current application represents a significant escalation, adding six turbines at 150 metres tall to the same site. Approval would establish a precedent that Woldgate is suitable for large-scale energy infrastructure. Once that principle is accepted, it becomes increasingly difficult to resist further or cumulative development. This application therefore raises concerns about the gradual industrialisation of this area.

Does cultural heritage carry weight in planning decisions?

Cultural landscapes are a finite and non-renewable resource. While energy infrastructure can be re-sited or redesigned, the loss of a nationally significant landscape is irreversible. Planning policy seeks to balance the delivery of renewable energy with the protection of cultural and landscape heritage. In this case, that balance has not been achieved.

How can I object to the proposal?

If you are concerned about the impact of this development, you can submit an objection directly through the local planning authority’s website once Ridge Clean Energy has submitted its formal planning application (expected late Feb 2026). All comments submitted this way are formally recorded and must be taken into account as part of the planning decision.

When submitting an objection, it helps to focus on planning considerations such as:

• Impact on the landscape and views

• Harm to a nationally significant cultural landscape

• Scale and visual dominance of the turbines

• Precedent for further industrial development

• Conflict with local and national planning policy

Personal opinions are valid, but objections that reference planning impacts tend to carry greater weight. Visit our page on how to object.

Does my objection really make a difference?

Yes. Planning decisions are influenced by both expert evidence and public response. A high number of well-reasoned objections signals the level of local and national concern and can materially affect the outcome.

Should I also contact my local MP?

Yes. Members of Parliament have a duty to represent the concerns of their constituents. Writing to your local MP helps ensure the issue is raised at a political level, particularly where the proposal affects a landscape of national significance.

To date, the local MP has not made a public statement on this proposal. Contacting him is an important way to encourage scrutiny and accountability.

What should I say to my MP?

You do not need to be an expert. A short, clear message is enough.

We encourage you to write to your local MP, Charlie Dewhirst, and explain:

• why Woldgate matters as a nationally significant cultural landscape

• your concern about the scale and location of the proposed wind turbines

• why you believe the proposal should be reconsidered

Hearing directly from constituents is an important way to ensure the issue receives proper attention.

Write to him at charlie.dewhirst.mp@parliament.uk

When should I act?

Planning consultations are time-limited. Objections must be submitted before the consultation deadline to be counted. Acting early gives your voice the greatest impact.

If you fill out the contact form on this website, we will let you know when the planning application is live and provide the link for you to put your objection in writing.