A new meteorological (met) mast at Kirkby Moor Wind farm could provide a major boost to Duddon and Furness Mountain Rescue Team and potentially save lives.A planning application submitted by RWE npower renewables for two new met masts is to include a proposal to upgrade the radio equipment used by the Mountain Rescue Team who currently use the existing mast to help with their communication. The Planning Officer has already recommended the application for approval and it is now for the Planning Committee to decide.
Over the last 20 years, the energy firm has assisted the Duddon and Furness Mountain Rescue Team by placing their radio antennas on the existing met mast on Kirkby Moor wind farm site. This has enabled the local charity to communicate during its rescues in south-west Cumbria. However, the existing met mast is coming towards the end of its life as is the team’s radio equipment so the Mountain Rescue Team wants to upgrade it.
Chris Gainey from RWE npower renewables, explained: “If the planning application is approved, the radio equipment will be replaced with a more modern system. We are keen to work with the local community and happy to support the Mountain Rescue Team by covering these costs. Additionally, as the new antennas will be attached to one of the new taller masts, it will lead to an important increase in the communication range of the equipment.
“This improved signal range will help Duddon and Furness and neighbouring mountain rescue teams communicate more efficiently when carrying out rescues and training exercises in the National Park and the surrounding area, making it safer for local people and tourists alike.
“We worked closely with the mountain rescue team to incorporate their requirements into the design of the new mast before we submitted our application. RWE npower renewables is delighted to be in a position to further assist the local charity by also funding the upgrade of their radio equipment.
Duncan Van Mill, radio officer for the Duddon and Furness Mountain Rescue Team, said: “From the rescue team’s point of view, if RWE npower renewables’ application for the met mast is approved, it would significantly improve our ability to communicate and therefore our efficiency on searches and rescues.”
Contact:
Ffion Davies, PR Officer, RWE npower renewables
T 01793 474 129
E ffion.davies@rwe.com
Amy Baynton, PR Officer, RWE npower renewables
T 01793 474 259
E amy.baynton@rwe.com
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