Family-owned firm Banks Renewables has confirmed it has secured plans to extend the lifespan of its Armistead Wind Farm in South Cumbria up to a maximum of 40 years.

The company is also seeking to do the same for four more of its wind farms across Yorkshire and the North East.

Richard Dunkley, Managing Director at Banks Renewables, said: "The far-sightedness of our decision to use revenues generated from coal mining to drive a successful diversification into the renewable energy sector has been amply demonstrated over almost two decades.


"Alongside the environmental and energy security benefits they're delivering, our wind farms also make a vital, long-term contribution to the well-being of the communities in which they're located, a contribution which is well recognised by the people who live in them.

"This direct community contribution has become more important than ever before and we are committed to maintaining it for the long-term in ways which are most appropriate for each individual location."

The firm currently operates four onshore wind farms in Yorkshire, as well as two each in North East England, North West England and Scotland.

Its generating capacity is set to rise further this year with the 15-turbine Kype Muir Extension Wind Farm in South Lanarkshire due to come online immediately, while it has also secured planning permission for the Lethans and Mill Rig Wind Farms in Scotland.

The company has also confirmed proposals for a new green energy hub at the former Thorpe Marsh power station site near Doncaster.