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'Wind Break' cache is located just off the
M6 motorway at Junction 37 in Cumbria. If travelling north or south
why not take a short break and take a closer look at the five
gigantic wind turbines that dominate the sky-line.
Lambrigg Wind Farm
The Lambrigg Wind Farm became fully operational in
September 2000. At that time this 6.5 megawatt site was the largest
to be constructed in England since 1993. Lambrigg's five turbines
generate enough clean, pollution free electricity each year to meet
the average annual needs for the nearby town of Kendal.
Lambrigg Fell is circa 300 metres (1000 ft) above sea
level and is one of the more exposed points of the area taking the
brunt of strong prevailing winds from across the Morecambe Bay. The
location was well chosen not just in terms of wind, but in respect
of being visible to other residents. Amazingly there are very few
houses that are actually in full view of the wind
turbines.
Each turbine is 74 metres high to the tip of its blades.
They are low maintenance and need servicing only twice a year. They
cost about £1 million each.
The electricity produced by the wind farm flows through
underground cables to a small sub-station located on the site. From
the sub-station, the electricity feeds into an existing electricity
line for distribution to homes and businesses in the area without
the need for any new overhead lines.
Getting There
Exit at Junction 37 and head toward Kendal. Continue past
the lay-by's on the right and left. After a further 400 metres
prepare to make a right turn into a wide junction signposted
'Lambrigg Wind Farm'. The entrance to the farm is gated but there
is sufficient turning space to spin around and park to the side of
the gates.
Take care when turning right, the road can be fast and
sometimes busy.
The Cache
The cache is located a short walk away and a grassy path
takes you there. Incidentally, this is not a 'cacher path' as many
seem to think, it is trodden by the many muggles who pull in here
to view the turbines.
There is no need to walk or go near the main road. Please
take care if you are with children as the road is relatively narrow
and has fast moving vehicles.
You may also wish to get up close
to a turbine. Though the gate is locked the fell is open access and
visitors are welcome. Read the sign on the gate first.
Enjoy your 'Wind Break' and don't get
blown over!
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