PROPOSALS for a controversial wind farm that could be viewed from across East Lancashire have been thrown out by planners.

The plans for five 100 metre wind turbines prompted more than 1,000 letters of complaint.

German firm Energiekontor put forward the proposal for land at Brightenber Hill between West Marton and Bank Newton in Craven, North Yorkshire.

The decision was greeted by loud cheers by around 270 people who attended a special meeting of Craven’s planning committee in Skipton.

Energiekontor’s plans had been recommended for approval because of government policy on renewable energy, but councillors decided the impact on the landscape and nearby historical properties would be too great.

Charlie Yorke, from The Friends of Craven Landscape group, said he was delighted with the decision.

Mr Yorke, who works in Clitheroe, said: “A lot of people in the Ribble Valley felt very strongly about this issue because if built they would be visible from the top of Mellor, Longridge Fell, Pendle and across the Forest of Bowland. The impact on the area would be massive.

“We now expect the developers to appeal.”

But local resident, Carol Oliver, who spoke in favour of the proposals, said it was a victory for ‘Nimbyism’.

“Unfortunately, the Nimbys prevailed over common sense and concern over climate change. All that can be said is that I hope they are ready for climate change and that the rest of us can cope with it too.

“I hope that they are aware that, when the council gets fined for not meeting targets for renewables, the council won’t be the ones forking out for the fines, of course, it will be us, via our council tax.”