CONTROVERSIAL plans to extend a wind farm above Burnley have been given the green light.

The application by RWE npower renewables to double the number of turbines at Hameldon Hill Wind Farm was voted through by members of Burnley Borough Council.

Concerns had been raised by Lancashire Wildlife Trust about the affect of the turbines on bats and peregrine falcons as well as Burnley Wildlife Conservation, which was worried about upland breeding birds.

Neighbours also said they were concerned about increased noise, possible light pollution and loss of visual amenity as well as the impact on wildlife.

But Friends of the Earth welcomed the development at Hameldon Hill as it would reduce Burnley’s carbon footprint.

Steve Milburn, development manager for RWE npower renewables, said: “We are very pleased with this decision. Hameldon Hill Wind Farm has been operational since 2007 and we are looking forward to increasing the clean electricity produced there with this extension.”

The six large white turbines will be visible from the M65 and some of the main gateways into Burnley.

The existing three turbines, which stand at 90 metres, were erected in 2007 and produce enough electricity to meet the annual needs of around 3,000 UK households.

The total number of homes that could be powered with the additional three turbines is expected to be in the region of 6,800.

Construction on the site is due to start in 2012 and a completion date has been set for 2013.

For for further information visit, www.rwe.com