A CONTROVERSIAL application to install a 46-metre high wind turbine in Laneshaw Bridge has been rejected.

The scheme for Hazelgrove Lodge, in Warley Wise Lane, had caused anger amongst local residents, but was recommended for approval by council officers.

However councillors in Colne turned the scheme down, saying it would have an adverse impact on the countryside in that area.

Ward councillor Paul White said: “Whilst we are considering an application for one turbine, I feel that we cannot ignore what else is going on in this area.

“We have had an application for two turbines on the adjacent farm turned down already and I am also led to believe that there are investigations ongoing literally just over the border in Craven. So we could have a series of small development across two boroughs and two counties making a large development.

“We have to ask ourselves whether we are being conned into a having a large scale wind farm here. Yes, this is an application for one turbine, constituting a small scale development, but surely several small scale developments in the same area make a larger development and it is ridiculous that this can happen.”

Coun Joe Cooney said: “There are three bridleways in 170 metres of the site and we decided it would be too imposing for that area.

“The applications said it would be good for the rural economy but I don’t believe that is the case, it is good for the person who gets the energy but it won’t help the local area.

“It would have had a significant impact on one of the nicest areas of Pendle, it is a spectacular area and we want it to stay that way.”

In a statement in support of the application DC21, the company behind the plans, said: “The turbine should integrate well into the landscape, impact on residential and recreational amenity will be minimal.”