A ROW is brewing over two controversial wind turbine bids at either end of Pendle – with views from some of the borough’s most historic buildings and countryside potentially compromised.

Angry residents have flooded the borough council with complaints after proposals were lodged to install a 47-metre high structure at Back Lane, Southfield, and two 35-metre high turbines at Moor Isles Farm, in Wood End Road, Reedley.

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Protesters claim the Southfield plans would spoil the outlook for both Walton Spire and the remains of the hill fort at Castercliff, and other opponents are worried about the impact on wildlife.

One neighour said: “This is one of the only remaining areas which houses skylarks, golden plovers, curlews and lapwings.”

The evidence is clear that wind turbines present yet another threat to the lives of birds and bats.” English Heritage officials also said that, with the Moor Isles Farm application, not enough consideration has been given to the likely impact on the Grade Two listed Greenhead Manor or similarly historic Ashlar Cottage.

In a letter to planners, English Heritage officials said: “We suggest that in making its decision your authority assesses the cumulative impacts of this and other proposed wind farms upon the historic assets in this area.”Parish councillors in nearby Old Laund Booth have objected on the grounds that it is an ‘area of outstanding natural beauty’ and would be a ‘blot on the landscape’.

Borough planning officers have recommended the Moor Isles Farm proposals for refusal.

It will be considered by the Brierfield and Reedley area committee next Tuesday.

The same officials have suggested the Southfield plans should be approved though, when the Nelson area committee assembles next Monday, as it considered acceptable in terms of its visual impact and possible effect on the countryside setting.