A NEW £34,000 toilet block in Ribchester could be powered by wind!

Ribble Valley council bosses have opened the new environmentally-friendly toilets in Church Street.

And they have revealed that they are looking into putting a wind turbine next to the facility so it can generate its own power.

If the plan comes to fruition, it is believed it will be the first time a wind turbine will have been used in such a way.

The toilets are energy-efficient and water-efficient, with anti-vandal sensory taps and flushes, and energy-saving light bulbs.

Rod Pearce, principle surveyor at Ribble Valley Council, said: "Climate change is a big issue and we are looking to see if we can make the toilets carbon neutral by installing a wind turbine.

"A wind turbine will cost around £1,250 but in the long run it will pay for itself."

The wind turbine would be around two metres tall and next to the toilets The study will look into average wind speeds in the area to determine whether a urbine is a feasible option.

The council decided not to use solar panels because vandals would find them easier to damage.

If council planners give the go ahead to the plans council bosses say they could start building the turbine in April.

Ian Dickson, a member of Hyndburn and Ribble Valley Friends of the Earth, welcomed the proposals.

He said: "I am very please that they are making steps towards using renewable resources rather than fossil fuel.

"People are becoming more aware of the need for renewable resources to help tackle climate change."