PUBLIC consultation event giving details about the expansion of Scout Moor Wind Farm is to take place at Bury Town Hall.

Representatives of Peel Energy and United Utilities will be on hand on Monday June 23 to provide further information about the proposals, which could see the wind farm overlooking Bury double in size.

A computer model of what the turbines would look like will be available to view, as well as information about the environmental impact of the expansion.

Details of a fund which would see the wind farm contribute to local projects and good causes will be given, in addition to a cooperative ownership scheme offering the public the chance to invest in the project.

Local councils near to the wind farm including Bury are being consulted on the plans, but the Government’s Major Infrastructure Planning Unit will have the final say.

It is believed the application could be ready for submission by the end of the year, following the consultation.

The wind farm was originally opened in September 2008 after a lengthy dispute, and is currently has 26 wind turbines.

The site is based on moorland between Edenfield, Rawtenstall and Rochdale.

Jon England, from Peel Energy, said: “Environmental and technical studies continue to suggest that open areas to the north of the site, and within the existing turbines, could accommodate turbines without impacting people living in the surrounding areas.

“The suitability of the site is partly due to its proven high wind resource, existing road access, and ability to connect the turbines to the national grid so that the power generated can be supplied to the homes and businesses of Greater Manchester and Lancashire.

“The expansion turbines could meet the electricity needs of around 40,000 homes.”

The event will take place in the Lancaster Room from 9am to noon.