AN energy firm has reduced the number of turbines at a proposed wind farm on the moors above Bacup.

But Renewable Energy Systems says the nine 45m towers with rotor blades 54m in diameter would still create the same amount of energy as the original 12 - nine megawatts - enough to supply 6,000 homes each year.

A public debate on proposals for Hog's Head Hill will be held on July 16 at the Central Methodist Church, Bacup at 7.30pm.

It has been organised by Rossendale Against Wind Farms (RAWF) whose representative Robin Pennie will speak.

Environmental scientist Dr Alan Heyworth and Chris Shears, of Renewable Energy Systems will also address the meeting which will be chaired by new Euro MP Chris Davies.

Green campaigner and RAWF member Jean Johnson said: "Our main objection is the visual impact - these things will tower over Bacup, and the concrete foundations are enormous. Putting them in will disrupt the water courses and destroy the ecology of the moor and the peat will just wash away." But Erica Mitchell-Packington, communications officer with Renewable Energy Systems, said: "We believe we have a very strong set of proposals. It is an excellent site for a wind farm.

"It is not designated an area of special scientific interest and it has excellent wind capacity.

"It will not have an adverse effect on the ecology or hydrology of that area.

"I believe the site of wind turbines is far more preferable to breathing in pollution and carbon dioxide and sulphur dioxide."

She said many of the fears expressed by residents before a wind farm is developed are alleviated once it is running.

Rossendale Council could decide the planning application in September.

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