CLIVIGER Parish Council has urged a public inquiry to say yes to a moorland wind farm that is being opposed by Burnley Council.

Coun Steven Smith, chairman of the council, said similar concerns about the impact the turbines would have on the landscape were raised by residents when proposals for the Cliviger wind power site were first discussed.

He said: "Many people raised concerns about the project, which almost mirror the objections raised during this process.

"But it has not had a detrimental effect on the area, in fact people come from miles around to look at the turbines.

"It has not had an impact on the recreational uses of the countryside - our footpaths are well used by walkers, mountain bikers and cross country runners. There has also been no noticeable effect on the wildlife."

Coun Smith added: "The Cliviger experience has been, on the whole, very positive. If we could change one thing it would be to include a lasting educational facility to raise awareness of renewable energy sources and to take pride in the fact that Cliviger had the foresight to support these sources for the future. We ask you to support this application."

He was speaking on the second day of a public inquiry into United Utilities' plans for 12 wind turbines, a temporary mast and associated equipment on land to the east of Clowbridge Reservoir.

The proposals were refused twice by Burnley councillors but the company resubmitted them after the council gave its backing in principle to such a development on the site in its new Local Plan - the blueprint for future development in the borough.

However, United Utilities lodged an appeal after its plans were knocked back by the council for a third time, resulting in the public inquiry that opened at the town hall on Tuesday, under planning inspector Keith Durant.

A second appeal against refusal for three turbines on land at New Barn Farm, off Billington Road, Hapton, will also be heard. The inquiry is expected to last six days.