Energy firm loses appeal over Lake District wind farm
A decision to block a planned wind farm on the edge of the Lake District has been upheld by the government.
West Coast Energy appealed against a decision by Eden District Council to refuse permission for nine turbines near the village of Greystoke.
The council said the 334ft (102m) turbines at Berrier Hill would blight the "unique local landscape."
The company said it was disappointed at the government's decision and would review its options for the area.
Opponents to the wind farm included mountaineer Sir Chris Bonington, who claimed the development would have diminished the "iconic" view to and from Blencathra.
The original planning application was blocked after a five-month public inquiry which ended in February.
West Coast Energy appealed against the decision, arguing the development would have provided significant environmental and economic benefits.
Welcoming the government's decision, Eden Council leader Gordon Nicolson said: "The council along with other public bodies recognise the need to develop renewable energy sources, but we also recognise the need to protect the unique character of our local landscapes for future generations."
Samantha Crosby, senior planning and development manager with West Coast Energy, said: "This development would have provided significant environmental and economic benefits and would have made a major contribution to renewable energy generation in Cumbria.
"We are still of the opinion that Berrier Hill is an appropriate location for renewable energy generation and we will be examining the appeal decision in order to review our future options."