CAMPAIGNERS against wind farms in Penistone have been left reeling after two new planning applications were sent to the council this week.

Jeff Pears of Bella Vista Farm, has applied to the council for five 84m turbines off Spicer Hill, Ingbirchworth.

This follows an application by Evelop UK last week for a 70 metre high temporary wind monitoring mast at Sheephouse Farm, Penistone, to help them decide on the design of the actual turbines before a formal application is made at that site.

Alan Hey of Joan Royd Cottage, Penistone, said: "I love the Penistone and Langsett area which has been my home for 61 years. The area is at the extreme boundaries between Sheffield and Barnsley, arguably a no-man's-land, therefore it could be a case of who cares if the development goes ahead.

"The developers are just going through the motions of involving the public. I urge everyone with an interest in Penistone to inform themselves and object to this unwanted and unnecessary development."

Doreen Rothery of Fairview Cottage, Crow Edge, has campaigned against the growing number of wind farms for years. She said: "We moved here for the beautiful views but in a few years time all we will be able to see is windmills so we are certainly opposed. I appreciate we need green energy but the last one was approved despite 500 letters of objection so I don't hold out much hope."

If the Blackstone Edge and Spicer Hill windfarms are given the go ahead there will be a total of 22 turbines on the outskirts of Penistone.