IN THE middle of the land being looked at by the Countryside Agency is the target site for the controversial Whinash Windfarm development.

The application by West Coast Energy Ltd to build 27 wind turbines each 115 metres (380 feet) tall on fells between Shap and Tebay would, if allowed, create the largest on-shore windfarm in England.

The plan has caused widespread consternation in communities and has been opposed by every local authority and conservation organisation in the area. The level of opposition to the scheme has meant the issue must be decided by public inquiry Opponents have welcomed this latest news. Kyle Blue, chairman of the No Whinash Windfarm group, said: "I'm delighted. The main feature of our argument is that this upland area is far too beautiful and important to be sacrificed for industrial use.

"They (the CA) are recognising the value of this landscape."

West Coast Energy's Steve Molloy said that the inclusion of the Whinash site in a national park or AONB, would not in itself be enough to scupper plans for the windfarm but accepted it could make life difficult for his company's plans.