An energy company boss has defended proposals for a wind farm on green fields near Bradford amid criticism it will be a ‘disaster’ for the area.

Phil Dyke, chief executive of Banks Renewables, spelled out plans to residents for a proposed wind farm on Thornton Moor, near Denholme.

The proposals are for up to six turbines, the tallest measuring 125 metres, near the Ovenden Moor wind farm, operated by Yorkshire Wind Power.

Critics have described the proposals as being a ‘blight’ on picturesque countryside.

But speaking to the Telegraph & Argus, Mr Dyke said: “This has the potential to power 8,000 houses with turbines producing clean energy and this is what we are talking to local people and the planning authorities in Bradford about.”

The wind farm would mean more home-produced energy, cutting the need for gas and oil imported from abroad, lowering energy bills, he said.

It would also create jobs in the region, although it is not yet clear how many. Mr Dyke said: “There has been quite a lot of talk about the new economy of renewable energy. It is a huge deal for Yorkshire and will create employment.”

A public exhibition was held this week and a planning application is expected to be submitted to Bradford Council in about six months.

But Anthea Orchard, of Halifax Road, Denholme Gate, is campaigning against the turbines. She has started a Facebook campaign and Thornton Moor Wind Farm Action Group.

She said: “At the exhibition they couldn’t tell us anything, even where the wind turbines would be. Everyone came out angry and frustrated.”

Shipley Tory MP Philip Davies, whose constituency includes Denholme, is supporting opposition to the wind farm. He aid: “I am intrinsically against wind farms on rural land because I am concerned that these things are a blight on the countryside.”