The company behind controversial proposals for a multi-million pound wind farm near Bradford says there is “significant” support for the scheme.

Independent market research commissioned by Banks Renewables for its proposed £12.5 million wind farm on Thornton Moor found 40 per cent of people interviewed were in favour of the development.

But of the 350 residents who took part in the telephone survey, 30 per cent were against the plans and 30 per cent were neither for nor against them.

The proposed development could include up to four turbines and would be able to produce up to 8MW of electricity, enough to power a town three times the size of nearby Denholme.

Phil Dyke, development director at Banks Renewables, said: “We have undertaken a great deal of work over the last 18 months to engage with people across local communities about the rationale for and benefits of the Thornton Moor Wind Farm, and we’re very pleased to see that more than two thirds of our survey respondents either supporting or maintaining a neutral opinion about our proposals.

“The scheme would produce enough renewable energy to meet the annual power requirements of up to 4,400 homes.”

Anthea Orchard, of Denholme Gate, who formed Thornton Moor Wind Farm Action Group last year to oppose the plans, said: “The company carried out a telephone survey that wasn’t consistent across the board. A lot of people didn’t feel they were able to offer their opinions because they weren’t called back. We feel there were flaws with the survey so we don’t think it’s got much weight.

“As time goes on we are putting more of our own time and money into showing people that there are alternatives. I have just invested £10,000 in solar panels. You don’t have to put up something as intrusive as a wind farm in to contribute to renewable energy targets.”