The development will see 26 100-metre-high turbines being erected in the Rossendale Valley.

United Utilities (UU) said it would build the windfarm on Scout Moor, near Edenfield, if it gets the go-ahead.

Environmental campaigners say they will try and block the plan, which requires approval from environment secretary Margaret Beckett.

Construction jobs

UU said the site for the farm has been chosen because it is the windiest place in the county and could produce enough electricity to supply the whole of the Rossendale Valley.

The company, which is working in partnership with developers Peel Holdings, have also pledged to provide �1m for community projects.

Up to 130 construction jobs would also be created under the plan, according to the company.

A public consultation exhibition about the plans is being held at Rawtenstall Unitarian Church, on Saturday 14 June.