It is hoped Blackpool's windy coast will boost energy levels

Council officials are putting up three turbines initially to work out how cost effective the wind energy will be.

It is hoped they will then be a permanent fixture to help meet energy demands across the town.

Powering street lighting, traffic signs, municipal buildings and the resort's light show cost the council about �1m a year, it has said.

The turbines - close to Sandcastle Waterworld - could be in place by spring next year.

Councillor Roy Fisher, leader of Blackpool Council, said: "We have a responsibility to our council tax payers to reduce costs where ever possible.

The illuminations make extra demands on Blackpool's energy

"Our initial experience of the two wind turbines at the Solaris Centre has indicated that they could be very cost effective.

"We have therefore instigated this pilot to give us further evidence to consider a wider project.

"Geographically Blackpool is in a tremendous position to harness the power of the wind and turn it to our advantage."

The council says that the illuminations, although a "key element" of the town, means it uses more power than other councils.

It says the wind energy could be "an important step forward in creating a more sustainable future".