AN EMERGENCY meeting has been called to discuss plans to build a huge wind turbine.

The proposed turbine — at Meadow Barn Field, off Slack Lane in Bradshaw — will measure 45 metres up to its tip.

This will make it taller than the famous Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro.

Concerned neighbours, who say the turbine is too big, have organised a meeting and more than 200 people are expected to attend.

Paul Joule, of High Bank Farm, has submitted to planning application, which will enable him to reduce the carbon emissions and energy bills of his farm and to increase self sufficiency in terms of electricity production.

Neighbour Robert Byrom, aged 62, owner of the Shippon at nearby Harryfold Farm, said: “I’m not against renewable energy but this is too big and not suitable so close to a residential area.

“I’m particularly annoyed because I wasn’t informed about the plan — and there are also lots of things in the application that I think are flawed and I will bring these up at the meeting.”

It is believed a planning meeting has been pushed back to allow time for residents to be properly notified about the proposals.

Mr Byrom’s son, Mark, aged 45, said he has also not been informed.

He added: “I’m surprised that we weren’t told about this.”

Bolton Council said it has a duty to consider all planning applications using standardised procedures which includes consultations with local residents.

A council spokesman said: “This application is at an early stage in the process and no view has been taken as to its acceptability.”

More consultation on the plans will be held.

The plan has been submitted with the help of Wind Turbine Project Management Services.

A company spokesman said: “Careful consideration has been given to the siting of the turbine in order to minimise any detrimental effects on the landscape.”

The residents’ meeting will be held at the Methodist Hall in Longsight Road, Harwood at 7pm on Wednesday.