A POPULAR golf course could become the region’s first to be powered by wind.

Owners of Douglas Valley Golf Club, off the Blackrod Bypass, in Blackrod, want to erect two wind turbines of almost 100 feet each.

They will measure 147ft when the rotor blades point up.

But residents are concerned as the wind turbines would be on green-belt land.

Paul Downes owns the golf course, which is also known as Chilli Dip Golf.

No other club in the North West currently has wind turbines.

A report to Bolton Council from Mr Downes’ representatives said: “The very special circumstances which justify such developments within the green belt — namely the contribution to sustainable energy production — have been recognised in relation to other turbine applications including at Scout Moor and at Harry Fold Farm in Bradshaw Road, Bolton.”

It added: “The wind turbines will produce electricity for the complex.

“It is also hoped that some income will be generated from the sale of surplus electricity exported to the National Grid “The proposed turbines will be located within the golf course.

“Careful thought has been given to site of the turbines to minimise any detrimental effects on the landscape.”

Mr Downes is also trying to get the Government’s backing so he can build a woodfuelled electricity generator at Markland Farm, near the golf course.

John Price, chairman of Blackrod and Horwich Environmental Action Group, said: “We would like to know if these turbines would be instead of the wood burner or as well as.

“If it’s both, the amount of electricity that will be generated from that area will be phenomenal.

“There is a concern over noise and the fact it is on green belt land.

“We will look at the application in an objective manner and will decide our position.”

The council is aiming to reach a decision by November 3.