Two influential bodies have lodged strong objections to Kelda Water’s latest plan to erect replacement wind turbines at Chelker Reservoir.

The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority and English Heritage both say the scheme to erect two 75m turbines at the site between Addingham and Draughton would seriously harm the natural beauty of the area.

It is the water company’s third attempt to get planning permission to replace the existing four 45m high turbines, which are obsolete.

Craven District Council rejected a scheme for two 125-metre turbines in 2009 and Kelda withdrew a second planning application for three 80-metre structures this year.

The firm claims its latest application addresses previous concerns by reducing the height and number of turbines and moving them 65 metres to the south east, away from road access and nearby properties.

But the national park says the proposed structures would still be clearly visible from several vantage points, including historic Bolton Abbey, just 2.5 kilometres away.

In a report to the planning committee, Richard Graham, head of development management, said: “The landscape will not absorb significant intrusions without damaging the quality and enjoyment of the national park.

“It is considered that the proposed turbines are of such a scale that they will dominate and tame the expanse of the landscape and, as such, the eye will be drawn to them as an incongruous and dominating feature, thereby ruining the enjoyment of the natural beauty of this upland landscape.”

Mr Graham also argued the application failed to demonstrate that there were environmental, social or economic benefits that would outweigh or adequately mitigate the harm to nationally-important assets.

His comments are echoed by English Heritage.

In its representation, team leader Neil Redfern said the proposed turbines would harm the setting and significance of Bolton Abbey Priory and the Church of St Mary and St Cuthbert.

“Indeed, it is our view that the opportunity should be explored to secure the removal of the existing outdated turbines… which would enhance the setting of the priory site,” he added.

The application is expected to go before Craven’s planning committee in the new year, possibly as early as next month.