A COMPANY behind a controversial wind farm proposal is appealing against a council's decision to reject the scheme.

But one of the members of a group which battled long and hard against the plans say they will "fight it to the bitter end".

Blaenau Gwent's planning committee threw out the application for four 328-foot high turbines on Mynydd James, between Cwmtillery and Blaina earlier this year.

Pennant Wind Ventures has now lodged an appeal with the Planning Inspectorate which will be decided by an independent expert.

A battle to keep the mountainside clear of wind turbines began in 2003 with proposals for 24 turbines but this was later scaled down to four.

The initial scheme was withdrawn in 2004 but Pennant put forward fresh plans in the Spring of 2007 which were finally refused in January this year.

Developers said the project would have provided an important boost for the economy, providing £2 million in local construction contracts and £500,000 for community trust funds over its lifetime.

However, opponents were worried about the stability of the site, the visual impact, the potential negative effect on tourism, noise pollution and wildlife.

Farmer Derek Jones, of SCAM (Save Coity and Mynydd James), said it would be built in what was currently a lovely, peaceful area and too close to his property.

He was not surprised that the company was appealing.

"We will fight to the very last and whatever the outcome is we will abide by that."