Fay Jones has said erecting wind turbines on unspoilt countryside is "not the answer" amid discussions about a proposed wind farm in Radnor Forest.

The Brecon and Radnorshire MP attended a public consultation event last week in Llanelwedd to discuss the planned proposals - named Nant Mithil Energy Park.

Bute Energy, who hosted the event, is proposing to build 36 wind turbines in Radnor Forest in addition to a 60-mile trail of electricity pylons, stretching from Llandyfaelog in Carmarthenshire, through Llangammarch Wells and across the Sennybridge Training Area.

Ms Jones has spoken out against the proposals, highlighting the damage to the natural landscape caused by unnecessarily tall turbines and pylons.  

“I was so glad to be able to speak to constituents in Llanelwedd last week on Bute’s proposals. We must not minimise the impact these proposals will have on our countryside and natural environment," said Ms Jones.

"It is disruptive to say the least.”

Since the wind farm plans emerged, residents have attended consultation events where they have raised concerns about the proximity of the wind turbines to homes. There are also worries about potential environmental damage erecting the wind turbines and pylons could have on the natural environment.

Ms Jones said: “Local residents are rightly outraged that 220m high wind turbines will be planted next door to their homes. I understand the need for greater energy security in this country however I will continue arguing that the erection of wind turbines in unspoilt countryside is not the answer. Onshore wind is the go-to option because it’s cheap. But our countryside isn’t. Nor is our environment, our quality of life and our rural economy.

"There are a multitude of other options, and I would strongly suggest that the Welsh Government recognises the strength of feeling on this and considers alternative solutions.

“I will continue to campaign against these proposals and would like to hear from you whatever your opinion may be. If you are against these proposals there is a petition on my website that I would appreciate you signing.”

Ms Jones had previously joined around 400 people in Llanelwedd last month in a meeting hosted by the Countryside Alliance, when residents heard from the Campaign to Protect Rural Wales (CPRW), and were advised on how to create a steering group to campaign against the plans.

Bute Energy says wind farms, such as the Nant Mithil Energy Park proposal, can play an important role in increasing renewable energy generation within Wales and "securing affordable energy security" for the UK.