A new windfarm on the north Shropshire border would have only a “modest” impact in helping combat climate change, a public inquiry has heard.

Alan Taylor, from English Heritage, told the hearing at Woore Victory Hall that he formally objected to seven 110-metre tall wind turbines near Market Drayton when plans were tabled by applicant Nuon Renewables.

But under cross examination from Nuon barrister Mr Alan Newcombe, it emerged he had objected despite his organisation’s own literature branding climate change “one of the most challenging” problems it faces.

Mr Newcombe said yesterday: “English Heritage was established to preserve archaeological and historic sites, was it not?

“Its documents say climate change is one of the most challenging problems facing it today.”

Mr Taylor replied: “Yes, we still produce documents about how to prevent climate change and many historic sites have experienced changes because of the impact of climate change.

“It increases the risk of flooding and can cause infrastructure and building damage.

“However, this windfarm would contribute to tackling but not solving global warming issues.

“English Heritage recognises the need to tackle climate change and the use of windfarms in alternative energy generation.

“But I do not see how the erection of seven turbines at this site would make much of a significant change nationally to the climate.”

He added that there were heritage and cultural reasons why the windfarm bid should be refused.

He said views from Willoughbridge Lodge, a grade-II listed hunting lodge near the proposed windfarm, would be ruined if the scheme went ahead.

Mr Newcombe challenged Mr Taylor saying the windfarm would be fully reversible and could be dismantled after a period of 25 years’ use if deemed unpopular or unworkable.

Mr Taylor admitted the reversibility of the windfarm had “not been considered” in his original report to the now defunct North Shropshire District Council, which refused the plans last year.

Nuon is contesting the refusal of its plans for the windfarm and associated access road on farmland between Knighton and Bearstone.

The firm says the windfarm would create enough green energy to power about 6,000 homes.

The inquiry continues.