Campaigners have called for plans for a Llandegley wind farm to be scrapped ahead of a public inquiry into the project.

The application for seven wind turbines to be built at Llandegley Rhos, beside the Llandegley Rocks, was turned down by Powys planning committee last year, with an 11 to one against vote.

But developers Hendy Wind Farm Ltd have appealed the decision with the planning inspectorate, and a five-day public inquiry is due to take place in Llandrindod Wells next week.

Ahead of the proceedings, campaigning group the Open Spaces Society(OSS) have renewed their calls for the scheme to be shelved in a statement released this week.

"On the eve of the public inquiry into Hendy Wind Farm’s appeal against Powys County Council’s refusal of planning permission for seven wind-turbines near Llandegley Rocks, we have renewed our call for rejection of the plans," read the statement.

"We are backing the Campaign for the Protection of Rural Wales and many other organisations and individuals who oppose the scheme. In written evidence to the inquiry we argue that the turbines would desecrate the beautiful countryside around Llandegley, five miles east of Llandrindod Wells, Powys.

"We object to the turbines because they would destroy the natural beauty and people’s quiet enjoyment of the splendid landscape, marring the views of and from the prominent Llandegley Rocks. They would interfere with public paths and access land including registered common.

"Moreover, we have revealed that if the turbines are built they may be in breach of inclosure awards and therefore unlawful."

The society's general secretary, Kate Ashbrook also added: "From the slopes and summit of Llandegley Rocks the view is breathtaking, with a glorious sweep which takes in the hills and mountains of Wales, including the Brecon Beacons to the south. This view would be utterly destroyed by the siting of wind turbines here, and a massive area of great natural beauty and cultural significance would be irreparably damaged."

"We have urged the inspector to reject the appeal and ensure this beautiful, much-loved landscape can remain unspoilt."

The public inquiry into the proposals begins on Tuesday, March 13 at The Mid Wales Pavillion, Llandrindod Wells.