West Coast Energy blamed Derbyshire Dales and North East Derbyshire district councils for failing to make a decision within 16 weeks of its bid being submitted in January.

Director Matthew Hayes said: "This decision has been made after careful consideration. We have repeatedly sought to meet with NEDDC and DDDC planners and grown increasingly frustrated with the apparent lack of progress made in setting a date for determination at planning committee."

But Action Against Matlock Moor Windfarm Proposal said the move was disrespectful and showed the firm's plan to erect five 126 metre turbines was in crisis.

Group member Keith Moore said: "West Coast are clearly rattled that, on planning grounds, their application was heading for an extremely frosty reception from the elected representatives of the local communities who sit on the two relevant planning committees.

"This decision tells you everything you need to know about West Coast's colonial attitude towards Derbyshire – to them, it's just a greenfield site for development to further satisfy their appetite for profit," added Mr Moore.

The district councils said it was an "extremely complex" case with hundreds of comments, requiring more time than normal.

The Government Planning Inspectorate will accept representations until September 9. Comments already received by the district council planners will be forwarded and should not be re-submitted.

Comments can be made by post to: Planning Inspectorate, Room 4/04, Temple Quay House, 2 The Square, Temple Quay, Bristol, BS1 6PN or by clicking here.

Quote reference APP/R1038/A/09/2107667 for NEDDC and APP/P1045/A/09/2108037 for DDDC.