Many residents living near the proposed locations of the turbines, which would stand 100 metres high, say they are just too big for the site.

The 2.3 mega watt turbines would produce one third of the university's electricity and would be built on land at Hazelrigg, to the east of the M6, if plans are given the go-ahead.

Glynn Woon, who runs kennels in Hazelrigg Lane, said the turbines would be just 260 metres from his property, something that would be illegal in Scotland and Wales, he claimed.

"We don't object to wind turbines but these are just too big for the location.

"In Wales, turbines have to be at least 500 metres from properties, while in Scotland, it's two kilometres.

"We would be happier if the university adopted smaller turbines closer to the university site."

Betty Parkinson, also from Hazelrigg Lane, said: "If the university is really interested in carbon reduction, attention should be paid to the amazing amount of electricity used in lighting the campus and also the overheating of buildings.

"The millions available in grants should go into ground source and solar heating systems before they start thinking of disrupting the peace of the surrounding countryside with these monstrosities."

Lancaster City Council are currently consulting on the proposals, which have so far attracted at least 20 objections, including one from Ellel Parish Council.

The city council's environmental health officer has also asked for the consultation period to be extended for further investigation into the impact of noise and "shadow flicker" on nearby residents.

A Lancaster University spokes-person said the proposals had been developed within current guidance regarding proximity to housing, roads and impact on ecology.

The deadline for consultation responses is tomorrow, Saturday.