The application was considered by the authority's Planning Committee on Tuesday, when members voted 14 to three against the scheme submitted by Derbyshire Wind Energy.

It comes as Derbyshire Dales District councillors – who were jointly considering proposals for a further two turbines at the site as part of the cross-boundary application – also ruled to oppose the scheme yesterday.

The decisions of both councils, along with all representations made by members of the public and other stakeholders, will now be considered as evidence at a public inquiry which is due to make a final ruling on the scheme in the new year.

A spokesman for NEDDC said: "This has been an extremely complex and unusual application to consider – one which must balance the need for renewable energy with the need to protect our landscape and the amenity of our residents.

"Having taken into account all of the information before them, members of the planning committee do not support this scheme.

"This is an area of open moorland which can be viewed from the Peak District National Park and this proposal would detract from the special quality, tranquillity and character of this landscape, along with neighbouring heritage sites.

"The area is also a desirable living environment, supports significant visitor accommodation facilities and is well used for the recreation of both residents and visitors.

"The visual presence and noise of the proposed turbines will reduce the attractiveness of the area and thereby the important contribution which tourism and recreation make to the local economy.

"In addition, the site has also been identified as important for a variety of wildlife species, and a full impact of how these will be affected by the proposals has not been carried out."

The application is to be considered by the Planning Inspectorate in February 2010 after the applicants appealed against 'non-determination' on the grounds that the authorities took longer than the target times to consider their applications.

A spokesperson for both councils added: "The process took longer than usual as it is an extremely complex and important application. It was essential for elected members to have the information they need to be able to make a wholly informed decision."