What follows is a joint statement issued by Cumbria County Council, Eden District Council, Lake District National Park Authority, South Lakeland District Council and Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority.
All the authorities acted together in objecting to the windfarm application at the public inquiry in 2005 and hired a single barrister to make their case.
"We are delighted with the Government’s decision to back the inspector’s finding and refuse consent for the 24 wind turbines at Whinash. It shows the Government is committed to protecting the landscape in one of England’s most beautiful areas.
"It is particularly good news for the people living nearby who opposed the scheme from the start.
"The inspectors concluded, and ministers agreed, that in this case the harm this development would cause outweighs the benefits it might bring. Broadly speaking that was the case that we jointly argued at the Public Inquiry.
"However, we also recognize that it is important not to underestimate the prediction of climate change impact. We will continue to look positively at projects which seek the sensitive exploitation of renewable energy sources on an appropriate scale and in appropriate locations."