PLANS to build three 125-metre high wind turbines at a beauty spot have been approved at the second time of asking.

Broadview Energy has been given permission by Stockton Borough Council’s planning committee to build the windfarm on land between Seamer and Hilton, near Stockton.

It was a revised application by the company after councillors refused an initial scheme in October last year saying they wanted more detailed information.

At the planning meeting yesterday, the members’ vote was tied at five-all after a proposal was put forward to refuse the application, but chairman Councillor Roy Rix was given the casting vote and he agreed with the planning officer’s recommendation to approve it.

Campaigners who successfully prevented the original scheme from going ahead, said they feel betrayed following the result.

Broadview Energy is now awaiting the outcome of an application for two further 125mhigh wind turbines in the same area, which fall under Hambleton District Council’s jurisdiction.

It is expected to go before planners before the end of the year.

The developer said the £15m windfarm would generate enough energy for 6,500 homes.

A total of 200 representations of support and 410 letters of objection had been submitted to Stockton Borough Council.

The objectors, many of whom attended yesterday’s meeting, were concerned about the visual impact of the turbines on the landscape and residential areas, impact on Hilton during construction, the proximity to the road and pylons, effects on local wildlife and concerns about house prices being devalued.

Speaking after the meeting, Rita Sinclair, of the Seamer and Hilton Windfarm Action Group, said they would hold discussions to decide what to do next.

She said: “It is a great shame, given all we have said. We think it is a dreadful thing. This wonderful landscape is a terrific asset and it feels like it has been sold for 30 pieces of silver.

“We need to consider our position now. We have a lot to think about.”

Jeff Corrigan, of Broadview Energy, said: “We did not know which way it was going to go. We are very pleased with the way it has turned out.

“The planning officers did a great job and looked into the application in great detail.

“We now have to wait and see what happens with Hambleton District Council before we can get started with anything.”