PLANS for a controversial wind farm were approved yesterday.

Renewable energy development company, Wind Prospect, was granted planning permission to install seven turbines at High Swainston Farm, near Wynyard.

The turbines, measuring 110m to the tip of the blade, will occupy about two hectares of farmland to the east of Sedgefield and Fishburn and south east of Trimdon.

Sedgefield Borough Council's development control committee visited the site yesterday before approving the plan.

Residents of all three neighbouring villages and the nearby Wynyard area had protested to the proposal, fearing it would have an adverse impact on the area.

Among the objections were fears that the turbines will be noisy and spoil the natural beauty of the area, especially views from the Castle Eden Walkway.

Objectors also feared the development would disturb native wildlife in particular bird and bat populations.

Charlie Walton, head of planning services, said: "We think the noise levels will be negligible and cannot consider any potential impact on house prices."

It is estimated that the wind farm will produce enough electricity to supply the annual needs of about 11,700 homes.