Wind turbines blocked amid cheers from local residents

The controversial siting of two 107-metre masts at Stanley Moss, County Durham, looked set to be given the go-ahead following recommendations by council officials.

Instead, after a heated debate, members of Wear Valley District Council's Development Control Committee ruled against the plans by developer Amec and landowners the Banks Group.

People from Stanley Crook and Sunniside, near Tow Law, turned out in force at the meeting at Crook Civic Centre last night to protest against the turbines, which they said were too near homes.

They are also concerned about outline proposals for up to six turbines at Broom Hill and at Nackshiven Farm, near Tanners Hall, which are currently being discussed by council officials.

Caroline Robinson, on behalf of the residents, urged the committee to refuse the plans, saying they would be detrimental to the quality of life for people nearby.

She said villagers feared for their health because of low frequency noise, and that sun glinting off the blades could affect epilepsy sufferers.

A spokesman for the developer said the fears were unfounded. He said the plans met industry and Government guidelines and the effect on residents had been considered greatly.

Councillors sided with villagers and said they felt there were too many unanswered questions for the wind farm to be approved.

Councillor Ron Grogan, from Tow Law, said: "I appreciate that we have to move on and that in the future we are going to need some sort of energy for the generations to come, but I am not happy that there are so many unanswered questions.

"This is just the start. There is more of this sort of thing to come and if we give this one the go-ahead and there are problems, we will not have leg to stand on when it comes to refusing others in the future.''

After the meeting, campaigner Ken Ross said: "We are pleased to see that sense has prevailed and that the councillors have listened to what the people want."