AN energy firm's appeal to establish an opencast mine and erect two wind turbines was adjourned yesterday.

After Durham County Council refused permission for the development, in January, Eco Energy lodged an appeal.

The company wants to set up an opencast mine on 143.5 acres of farmland between Old Quarrington, Coxhoe and the nearby A1(M) interchange at Bowburn.

It would extract 750,000 tonnes of coal over three-and-a-half years, before restoring the site for a hotel, fast food restaurant, pub and light industrial development.

The plans include two wind turbines, which would be erected within a short distance of people's homes, at either end of an escarpment between Old Quarrington and the A1(M).

Yesterday's appeal was adjourned after Eco Energy submitted a late amendment to the plans.

It is expected that the hearing will be rescheduled for early next year, at Bowburn Community Centre