A SCHOOL in Stockton is hoping to install a wind turbine to generate its own electricity.

Governors from Bishopsgarth Secondary School have reacted positively to a feasibility study conducted by Northern Wind Energy.

The study outlines plans for a wind-powered generator, with blades that would reach a height of 45 meters.

It would be situated in the school grounds, 320 metres away from Harrogate Lane.

The turbine would be capable of producing 75 per cent of the school's energy needs and would pay for itself within five years.

Other more expensive, but similar-sized, turbines are being also considered that could produce even more power.

Stockton borough councillor for Bishopsgarth and Elm Tree, Suzanne Fletcher, said: "We have got to look at alternative ways of producing electricity and address the issues of global warming.

"It isn't about the North-East getting a little bit warmer, it's about storms and floods and severely adverse weather conditions all over the world.

"There is also the added benefit of the school being able to produce electricity for itself and the community, in times of emergency and if the power lines are down.

"And after five years, there is quite a tidy sum of money to be saved, and that is money which can be spent on children's education and could really give that school the edge."

Governors from the school are currently in consultation with Stockton Borough Council and members of Bishopsgarth Residents' Association.

Coun Fletcher said: "There weren't a lot of people who came along to the meetings, but those that did had a number of concerns.

"We are still at the finding-out stage, and we need to find out if there are any implications for road safety.

"And there are matters of personal taste. I would be interested in having one in my garden - I think they look very graceful and in years to come we will be seeing many households wanting them.

"But it is a very personal view, and it is not for me to impose my views on anyone and this matter will go through the proper planning process."