Wind farms are spreading like a cancer and Teesdale must not be seen as a soft touch by green energy firms, the chairman of Durham County Council says.

Cllr Brian Myers visited Bolam recently to find out more about Npower's plan to build a wind farm near the village.

The unitary authority's chairman told residents that he was worried about the spread of wind farms in County Durham.

He said: "At Tow Law, there are 32 turbines. Once they get a hold, they spread like a cancer. That's the danger for the people of Bolam."

Residents of Bolam have formed a campaign group, Bolam Area Action Group (BAAG), to fight Npower's proposal.
About 25 people greeted Cllr Myers, from Willington, during his visit.

He said: "Just because County Durham is a former industrial area, it can't be looked on as a soft touch."
However, he warned that it was up to the council's planning committee to have a "sensible" approach when Npower's plan is considered.

"If the councillors turn it down, the company can appeal and it could end up costing the council a lot of money," he said. "I can't influence their decision and, in that respect, have to be neutral.

"But I am concerned about the situation. The plan isn't right for Bolam."

The chairman praised the spirit of the protestors, saying Npower had a fight on its hands. Kathy Pagella, from BAAG, said she was pleased with his response.

"It's excellent news for the village. He really listened to our concerns," she said.

BAAG members have joined forces with campaigners at Hamsterley, who are opposing plans to build a wind farm near the village of Woodland.

Last week, Banks Developments applied for planning permission to erect a 60-metre wind monitoring mast for three years at Woodland.

The company hopes to find out whether the land, which is called Windy Bank, is suitable for turbines.