Dismay for campaigners as wind farm is approved

Plans to build three 125m-tall wind turbines near two villages have been given the go-ahead.

Broadview Energy has been given permission by Stockton Borough Council planning committee to build the wind farm on land between Seamer and Hilton, between Stokesley and Yarm.

This was a revised application by the company, as councillors refused the initial scheme in October last year, stating they wanted more detailed information.

At the planning meeting on Wednesday, the members' vote was tied at five all after a proposal was put forward to refuse the application, but the chairman, Coun Roy Rix, was given the casting vote and agreed with the planning officers' recommendation to approve the scheme.

Campaigners who prevented the original scheme from going ahead said they felt "betrayed" following the result.

Broadview Energy is now awaiting the outcome of an application for two further 125m-high wind turbines in the same area, which fall under Hambleton District Council's jurisdiction.

This is expected to go before planners before the end of the year.

The developer claims the £15m wind farm would generate enough energy for 6,500 homes.

A total of 200 representations of support and 410 letters of objection had been submitted to Stockton Borough Council.

The objectors, many of whom attended the meeting, were concerned about the visual impact of the turbines on the landscape and residential areas, the impact on Hilton during construction, the close proximity to the road and pylons, effects on local wildlife and concerns about house prices being devalued.

The Seamer and Hilton Windfarm Action Group (Shwag) received the support of local MPs Dari Taylor and William Hague in their fight to prevent the application going through.

During the meeting, a number of Shwag members and Hilton residents spoke of their concerns. Councillors were also given the chance to voice their opinions.

Coun Jennie Beaumont said: "I have spent hours reading this report.

We have to take serious consideration of the characteristics of the landscapes."

She added: "We are in the position we were a year ago. There are still a lot of unresolved issues."

Coun John Fetcher said: "I am in favour of wind turbines, but that doesn't mean I am in favour of this one."

Coun Jim Beall said: "It is not about the rights and wrongs of wind turbines.

"It is about the place where the turbines could be built."

Speaking after the meeting, Rita Sinclair, of Shwag, said they would be holding discussions to decide what to do next.

She said: "It is a great shame, given all that we have said.

"We think it is a dreadful thing.

This wonderful landscape is a terrific asset and it feels like it has been sold for 30 pieces of silver.

"We need to consider our position now. We have a lot to think about."

Jeff Corrigan, of Broadview Energy, said: "We didn't know which way it was going to go. We are very pleased with the way it has turned out.

"The planning officers did a great job and looked into the application with great detail.

"We now have to wait and see what happens with Hambleton District Council before we can get started with anything."