IT was mixed emotions for east Cleveland residents when planning inspectors ruled on two challenges for planning applications for windfarms in the area.

The planning inspectorate dismissed an appeal from Empirica Investments Ltd to erect a 67m high turbine at Ridge Farm, near Stanghow.

However, another appeal for a 90m mast on land near Kilton Thorpe has been approved on the third time of asking.

The application for the 90m turbine on land at Greenhills Farm was rejected by Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council in September last year and a subsequent appeal was dismissed.

Councillor Steve Kay, who represents residents in both villages for borough council, said: “This is a great disappointment, especially as the previous appeal was dismissed.

"There should be adequate separation distances set down by law to stop these monstrous turbines dominating people’s homes and blighting their lives."

Kilton Thorpe resident Ted McNicholls added: “This is a great disappointment particularly after the previous inspector’s decision. Kilton Lane is the only access to the turbine site; it is narrow and winding and there will be real traffic problems during the construction period.”

It was a different story for residents living in Stanghow when planning inspector David Cullingford rejected the appeal against the council’s decision to refuse permission for the turbine.

Harry Bennetts, who has lived in Stanghow for 57 years, said: “The turbine would be a blot on the landscape. We do not need them on our doorstep. The place for wind turbines is well out at sea. We have a wonderful community but in all the time I’ve lived here, this is the most unsettling thing that has ever happened.”

Parish councillor Sandra Young said: “We got the right result because the community pulled together against the turbine. It was a long hard fight but well worth the effort.”

Coun Kay added: “I am overjoyed that the inspector has supported the Council. It would be a tragedy if, after all their efforts to improve the environment, the people of Stanghow were to get an extremely obtrusive wind turbine on their doorstep.

"There is already a towering meteorological mast there and that is bad enough. Luckily it is only temporary.”