A NATIONAL energy company is hoping to develop a windfarm with up to eight turbines in the North-East, providing electricity for 8,000 homes.

Broadview Energy Ltd has submitted a document to Hambleton and Stockton councils about the scheme being set up on land between Seamer and Hilton, near Yarm, near Stockton.

The information outlines the proposed scope of the environmental impact assessment for between three and eight wind turbines.

Jeff Corrigan, managing director of Broadview Energy, said the company hopes to work closely with residents and landowners to consider their views in the design of the project.

Public exhibitions will be held in the spring.

Each wind turbine is expected to generate more than five million kilowatts a year. The initial survey by the company indicates the site has the capacity to cater for up to 8,000 homes.

Mr Corrigan said: "We are not doing a lot about it at the moment.

We want to find out what the environmental impact will be and then we will go out to public consultation.

"We will definitely talk to parish councils and nearby residents.

This is when we will show the initial plans and get feedback on them.

"We picked this site because it is well away from nearby houses."

He added: "Only after we have had a consultation will we submit a planning application."

Danny Maher, Broadview Energy project manager, said: "The project, which will help fight climate change, is well located near to existing electricity transmission lines and has a good wind resource."

For more information on the Seamer windfarm plan, visit www.seamerwindfarm.co.uk