AN application to build a meteorological mast to determine whether a farm site in Heighington is suitable for a wind farm will be discussed next month.

The application by EDF Energy to build a 50-metre mast on land at Royal Oak Farm was approved by Heighington Parish Council.

Members heard the mast would be 6in diameter and anchored at four points.

If it is approved by Darlington Borough Council's planning committee next month, the mast could be in place for up to two years.

A spokesman for EDF Energy said: "It is really to see if it is a good site and the only way we can do that is by putting a mast like this up."

Mr David Hull, owner of Royal Oak Farm, said he was in favour of wind farms because they produced safe, renewable energy, but explained they would not know if the land was suitable until information had been gathered using the mast, if it is approved.

"We are on an elevated position so it might be suitable, but we have to have this mast up for a period of months so it can be looked at properly. Then we will have to take it from there, if the site is viable," he said.