PLANS for a wind turbine which, it was claimed, would have been higher than the central tower of York Minster, have been rejected by Ryedale planners.

But farmer Richard Bradley was told by the committee chairman Coun John Raper that if he sought permission for a lower structure, it would probably be approved, in line with Ryedale District Council’s general policy on turbines.

The height of the planned 500 watt turbine at Willerby Wold Pig Farm, Staxton, would have had an overall tip height of 77.9 metres and would generate electricity for the farm.

Mr Bradley told the committee that the farm spent £150,000 a year on energy.

But parish councillor Alan Jeffels, addressing the committee, said Willerby and Staxton Parish Council was against the turbine plan. “Its impact will more dramatic on the landscape than York Minster,” he said. The parish council was also concerned that the turbine would be a distraction to motorists on the A64 and potentially cause accidents.

David Hinde said it would impact on Ganton Golf Club and the Wolds Way walking route.

“We are in danger of trashing some of the finest scenery in North Yorkshire,” he said.

“A 255ft high turbine will dominate the landscape and will be seen from as far away as Filey, Rillington and Ebberston, and even on the boundary of the North York Moors National Park.

Coun Raper said that while Ryedale District Council generally supported individual turbines, he could not back this scheme but advised Mr Bradley to re-think the plan and submit one for a smaller construction.

Scarborough Civic Society and the Council for the Protection of Rural England had each opposed the scheme.