COUNCILLORS have narrowly refused an application to build a wind turbine that could power 550 homes.

Caradon councillors threw out the plan for a huge turbine at Redland High Down, Pensilva, on Wednesday evening.

Dozens of local residents applauded as planning committee members voted by seven to six – with one abstention – against the plan.

The vote followed a debate in a crowded council chamber. Others listened outside as the points were relayed over a public address system.

Planning officer Mark Andrews had reassured the public saying: 'This is something that affects us all and you need to trust that we are making our recommendation (for approval) as objective as possible based on the information that we have received.'

The application was for a 1.3 mega-watt wind turbine which would have stood at 80 metre (262ft) high.

Ignored

Danny Mageean, who spoke on behalf of the group Green Caradon Against Turbines (Green CATS), said: 'We feel that local views have been mostly ignored in this process.

'This landscape is Caradon's greatest asset and while we should be looking to save the earth, we should also look to preserve what is precious on it.'

Cllr John Turner, said: 'It's not that we are opposed to turbines but we just don't want it on this site.'

Speaking after the meeting, Mr Mageean said: 'Obviously we are delighted with the outcome.'