THE ERECTION of controversial wind monitoring masts in Teesside will go ahead before the end of the month.

Despite public outcry, the two 60m masts will be installed at the site of a proposed new windfarm on agricultural land north of Guisborough.

There had been angry scenes at a planning meeting in December when the application for the building of the masts was approved.

Almost 100 letters of opposition to the application had been received and residents protested outside the meeting expressing concern about the installation of the masts, with many saying it would spoil the landscape, would have a detrimental effect on local wildlife and would increase noise levels in the area.

The masts will be used to assess wind conditions on the site and will record weather data for a temporary period of three years.

Erection work is scheduled to begin during the week of Monday January 28 and is expected to last around two days. Local traffic should not be disrupted during the work.

For further information about the proposed Bank Field windfarm scheme, contact the Banks Renewables’ community engagement team on 0844-2091515.