Eon’s revised layout for the proposed Wind Farm near Newton Aycliffe has distinct possibilities of being accepted. Reducing the number of turbines to 24 has significantly lessened the environmental impact which so many people opposed.

There are still some concerns and Eon won’t get it all their own way, even with the promised £190,000 kickback a year for local projects.

If it does receive permission there will be fun and games over who will decide who and what gets this sizeable chunk of cash each year. We understand a board of trustees will be appointed or elected to choose which applications for cash will be approved.

It is hoped politicians do not get these positions and that ordinary people get a chance to pick what projects would benefit the area.

Lets also hope, unlike AAP money, there is no exorbitant administration charge in dispensing the cash. If it’s kept out of the hands of the County Council the whole amount can be spent locally.