PLANNING officers are recommending a huge wind farm in Hampshire be rejected.

EDF Renewables wants to build 14 turbines up to 126m tall on farmland near Bullington Cross north of Winchester.

It would be the biggest onshore windfarm in Hampshire.

But planning officers at Winchester, Test Valley and Basingstoke and Deane councils all say the scheme near the A34/A303 junction should be rejected.

There will be a meeting of all three planning committees at Winchester Guildhall on Monday June 16. The final decision will be made by councillors.

Douglas Paterson, of Keep Hampshire Green, said he was thrilled by the officers’ recommendation “We are not out of the woods but we are looking more positive. A lot of people have been desperately worried. It has caused a huge strain and so we are relieved.”

Mr Paterson said the councillors would have to have very strong reasons to go against their officers.

Martin Heath, of Hampshire Renewable Energy Co-operative, which supports the scheme, said: “We are disappointed but it is for the councillors to consider all the facts.”

Mr Heath said there was strong support for the scheme, with 2,800 registered supporters, including many people who live in the Bullington area.

The co-operative is negotiating a community stake in the proposed wind farm and are staging a demonstration in support before the meeting at Winchester Guildhall.

EDF says the 28 MW wind farm will generate enough electricity for 15,100 homes.