A renewable energy developer last night said that village opposition would not stop an application for wind turbines on the edge of Hempnall following the opening of a public consultation.

A long-running saga over a wind farm development in the south Norfolk village entered a new chapter when TCI Renewables displayed its plans for four 126m-high turbines off Bussey's Loke.

Officials from the Oxfordshire-based firm said they had taken on board residents views at an exhibition last year and reduced the height of the proposed masts.

However, members of SHOWT (Stop Hempnall's Onshore Wind Turbines) said they were preparing to fight the scheme, which they say will have a 'disastrous' impact on the landscape and local listed buildings.

Plans were first submitted for a seven turbine development off Bussey's Loke by Enertrag UK more than six years ago, which was rejected by South Norfolk councillors and by an inspector on appeal.

The new proposals at the site, known as Streetwood Wind Farm, would provide enough renewable energy for 5,200 homes and would boost community coffers by �400,000 over the 25 years of the project, claims TCI Renewables.

Peter Forest, project developer, said TCI aimed to submit a planning application to South Norfolk Council by Christmas.

He added that it did not matter if the majority of villagers opposed the scheme because there was support across the UK for onshore wind.

'If we are going to have cheap electricity, we are going to need onshore wind farms,' he said.

Hilary Battye, spokesman for SHOWT said: 'We do not want a prolonged fight with TCI, but we are fully prepared for it.

'The impact on the Grade I listed church and cultural heritage will be very strong.'

Michael Windridge, South Norfolk councillor for Hempnall, added: 'TCI's plans for a wind turbine development outside Hempnall represents a big money project for wealthy landowners and rich investors, which will desecrate the beautiful south Norfolk landscape