PROPOSALS to build a 127-metre wind turbine at the Eden Project – the same height as the London Eye – were sent to planners yesterday.

Eden wants a two-megawatt turbine at the northern end of the site, which would generate more than enough electricity to supply the tourist destination each year.

The plans have been submitted to Restormel Borough Council following a positive consultation with the local community. Gus Grand, Eden's climate change programme manager, said: "We wanted to have an open and honest conversation with Eden's local community and we're pleased with the positive outcome at this first stage. We now look forward to the proposal going through the planning process and engaging with the community and others in the formal consultation that the borough council will undertake." A public exhibition at Trethurgy Village Hall in August sought the views of Eden's neighbours on the physical impact of the turbine, as well as ways that the community could benefit from the scheme.

The Cornwall Sustainable Energy Partnership provided independent advice and technical information during the process.

There was a good turnout for the consultation, with 100 neighbours and 20 councillors sharing their views. Five letters about the scheme were also received.

The findings showed that 86% of people thought that Eden should be using renewable energy, and 72% supported the proposal – this was a combination of 58% who supported it outright and 14% who supported 'with reservations'.

Eden is keen that the turbine would be a positive feature in the area and invited the community to give its views on what tangible benefits the project could give them back across its lifetime.

A vast majority, 94%, felt that a community fund was a good idea.

Eden will be continuing its conversation with local communities and the wider public throughout the process. More details about the proposal can be found on the website www.edenproject.com/behind-the-scenes/eden-clean-energy/index.php