The wind turbine at the district council offices at Whitfield, fitted in 2007, is to be scrapped.

“With time and use, the turbine developed a fault in 2012.A council spokesman said: “The turbine was important as not only did it generate renewable energy, but it helped to raise the profile of environmental matters, and was used for educational purposes.

“The turbine was assessed for repairs, but as well as the cost of the repairs, it was clear that the industry and technology had developed, and that the company who supplied the turbine had ceased trading, causing difficulties regarding the availability of parts and servicing arrangements.

"It was considered that the repair costs and ongoing maintenance issues meant that it was no longer viable and sustainable to keep the turbine.

“However, the council remains committed to sustainable technology, and continues to look at options for the future.”