Amazon wind turbine faces castle view objection
GooglePlans for a new wind turbine at an Amazon distribution centre, which locals said would "erode" their hamlet's heritage, have been recommended for refusal.
The multinational company is seeking planning permission to build the 410ft (125m) structure next to one of its centres in Bowburn, County Durham.
Tursdale Residents Association previously said the turbine would "tower over" the landscape.
Planning officers at Durham County Council have now recommended the plans are rejected, saying the turbine would affect views to and from Durham Castle and Cathedral.
They said the area was a World Heritage Site and the proposal would fail to "conserve, protect and enhance" it, and the turbine's public benefits would not outweigh that harm.
Amazon had reduced the size of the proposed turbine from its original 459ft (140m) height during the consultation.
The officers also said the turbine would affect the views of residents at Cornforth Moor Farm Cottage.
Councillors are due to decide on the plans on Friday.
Amazon previously said the turbine would cut the amount of fossil fuels required to power the distribution hub and its environmental impacts would be minimal.