CAMPAIGNERS against a controversial Hampshire wind farm have sent out a strong message of protest.

Around 200 people gathered at the site of the proposed six turbine farm in Woodmancott Down, near Micheldever, north of Winchester.

The demonstration was organised by campaign group Save Our Scenic (SOS) Hampshire Downs.

The group argue that the 130metre-tall turbines will have a “extensive and significant adverse impact” on the countryside, as well as damage wildlife, and pose a risk to aircraft from nearby Popham Airfield.

Spokesman Jonathan Moseley said the turnout shows the unpopularity of the proposal from TCI Renewables.

He said: “It just goes to show the strength of feeling that is building up against this application.

“It is an opportunistic and speculative application.”

According to the company the wind farm would produce enough electricity to power 8,000 homes.

TCI bosses have pledged to give £2,500 to the community for every megawatt of electricity generated and according to the company’s planning statement this could equate to £37,500 each year.

More than 1,500 comments have been received since the application was lodged with Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council.

No date has yet been set for its development control committee to consider the plan.

Winchester City Council opposes the plans and said the turbines would have an “unacceptable impact upon the unspoilt landscape character of the area and its contribution to the setting of the South Downs National Park”.