COUNCIL planners have given the thumbs-up for a wind turbine at a Portland school.

But they want a review in two years' time to be sure that noise by the turbine does not cause a problem for people living nearby.

The consent means that a nine-metre tall turbine can be installed at the edge of the playing field at Southwell Primary School.

Members of Dorset County Council's planning committee gave consent after postponing a decision in June so that they could see a turbine in action. They viewed a similar one at Sydling St Nicholas.

Chris Stokes, the county council's team leader of development control, said the nearest property was the former caretaker's bungalow.

Mr Stokes said: "I talked to the occupier, who does not object and is in favour of it. But I would like to protect that property with a two-year review. If there is no problem then the school can apply again."

He said potential noise was one of two issues to be considered - the other was the visual impact.