A PLYMOUTH school is celebrating after finally installing wind turbines on its campus after a bitter three-year dispute.

Coombe Dean School in Plymstock said it had taken a major step in reducing its carbon footprint with the 20 metre-high structures.

The wind turbines will also be used to educate students about how to take care of the environment.

The school admitted that the scheme had met 'determined and vociferous opposition from local residents', and it was refused permission by the city council.

Neighbours branded the turbines an eyesore, claimed they would make too much noise and were worried about the flickering from the whirring blades. Some even feared a blade could snap off and cause an accident.

However, the school took the application to a planning appeal and an inspector decided in November to grant permission.

"I consider that, on balance, the limited visual harm would be clearly outweighed by the practical benefits to the school and the wider environmental, economic and social benefits," he said.

The school said the turbines would meet between 20 and 25 per cent of its electricity needs and save up to 30 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions every year.

However, staff added that the main benefit of the turbines would be to inspire and educate the pupils.

The school already has other environmental energy sources: solar panels on the roof and a ground source heating pump.

Data from the turbines will be loaded on to the school's IT network and used in lessons, alongside that from Coombe Dean's other energy sources.

Headteacher Pattrick Frean said: "Most people, including our own students, are wondering what the fuss was about. They look at the turbines and say, 'Is that it?'.

"The turbines are in keeping with the size of the school buildings."