Astronomer Tom Boles's Coddenham wind turbine victory

Mr Boles claimed vibrations from the turbine would affect his telescopes

A proposal for a wind turbine near a Suffolk observatory has been turned down by councillors.

Coddenham Hall Farm wanted to build the structure in Coddenham, generating objections from some villagers, including astronomer Tom Boles.

He said the vibrations would ruin his work capturing images of supernovae.

Mid Suffolk District Council's planning committee voted to reject the plan, despite council officers recommending it could be approved.

Mr Boles, who lives next door to the farm and has three telescopes housed in his garden searching for exploding stars, said: "It's a really good, common-sense decision and the main reason was the danger to the observatory and the disruption to its work.

'World class facilities'

"There was absolutely no doubt that it would have been a problem.

"There could be an appeal, but I'm feeling very optimistic."

Tim Passmore, leader of Mid Suffolk District Council and ward member for Coddenham, said: "I am particularly pleased that the committee refused permission as there was not a full enough understanding of the astronomical facility.

"The committee felt that there was not enough evidence to show the lack of impact the turbine would have on the area and also to the observatory.

"When we have world class facilities like the observatory, it is important that we look after them and I was delighted that everybody on the committee recognised that."

The farm has been unavailable for comment.