Suffolk coast Galloper offshore windfarm given go-ahead

The Galloper field expansion is expected to be finished by 2017

The expansion of an offshore windfarm that the government says could power up to 500,000 homes and boost Suffolk's economy by £20m has been approved.

An extra 140 turbines will be erected at the Greater Gabbard windfarm and power will come ashore at Sizewell.

The Department of Energy and Climate Change (Decc) said the scheme could create 600 jobs.

Onshore work is expected to start this year with the project due to be finished by 2017.

A spokesman for Decc said: "Galloper Wind Farm will provide large amounts of clean energy, support jobs and generate major investment in Suffolk.

"Offshore wind has an important role to play as a part of a balanced energy mix.

"This development will enhance our energy security and help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions."