It will be built at Westwood Country Park to the north of the city, under plans unveiled by Sheffield City Council.

The country park, which is owned by the council, is used by the community for dog walking and fishing. The council has said that the public access rights would be maintained during the construction work and after the development is completed.

A developer is expected to be chosen by the end of this year, with the site operational by late 2009.

It is thought that between 2 and 6 turbines of between 60 and 100 metres in height could be located on the site. These would provide a generating capacity of up to 12 MW, equivalent to providing enough electricity for several thousand homes.

Councillor Mary Lea, the council's Cabinet member for Sustainable Environment said: "I see this as a significant milestone in the Council's commitment to developing sustainable energy sources. However, we are committed to consulting fully with local residents and users of the park to ensure we find the very best solution for all those involved."

The council has stressed the successful contractor will be required to engage fully with the community

---