The first stage in pottery giant Wedgwood's radical green power plans using giant wind turbines is set to be given the go-ahead. Councillors are due to approve the firm's application to build a 160ft test mast to study wind speeds near its Barlaston headquarters over the next 18 months.

If the trial proves a success, Wedgwood - which employs more than 2,000 people in the Potteries - could press ahead with plans to build wind turbines to generate 15 per cent of its power through "green" electricity.

Officers at Stoke-on-Trent City Council have recommended approval of the experimental scheme, despite objections from residents and the fact that Wedgwood's premises are located within the Green Belt.

They say renewable energy schemes should be welcomed from an environmental point of view and that the steel mast will not be an eyesore.

But residents living on nearby housing estates in Trentham and Barlaston Park - claim the mast will be noisy, dominate the landscape and affect television and radio signals.

A report to the city council's development control committee states: "It is important to emphasise the only development to be considered at this stage is the wind monitoring mast.

"Many of the objectors have referred to the potential impact should actual wind turbines be constructed. These would, however, be subject to a separate planning application at a later date and only then could any such considerations be taken into account."

It also says that the mast, although "relatively high", would not be "particularly obtrusive" because it would be viewed against the backdrop of surrounding woodland.

Elaine Philpott, chairman of Barlaston Parish Council, said: "We have been consulted about these plans and obviously the Government at this moment in time is very keen on any kind of eco-friendly energy that can be produced.

"If the plans for a wind farm do go ahead, we would have to consider the size and sound of the project and we would hope to look at an existing farm to see and hear for ourselves."

If councillors approve the plans at Thursday's meeting, the mast - which will be held in place by guy wires - will monitor wind conditions in the area. If the results are positive, Wedgwood will consider erecting 330ft wind turbines which could cut the firm's carbon dioxide emissions by up to 1,500 tonnes a year.

A company spokesman said: "The wind monitoring mast, if approved, would be used to assess the viability of wind power as an option for Wedgwood, which is continuing its drive to maintain its reputation as one of Britain's leading environmentally friendly companies."

nick.coligan@thesentinel.co.uk