Plans to build an 11,500 panel solar farm on 12 fields at Halvasso were given the thumbs up by Cornwall Council today.

The application, from Lightsource Renewable Energy Ltd, attracted much opposition from neighbouring residents who have lobbied the council since the plans first appeared last October and were out in force today.

Described by one as turning an area of ancient farmland into a "big industrial zone," the development only won approval thanks to chairman Mike Varney's casting vote.

Cornwall councillor for neighbouring Stithians Neil Plummer said the reasons for approval "seem to outweigh those for refusal," while councillor John Fitter raised concerns about the loss of agricultural land.

Feelings ran so high during the meeting that security had to be called after something was thrown in the council chamber.

Yet despite more than 50 letter of objection, carrying sentiments echoed by Mabe and Stithians parish councils, and a petition carrying well over 100 signatures, the plans were approved.

Lightsource have agreed not to use pesticides or CCTV cameras on the site after earlier concerns.