EAST Anglia's coastline is to be transformed after the Government gave the green light to one of the largest offshore wind farms in the UK.Energy Minister Malcolm Wicks granted permission for the second phase of the Gunfleet Sands project, which will see 22 turbines built about five miles off the coastal towns of Clacton and Frinton.

EAST Anglia's coastline is to be transformed after the Government gave the green light to one of the largest offshore wind farms in the UK.

Energy Minister Malcolm Wicks granted permission for the second phase of the Gunfleet Sands project, which will see 22 turbines built about five miles off the coastal towns of Clacton and Frinton.

The wind farm, which will be located in prime fishing grounds, will be capable of producing 64 megawatts - enough power for 45,000 homes.

It will be alongside the first phase of the Gunfleet Sands project which has already been given the go-ahead with 30 turbines set to supply up to 90 megawatts, powering up 75,000 houses.

The total scheme will be capable of providing electricity for 20 per cent of households in Essex according to the company in charge, DONG Energy. .

Onshore works for part one are starting shortly, with the offshore phase beginning later this year and the 129 metre tall turbines due to be put in next spring with construction on part two due for completion in 2010.

The Government also gave the go-ahead to two other wind farms yesterday at Keadby in Lincolnshire, powering up to 38,000 homes and another at Thorne in Yorkshire capable of supplying energy to up to 26,500 homes.

Energy minister Malcolm Wicks said: “These three new wind farms will add a further 215 megawatts of green energy to the renewables revolution that is sweeping through the UK.

“We are on course to overtake Denmark next year as the world leader in offshore wind and we are reviewing our strategy to take us even further.”