Wanderinstar,
I think you might have to give this a bit more time and consideration. Sure Leylandii are fast growing, but before you know it you going to have to pay for maintenance of them. I'm in a similar boat, a previous owner planted loads of conifers that are now so tall that the wind cuts through underneath all of the bulky foliage, between the trunks. I'm going to have to replace them over an extended period with something more suitable. Thinking along the lines of willows, birches, hazel hawthorn etc - something that wont grow too big but will afford some respite from the prevailing winds all the same. The fact that I live on top of a Welsh hilltop is going to be a challenge.
Remember that if your area is prone to heavy snow in winter, a windbreak will encourage drifting where the wind slows - many folk in this area do not like hedges close to roads for that reason.
That said, the Smallholding magazines often carry adverts for fast growing "screen" plants related to sugar cane and other shrubs that might be suitable for your purpose.
ATB
Ogri the trog