RESIDENTS living near Sharpness Docks are staying open-minded towards plans for a wind turbine near their homes.

The Partnership for Renewables, an agency hoping to build one turbine on British Waterways (BW) land at the docks, held a public exhibition last week giving homeowners the chance to view their initial plans and ask more questions.

The plans are in their very early stages, with no application being submitted, but people were able to view a map highlighting the likely area where one could be placed.

The ideal spot is thought to be on the dock island, on scrubland near the Severn Area Rescue Association (SARA) station.

Terry Parsons, who lives on the island in BW houses, said he had no qualms about the plans in theory.

"I’ve got no problem with it and I don’t think many people living near me would. We get permanent noise from nearby factories all day, I can’t see that a wind turbine would make more noise than that," he said.

"As long as consideration is shown to us then there should be no problem. If they can justify the cost of putting a big turbine up with the amount of electricity they hope to generate then it is worth it."

Another local resident, who attended the exhibition and did not want to be named, said: "I think it is a really good idea. I live on the docks and it wouldn’t bother me. It makes sense to place a turbine here in an industrial area, it is good use of the land."

The Partnership for Renewables is a new body, part funded by the Carbon Trust, which would build the turbine and sell the electricity to energy providers.

They estimate that a single turbine on the docks could generate enough electricity for around 1,000 homes.

Before any application goes ahead the PfR will be carring out a range of studies into the effect of the mast including a study on wildlife, with particular focus on migratory birds with Slimbridge Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust so close by.

Tony Duffin, PfR regional manager, said: "We were delighted with the numbers of local residents who came to find out more about our ongoing work and share their views with us.

"Many of those who visited us were enthusiastic about the potential for renewable energy generation at Sharpness Docks and have welcomed our efforts to work with the community and share information at such an early stage."

If anyone was unable to visit the event but wants more information on the plans call 0800 731 7395 or visit the website www.pfr.co.uk/sharpness