THE chairman of Dean Oaks Hospice has expressed strong concerns over the installation of a wind turbine at neighbouring Poolway Farm.

In a planning inquiry on Monday, Ceri Evans said: "The fact that we have not objected to the turbine doesn't mean we approve, in fact, in our opinion we think that it is a totally inappropriate site and will have a detrimental affect on the hospice."

Plans to install a 86.5m single wind turbine on the land adjacent to the hospice on Gloucester Road, has been long debated and were criticised by residents who say that it will not only have a visual impact but the health and safety problems associated if the turbine breaks.

Coalway resident, Gordon Flight provided information regarding what could happen if the turbine breaks.

He said: "I am completely against this plan. There is not only the cost factor associated, but the problem I have is that it is being installed for the wrong reason. There is also a health threat to consider on those living within the immediate area ie Broadwell and Baker's Hill if the turbine fails."

Disgruntled members of the public listened to the council's barrister, Peter Wadsley give details of evidence supporting the turbine from an environment report.

Mr Wadsley argued that the turbine would pose "no overbearing problem to residents" and that the turbine would not cause significant harm to the site.

He said: "Although the turbine would cause harm to the public's view at low-level it wouldn't affect the site as a whole and the landscape pattern would prevail. The turbine requires a small area for installation and there will only be a small loss to hedgerow which we would look to replace.

"The environment report concludes that the turbine will have an impact but it would not be significant."

The turbine would be in a hub that is 60m high and it would provide an estimated 2.83 million kw per annum which would provide electricity for up to 670 homes.

The inquiry has been adjourned until Monday, July 15 where it will resume for three days.