PLANS for a power generating facility have been added to a proposal for a hotel and spa at Monmouth – prompting outrage from local people.

A number of annoyed residents have contacted the Review worried that the amended plans were submitted just two weeks before the deadline for comments to be submitted.

The plans for the hotel and spa at Hadnock Road now include proposals for a four-megawatt power generating facility.

The company behind the hotel plans, Alchemy Hospitality, says the power plant would supply the hotel and “is entirely in keeping with our commitment to the environment.”

A number of comments on Monmouthshire Council planning website express concern that the combind heat and power (CHP) facility could be built before the hotel.

A resident, who did not want to be named, said: “Online comments have been very favourable and the time for submissions is almost up – however an amendment has been added to include a four megawatt power station which is much more than the power needed for the complex.

“I believe the plan is to erect the power station first.”

Alchemy Hospitality managing director Jan Kitcher, said: “The proposed low carbon energy centre would encompass sustainable forms of energy that would provide heat and power to the hotel and spa and is entirely in keeping with our overriding commitment to the environment. 

"The energy centre is obviously an integral part of the overall hotel and spa proposal and important to our achieving those objectives, in addition to which the energy centre could potentially benefit neighbouring businesses.”

A spokesperson for Monmouthshire County Council said: “We will accept and welcome comments from residents and other interested parties on the subject of the proposed power generator up until Monday January 4.”