RUMOURS are circulating that a wind farm, potentially involving turbines 'three times the size of Coleford clock tower' are being proposed on farmland on the outskirts of Coleford.

It has been confirmed that a meeting is being arranged at Forest Hills Golf Club on September 24 to outline possible plans and involves several companies with a potential interest in investing or supporting the turbines.

It is also understood that there will be a presentation to Coleford Town Council next week (August 31).

The farmland is understood to be owned by a member of the well-known Kear family and is close to residents in Lower Lane, Sunnybank, Woodgate Road and Greenfield Road.

Several residents have contacted the Review to express reserves over the proposals.

"We've been told that they are proposing three wind turbines which will be three times the size of Coleford Clock Tower. We're just surprised we haven't been told about the meeting and know nothing about what is proposed.

"Its also a curious site for a wind farm, in a valley setting and not far from housing and Great Oaks Hospice as well.

"What appeared to be some sort of wind monitoring mast was erected about five weeks ago, presumably to check wind speeds, but once we got on the telephone to the council, it was hastily dismantled. There was a van down here in about 15 minutes and it was gone."

Forest Hills Golf Club has confirmed they are acting as a venue for the turbine meeting on September 24.

Forest of Dean District Council has confirmed it has had 'preliminary discussions' over the proposal, but cannot comment further as no official application has been made.

The Review did attempt to contact Mr Harry Kear before going to press, but he is in China and was unavailable to comment at this time.