THE blades to a controversial community wind turbine – which was passed after a year-long appeal – has been installed in Alvington.

The turbine, in Court Lane, is the second project by The Resilience Centre to come into operation following the erection at Great Dunkilns Farm in St Briavels in 2013. A third application at Severndale Farm in Tidenham was passed in August.

The turbines are expected to generate at least £3.5million over the next 25 years for local causes, and are part of a drive for clean energy projects with environmental, social and economic benefits.

Sue Clarke, at the Woolaston-based centre, said: “This is the third application that has been approved by the council in four years, which we are delighted about.

“We predict that the Alvington Court and Severndale Farm turbines over 25 years could each give £1.5million to the community while St Briavels can give £500,000.

“The turbine at St Briavels has already raised more than £25,000 for local causes.”

The application was passed last August despite public concern it would pose a ‘noise and visual’intrusion.

The application was submitted to the council in October 2012, nine months later it was refused by planning officers who claimed there were possible ‘heritage concerns’.

The applicants appealed the decision and last August it was passed.

Mrs Clarke said: “Although the project was opposed by some of the parish residents, it is well-supported by many people.”

The energy generated is sold onto the national grid with any profits given back to the community.

Mrs Clarke added: “Resilient Energy Alvington Court Renewables has been formed as a co-operative society known as a Community Benefit Company which includes the landowner, the Resilience Centre and ethical investors - more than half from Gloucestershire. Investors do so on the understanding they will both receive returns and be providing for the community.”