Plans to generate electricity from wind blowing across Canvey today came under scrutiny.

Dave Blackwell, who represents the island's Central ward, is worried there is simply not enough wind in the area to make the project economical.

Mr Blackwell was speaking after reported proposals to build wind turbines on the Occidental jetty off Hole Haven Creek.

Jetty owner Blue Lark is looking to identify the site as being suitable to create renewable energy and then lease it out to a firm wanting to develop the area.

A spokesman for the company said up to 3,500 homes on the island could be powered by the environmentally friendly electricity if the scheme goes ahead.

However, Mr Blackwell said: "As I understand it you have to have a lot of wind to generate electricity using these turbines and at this time of year there is just no wind on Canvey.

"The only time you would be able to use these things would be in the winter which might not be enough to make having these things economical."

A spokesman for Blue Lark said: "These turbines would never be left to become monuments.

"The developer would be looking at spending millions of pounds and he would make all the necessary checks to make sure there was the right amount of wind before installing the turbines."

Published Wednesday, June 18, 2003

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