Public inquiry for biomass plant

Objectors say the plant is too big at nine acre (3.6 hectares)

A decision on whether a controversial biomass generator plant in north Devon will be given the go-ahead will now go to a planning inquiry.

If built, the £55m plant on the former World War II Airfield in Winkleigh would use crops to create energy.

Locals have raised objections over the plant claiming the site would be too big and it would blight the area.

The company behind the scheme, Peninsula Power, say they are confident they will be given permission.

They say funding will be found for the project despite the Department of Trade and Industry withdrawing its £11.5m capital grant in September.

A government spokesperson said they withdrew their offer because the project was refused planning permission in April by Torridge councillors on the grounds that it was too big at nine acres (3.6 hectares).

The inquiry is expected within the next year.