DEVELOPERS behind a proposed £300m power plant at Southampton docks drew comfort from divided public opinion at the third of five public exhibitions showcasing their revised plans.

More than 120 people visited the Helius Energy exhibition at the Freemantle United Reform Church Hall in Southampton last night to find out about the proposed 100-megawatt wood-fired energy station.

The largest attendance so far brought some positive reaction to the project and the design changes that have been made following widespread public opposition and angry protests to the plans last year.

Developers were road testing three new design approaches and showing how they had moved the proposed site back a further 125m so it was 250m from the nearest homes in Millbrook, as well as reducing the height of buildings.

Many members of the public remained concerned about the size and appearance of the plant, where the fuel would come from, and were sceptical about claims the pollution will be negligible. But some saw it as a “pioneering” renewable energy scheme for Southampton that would help keep the country’s lights on.

Francoise Carre, 72, a former French teacher from Bassett, Southampton, said: “I'm not convinced at all. I think as an eye sore for the community of Freemantle it's quite catastrophic. And I'm not convinced the particles are not going to be noxious, not just in Freemantle but for the rest of the town with the prevailing wind.

"It's not beautiful and not healthy”

Richard Kirkwood, 67, a civil servant from Shirley Road, Southampton, said: “Of course we should have it.

“Everyone needs electricity.

I want to come home in ten years and know I can switch the lights on. The councillors opposing it were just after votes.”

The power plant would burn up to 800,000 tonnes of wood, largely shipped in through the docks, to generate enough electricity to power 200,000 homes. Helius argues the plant will cut carbon emissions and help tackle climate change while creating 450 construction jobs, and 100 more once operating.

Paul Brighton, Helius Energy’s planning director, said while some people still objected in principle and others had concerns about the impact the project would have, he was encouraged by many positive responses.

The public consultation runs until August 3. A planning application is expected to be lodged later this year.

The next exhibition will be on Tuesday at Marchwood Village Hall, then next Thursday at the TA Centre in Millbrook, Southampton.