THE firm behind plans to build a £25 million windfarm on the mountains between Blaina and Blaenavon has started consultation with local residents.

Pennant Wind Energy Ventures has delivered more than 15,000 leaflets to the communities such as Abertillery, Bryn-mawr, Blaina, Six Bells, Nantyglo, Llanhilleth and Cwmtillery that surround the proposed site.

The mountains of Myn-ydd James, Cefn Coch, and Coity could house between 20 and 30 turbines, each up to 100 metres, high if the Pendragon Windfarm gains approval from the planning committee of Blaenau Gwent borough council.

As well as giving information about the venture, the company is asking the public for their views on a number of issues including how the 'green dividend' of up to £4 million should be spent.

When the Argus asked the people of Blaina what they thought of the proposals, first announced earlier this month, locals were almost unanimous in their support of the scheme.

Managing director Dale Hart said yesterday: "We want to keep local people fully informed, ahead of our planning application in the coming months.

"The potential £4 million of community funds could be doubled if suitable projects that would qualify for match funding are identified. The views of the local communities are important to us and we welcome ideas on how the money may best be spent."

The company's leaflet includes a pre-paid reply card for people to give their views.

The company claims the proposed Pendragon Windfarm could produce enough clean energy for the equivalent of nearly all the homes in Blaenau Gwent.

Detailed proposals are now being prepared and the planning application is expected later this year.

Mr Hart claimed a windfarm would help the National Assembly to meet its commitment to renewable energy production, and help the environment.

"We want to be a good neighbour and will be keeping local people fully informed of the progress of our proposal and take on board their views on the best way forward," Mr Hart added.