Plans to use a former north Wales coal mine for power generation have been halted after local councillors raised concerns.

Developers had hoped to tap into a gas supply from the former Llay Main Colliery, near Wrexham.

The local people have been very worried, we've been told the noise level can be great for about three or four weeks

Malcolm Williams, Councillor

Councillors were expected to give the green light for the drilling of an exploratory gas well on land at Llay Hall Farm on Monday.

But they voted for a site visit after growing anxiety over possible noise pollution.

A report to the authority's planning committee says that Evergreen Resources UK want to sink a borehole into an area of underground workings at the former mine.

The nearest homes are 400 metres away and local councillor Malcolm Williams said they are worried about noise from the drilling.

"Last night, we went there for a site meeting - we're not happy with the situation - we can't get any reassurances on noise level," he said.

Mr Williams added: "The local people have been very worried, we've been told the noise level can be great for about three or four weeks."

Notification has been sent to 10 local residents and four businesses.

Residents concerns

Noise disturbance Safety values Property values Traffic risks Pollution Risk of explosion or fire Use of agricultural land

Five letters have been received by the local authority, objecting to the development.

Concerns raised have included noise disturbance, detriment to family well being and safety issues.

The applicant wants to drill a single well, but has applied for three as a contingency measure should any unforeseen geological or technical problems be encountered.

It is proposed to retain the use of the access, the well and ancillary equipment for a maximum period of 10 years.

Commercially Viable

The site would be restored if the well did not prove to be commercially viable or if gas reserves ran dry.

Llay councillor David Broderick fears the land could be sold off if enough gas is found on the site.

"If they obtain gas in suitable quantities, the land could be sold, there are logistics behind it all but they would have to gain another planning application," he said.

A site meeting is expected to take place within the next four weeks.