A CONTROVERSIAL plan to install a hydropower scheme on the River Aire moved a step closer yesterday.

The project, which has divided opinion in the area, would see a hydro-electric turbine, complete with fish race and viewing platforms, installed at Salts Mill Weir in Saltaire.

But the Bradford Council scheme would involve installing the equipment on land at nearby Roberts Park, and needed the approval of the Trustees of Roberts Park - a charity administered by the Council - to proceed.

Yesterday, the Council's Regulatory and Appeals Committee convened in their capacity as trustees of this charity to discuss the plans.

The meeting heard that the land would be leased to the Council under a deal that would see five per cent of profits from the energy-generating scheme ploughed back into the park.

But objector Les Brook urged the committee to consider the terms that Sir James Roberts had set out when donating the parkland to the community in 1920.

He said the deed of gift specifically said the land must be kept "for the purposes only of a public park and recreational ground".

And fellow objector David Brazendale, of the Friends of Roberts Park, said the profits from the electricity sold could amount to as little as £20 an hour.

He said: "Is this scheme worth it?"

Councillor Jackie Whiteley said she was concerned the money the scheme would bring in for the park could simply end up compensating for Council cutbacks.

But officers said a separate account could be set up for the trustees to control.

The committee decided to take the idea to the next stage, by advertising their intention to lease the land, but will make a final decision as trustees at a later date.