The creation of local jobs is one of the priorities to come out at a consultation on the proposed Vestas wind turbine factory.

Residents have had the chance to comment about the company’s plans to build the plant at Sheerness Docks at a series of workshops across the Island.

Danish-owned Vestas revealed in May it had signed an agreement with Peel Ports to take over 70 hectares of land at the dockyard to build its V164 7.0MW off-shore wind turbines.

More than 400 people have participated in the consultation so far and according to organisers, 92% of them are in favour of the scheme.

Stakeholders, special interest groups and even schools have been involved in the meetings.

More than 300 pupils from Richmond Primary School learned about the proposals at an arts and technology event about offshore wind turbines.

Visitors to the roadshows were given questionnaires to fill in, which the project team has looked at.

They will also be considering whether any additional work is required prior to the planning application.

The top three priorities to come out of the consultation have been the creation of jobs for local people, the prospect of a major new employer in the region and the potential boost to the economy.

Concerns included that the jobs and training opportunities should benefit local people, existing jobs and businesses at the docks should be considered a priority and heritage assets should be protected.

Three exhibitions have been organised to showcase the feedback and give the community a final chance to have their say before the plans are submitted to Swale council.

The first one will take place on Friday, November 25 at the Sheerness Gateway Centre from 9.30am until 12.30pm.

Linda Stevens, who is co-ordinating the consultation, said: “The initial consultation has attracted attention from a good cross-section of the community, and we are really pleased that so many people, of all ages, have got involved and given us useful feedback.

“Understandably, there are some concerns and reservations, but the majority of people have shown real enthusiasm and support for the project.”