CONTROVERSIAL wind turbines on the roof of Inverclyde Royal Hospital have been shut down because they are too noisy.

Complaints were made by residents living close to the site when the six wind-powered generators were erected at the end of 2009 to provide electricity to part of the building.

One woman from nearby Arran View said the noise being generated by the equipment sounded 'like a helicopter'.

The environmentally-friendly turbines continued to cause problems, and last year the health board asked the manufacturer to check them over.

Now, they have been taken out of action while efforts are made to resolve the issue.

A spokeswoman NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde said: "We asked the manufacturer to address concerns about noise levels caused by the turbines.

"The blades have now been taken down while a solution is sought to the problem.

"We hope the problem can be quickly remedied and that we are able to once again benefit from this green energy initiative.

"It has been creating electricity to help run the hospital, deliver fuel economies and reduce the health board's carbon footprint." The hospital will have to rely on the mainstream electricity supply until the turbines can re-activated.

The generators have been highlighted by the health board as an example of their 'green' policies.

Last September's online staff newsletter said that, over the last three years, the board has invested millions in more efficient boilers, coolers and lighting in hospitals.

Among the measures listed were investing in renewable energy through installing the turbines.