A RESIDENTS' group set up to fight a controversial gas installation is to remain in existence.

The Campaign Against the Pressure Reduction Installation (CAPRI), was set up in 2006 after energy giant National Grid unveiled plans for its plant near Corse, south of the Malvern Hills.

After years of fighting, CAPRI lost the battle in December last year, when government ministers overruled a decision by Tewkesbury Borough Council to refuse the plant planning permission.

But CAPRI has decided to remain in existence to keep an eye on National Grid as it builds the plant, to make sure it complies strictly with the planning conditions imposed by the decisions.

CAPRI secretary Joseph Gabbott said: "The fact that they were fined £8m by OFGEM, the second highest fine ever imposed by OFGEM, at the start of January for providing false information inclines us to the view that vigilance is required.

"We are currently considering an application by National Grid to Gloucestershire County Council to close a local footpath without providing an alternative, and this may give rise to further representations by CAPRI."