SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (AP) -- Residents opposed to a planned wood burning power plant in Springfield are calling on Gov. Deval Patrick to halt the plant's permitting.

The group Stop Toxic Incineration in Springfield said they are concerned that the plant could add to health problems like asthma.

The group is planning to hold a press conference on Wednesday ahead of an evening meeting by the Springfield Public Health Council devoted, in part, to hearing from residents concerned about the plant.

Opponents say they're worried about plans to burn wood from construction and demolition sites.

The Patrick administration is rethinking its support of wood-burning power plants, saying it wants more information about possible negative effects.

© 2009 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Learn more about our Privacy Policy.

Click here for copyright permissions! Copyright 2008 Associated Press