RSPB warns new undersea cables could damage nature reserves on Suffolk coast
New undersea cables could emerge onto land and pass through the middle of RSPB North Warren and RSPB Minsmere
Last updated 5th Dec 2022
The RSPB says plans for a new undersea cables connecting the Suffolk coast to Kent and mainland Europe could damage several important wildlife reserves.
'Sea Link' would help shift electricity between the East and South of England, while EuroLink would connect our grid up to the power network in the Netherlands, with the potential to carry power for 1.8 million homes.
However current proposals would see both cables emerge onto land on the Suffolk coast and potentially pass through the reserves at RSPB North Warren and RSPB Minsmere, as well as several other protected sites.
RSPB North Warren provides an important habitat to ducks, geese, swans, bittern and marsh carrier, with the charity warning its 'particularly susceptible' to any damage from contruction.
Minsmere could face additional damage from the construction of the nearby Sizewell C nuclear power station.
Adam Rowlands, RSPB Suffolk Area Manager said:
“Whilst we understand the need to be able to get electricity to people’s homes and businesses particularly during these difficult times, we are outraged at the complete lack of strategic planning by National Grid to prioritise options which would minimise the impacts on nature and wildlife along the Suffolk coast.
“‘Steam rolling’ through the middle of areas which have been afforded protected status due to their exceptionally high value to nature and wildlife and scenic beauty just makes no sense, especially at such a critical time when we are in a climate and nature emergency and nature seems to be under threat from every direction.
“We strongly urge National Grid to remove these nature damaging proposals and look at alternative routes which would not heavily impact wildlife.
"Every voice counts and we encourage anyone concerned about this to make their voices heard and send their thoughts into National Grid’s consultation before the closing date.”
The National Grid's consultation closes on December 18.
The power network claims EuroLink would provide several 'nationally significant' benefits, including cheaper power, greater energy security and a cut to carbon emissions.
The National Grid says Sea Link would help with the UK's transition to clean energy.