Local leaders in Suffolk restate opposition to pylon plans: "Constable Country is not for sale"
It's after the Chancellor, in yesterday's Autumn Statement, pledged to offer lower energy bills for those impacted
Local leaders in Suffolk are restating their objections to a new row of electricity pylons that would cut through the countryside.
It's after the Chancellor, in yesterday's Autumn Statement, pledged to offer lower energy bills for those impacted.
Babergh District Council has now reaffirmed its objections to the plans, saying the Suffolk countryside is not for sale.
National Grid's plans propose an additional line of pylons and cables is installed across Babergh and Mid Suffolk – which those against the plans worry would have a negative impact on the environment, local communities and businesses.
"Constable Country is not for sale"
Yesterday, the Jeremy Hunt announced plans to offer up to £10,000 off electricity bills over 10 years for those living closest to new transmission infrastructure.
But Babergh District Council’s acting leader, Cllr John Ward, said: “Constable Country is not for sale – once the landscape has been industrialised, nothing can compensate for this loss.
“We do not want to see a new row of ugly pylons cutting through our precious landscapes – and the pledge of lower energy bills for those living nearest to them does not change that view.”
"There is a better option"
Babergh’s deputy leader, Cllr Deborah Saw, added: "We recognise the national importance of strategic energy infrastructure for the transition to net zero, but believe there is a better option.
"We continue to stand with our communities to call for a strategic off-shore grid, which will minimise onshore infrastructure and the associated impacts of that.
“Much more work needs to be done on this, taking on board the feedback of our communities.”
Earlier this year, both Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils wrote to the Government restating their objections to plans for more pylons.