Burnham-On-Sea’s MP raised controversial proposals to build a new line of electricity pylons across the Somerset Levels pylons in the House of Commons on Thursday (January 7th).
David Heathcoat-Amory’s question was answered by David Kidney, the minister responsible for electricity generation.
Mr Heathcoat-Amory asked: “At present, the National Grid wants to put in a new line of pylons across the Somerset levels. That is controversial, and we oppose it. It would make sense to go for a submarine cable to take the energy away from Hinkley. That could be done as part of the study for the Severn barrage.”
The minister replied: “I have heard the Right Honourable Gentleman make that point on behalf of his constituents before, and I congratulate him on his persistence and ingenuity in working it into the question before us.”
“I assure him that every aspect of the development is being considered in the feasibility study, so my answer to his question is yes.”
David Heathcoat-Amory responded: “I am glad that the Energy Department is now fully aware of the pylon issue. It makes sense to examine the necessary grid connection for the Severn Barrage project and the Hinkley Point nuclear generator at the same time, and I have ensured that this will be done. A submarine cable could be the answer to both projects.”
Mr Heathcoat-Amory also raised the pylons matter in parliament on December 7th when he quizzed Edward Miliband, Secretary of State for Energy & Climate Change. Burnham-On-Sea.com reported last September how National Grid wants to connect a proposed new nuclear power station at Hinkley Point to a new sub-station near Bristol – a distance of 37 miles.
Pictured is David Heathcoat-Amory with members of the local campaign group Pylon Moor Pressure
