A local AM has recently questioned the Welsh Government about its support for the Mid Wales Connection Project.
The project will see the connection of proposed wind farms in mid Wales to the national electricity network in Shropshire.
Russell George, a consistent opponent of the project and AM for Montgomeryshire said:
“This week, I questioned the Minister for Economy, Edwina Hart, on the Welsh Government’s engagement with National Grid.
“The people of Montgomeryshire have a deep suspicion that the Welsh Government is working with National Grid in support of the project.
“As a result, I called for the Welsh Government to be open and transparent about its involvement with National Grid and publish all correspondence on the issue.
“While the Minister said that she would be happy to report on any discussions the Welsh Government has had with National Grid, I don’t think it is acceptable for the Welsh Government to merely say that this is a matter for the UK Government.
“As a key consultee on nationally significant energy infrastructure projects, the Welsh Government must stand up for the interests of Mid Wales and reflect the deep-seated concerns and opposition which exists in Mid Wales regarding this ill-conceived project which will blight the local landscape.”
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Notes:
Questions to the Minister for Economy & Transport – Wednesday 19th November 2014
Russell George
14. Will the Minister make a statement on the consultation process associated with the Mid Wales Connection Project? OAQ(4)0476(EST)
Edwina Hart
Yes. The latest consultation published this week by National Grid, I think, provides further clarity on the routes and the infrastructure and transport requirements.
Russell George
Thank you, Minister, for your answer. You will, of course, be aware of the great opposition to the connection project in Montgomeryshire, and the deep unhappiness with National Grid’s consultation process. There is a feeling that the Welsh Government is working with National Grid in support of the connection project, regardless of the consultation. So, could you outline what the Welsh Government’s relationship is with National Grid in this regard, and would you be prepared to be open and transparent and publish all correspondence with National Grid with regard to this project?
Edwina Hart
I think that we have to recognise that this is a very difficult issue, because there is an issue about grid capacity within that particular area. You know that the Welsh Government is a consultee on nationally significant energy infrastructure projects, and we continue to stress the importance to National Grid of ensuring that a robust assessment of possible impacts is undertaken prior to any decision. I will check my records, because I do take the opportunity of meeting National Grid occasionally, and I am more than happy to report on any discussions we may or may not be having with National Grid. However, I think that it is important to remember that these are matters for the UK Government.
Written Question to the Minister for Economy & Transport – Answer received: Tuesday 18th November 2014
Russell George (Montgomeryshire): What discussions has the Welsh Government had this year with the National Grid with regard to the Mid Wales Connection Project? (WAQ67959)
Answer received 18 November 2014
Edwina Hart: My officials have maintained regular contact with the National Grid throughout the duration of the Mid Wales Connection Project.