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Concerns Rise Over Green GEN Cymru’s Plans for Pylon Construction in Rural Wales
Civil unrest could emerge as Green GEN Cymru attempts to forcibly access land for its ambitious project to construct extensive pylons through the picturesque landscapes of rural Wales, warns a local politician.
The renewable energy company has confirmed its intention to seek court warrants to gain access to private properties after initial requests were declined by landowners. In an interview with Newyddion S4C, the firm disclosed that it had filed 11 applications to survey land, with court hearings scheduled for April 7 and April 14.
Green GEN Cymru asserts that it has a legal entitlement to access the land as it functions as an Independent Distribution Operator Network and is committed to fostering positive relations with local communities.
Adam Price, the Plaid Cymru Member of the Senedd representing Carmarthen East and Dinefwr, cautioned the company against its current approach. He expressed concern that the ongoing strategy might provoke widespread social unrest among community members opposed to the project.
Price stated, “We are on the brink of a situation where if the community continues with this strategy, it could lead to significant social unrest and resistance to these plans. Why pursue legal action against individuals within communities? It’s time to step back and engage in constructive dialogue.”
Local resident Dyfan Walters, whose land lies near one of the proposed pylon routes on the outskirts of Llandovery in Carmarthenshire, has also rejected the access application. He expressed a lack of fear regarding potential court summons and voiced his strong opposition to the project.
Walters commented, “The construction of these pylons will dramatically alter the landscape of our area. Through our research, we believe there are more suitable alternatives available.” He emphasized that many in the community are already entrenched in legal proceedings, reflecting the strong sentiments held by residents.
He further proposed that it is feasible to install underground cables, noting that such methods could be executed at a cost comparable to erecting pylons. “I fail to see the rationale behind pursuing the pylons when the community is open to collaborating on burying the cables instead,” Walters added.
In its defense, Green GEN Cymru stated that it is proactively working to establish a green energy network for Wales, aimed at addressing the energy crisis, climate change, and the rising cost of living. The company intends to implement three primary pylon routes across the Welsh countryside, specifically in Powys, Ceredigion, and Carmarthenshire. The proposed projects are named Towy-Teifi, Towy-Usk, and Vyrnwy-Frankton.
Despite initially agreeing to provide an interview, the company later retracted, citing political backlash regarding its intended legal actions and a desire to maintain a cohesive communication strategy.
Green GEN Cymru reiterated that the development of electricity infrastructure holds national importance and, therefore, maintains a legal right to access the land in question. The company has claimed to be working positively with local communities and has offered to fund independent professional assessments for landowners while providing compensation for any land damage incurred during survey operations.
As the demand for new electrical grid infrastructure continues to escalate in Wales, the urgency for these developments remains apparent.
Source
www.bbc.com