Let’s press for fairness – and some joined up thinking!

Rhun ap Iorwerth AM is frustrated that National Grid’s latest plan once again offers little in response to protests at their proposals to erect a new line of overhead pylons across Anglesey.

He also calls for a fresh approach to investigating a means by which an electricity transmission line could actually bring a benefit, which would be to cross the Menai Strait on a new road bridge that Grid could contribute towards.

National Grid’s June issue of Project News offers some concession for the proposed route in the Gaerwen/Llanddaniel Fab area, which will no doubt be welcomed in that area – but for Anglesey as a whole there’s no backing down on a determination to press ahead with an overhead line.

Rhun ap Iorwerth AM for Ynys Môn said:
“I’m left frustrated once again by Grid’s reluctance to listen to demand for an alternative. Our original demand for undersea cables has been thrown out by Grid. The other option – undergrounding – is more expensive and causes short-term disruption, but the cost, I believe, is one that should be met in order to protect the interests of Anglesey.

“Grid’s decision to put cables under the Menai Strait is being hailed as a compromise. In reality, they were always planning on doing that, so we shouldn’t be hoodwinked. Why not be more creative, and really push for an option whereby cables could be laid on a new bridge that Grid could contribute towards – I’ve long called for the dualling of the Britannia. With a little joined-up thinking, this could help. I will press the case with the Welsh Government Transport Secretary.”