Gas pipeline to cross Brecon Beacons
7 February 2007
The Council for National Parks (CNP) (1) has today expressed grave concern about the government’s decision to allow a major gas pipeline (2) to cross the Brecon Beacons National Park (3).
In giving the go-ahead for the pipeline the Energy Minister Lord Truscott has placed “stringent environmental conditions” on National Grid, which will be responsible for the construction of the pipeline.
Ruth Chambers, Head of Policy at the Council for National Parks said “while we welcome the environmental conditions that will be placed on National Grid, including a ten year aftercare programme, we question the strategic planning behind this decision. The government must consider all of the potential impacts of major energy projects so that when gas storage facilities such as the one at Milford Haven are proposed, the environmental implications are fully assessed before consent is given.
“This means looking at projects, pipelines and other infrastructure at the same time, rather than as separate applications with separate decisions, which puts developers and politicians in a decision-making straitjacket. The process of Strategic Environmental Assessment exists to help decision makers on major projects so we are very disappointed that the government has not required one for this gas pipeline.
“The Council for National Parks welcomes the government’s commitment to meet our energy needs without exacerbating climate change or pollution such as acid rain. However, we question whether routing this pipeline through one of the most environmentally sensitive landscapes in Wales is really delivering sustainable development”.
Oriel Price, Wales Policy Officer, added “today’s decision will be an unwelcome 50th birthday present for the Brecon Beacons National Park. Millions of people visit the National Parks to enjoy their natural beauty, seek spiritual refreshment and escape from the stresses of our daily lives. Allowing major energy-infrastructure projects such as this gas pipeline in National Parks will change their character and could deter people from visiting, resulting in a loss of income for local businesses”.
Ruth Chambers concluded: “The government considers the National Parks to be the jewels in the countryside’s crown. Today’s decision risks undermining that and we urge the government to ensure that in the future UK energy policy plays to the strength of National Parks and does not see them as obstacles to be overcome“.
Notes to Editors
1. The Council for National Parks is the national charity that works to protect and enhance the National Parks of England and Wales, and areas that merit National Park status, and promote understanding and quiet enjoyment of them for the benefit of all.
2. The 196km pipeline will run from Felindre near Swansea to Tirley in Gloucestershire. The DTI’s press release is at
3. The Brecon Beacons National Park was designated in 1957 and has been afforded the highest status of protection by the government because of its landscape and scenic beauty.
Contact: Ruth Chambers on 07769 676 397 or Oriel Price on 01495 724 751. Oriel Price is available for Welsh language interviews.
For press queries please contact:
Ruth Chambers, Head of Policy on
020 7924 4077 ext. 222