Concerns have been raised about the potential for civil unrest if a company persists in attempting to access land forcibly to erect miles of pylons in rural Wales, according to a politician. Green GEN Cymru has confirmed that it has sought court warrants to gain access to private land after facing refusals from landowners on their initial applications. The renewable energy company revealed that it had submitted 11 applications to access land for surveys, with court hearings scheduled for 7 and 14 April.
In response to the situation, Adam Price, Plaid Cymru MS for Carmarthen East and Dinefwr, urged the company to reconsider its approach. He emphasized the risk of mass social unrest and opposition to the proposed plans if the community continues to resist. Dyfan Walters, a resident near one of the planned pylon routes in Llandovery, Carmarthenshire, expressed his refusal to grant land access and his readiness to face any court summons. Walters highlighted concerns about the significant impact on the local landscape and suggested that exploring underground cable options could be a viable alternative.
The controversial plans by Green GEN Cymru involve developing three major routes of pylons in Powys, Ceredigion, and Carmarthenshire – named Towy-Teifi, Towy-Usk, and Vyrnwy-Frankton. Despite asserting their commitment to building a green energy network for Wales to address energy, climate, and cost-of-living crises, the company faced backlash for their actions. The company’s decision to withdraw from an interview with Newyddion S4C, citing political criticism and a desire to maintain consistency in messaging, raised further skepticism. It reiterated its legal right to access land for electricity infrastructure deemed of national importance, but also emphasized efforts to work positively with communities and provide compensation for any damages incurred during surveys.
As the controversy surrounding the pylon project in Wales escalates, the dialogue between the company, landowners, and affected communities remains strained. While Green GEN Cymru pushes forward with its plans, resistance from locals like Dyfan Walters highlights the growing tensions and displeasure with the proposed developments. The standoff underscores the importance of constructive engagement and collaboration to address the energy needs of Wales while respecting the concerns and interests of all involved parties
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