'Basic common sense' - MP Andrew Snowden urges Ed Miliband to back alternative Fylde coast windfarm cable plan
Last month, the Government announced that it would not approve the current application and would instead defer its decision for six months to allow further consultation and consideration of additional evidence.
Fylde MP Andrew Snowden has pressed Ed Miliband and the Government to properly consider alternative routes for the controversial Morgan and Morecambe windfarm cable corridor following a question to Energy Ministers in the House of Commons.
Last month, the Government announced that it would not approve the current application and would instead defer its decision for six months to allow further consultation and consideration of additional evidence.
Speaking in the Commons, Andrew welcomed the decision to delay approval of the scheme but challenged Ministers to use the additional time to examine alternative routes that have been put forward by Lancashire County Council, Fylde Borough Council and Wyre Borough Council.
Mr Snowden said: "I thank the Secretary of State for not approving the Morgan and Morecambe wind farm cable corridor and for deferring the decision for six months for further consultation. I know how much he wants to achieve his target, so I know how difficult that decision will have been.
“Together with cross-party local councils, I have written to him to articulate the available alternative routes. Will he use these six months to consider those alternatives?"
Responding on behalf of the Government, Energy Minister Michael Shanks declined to comment on the specific proposals, stating only that planning applications are considered on their individual merits.
Andrew Snowden MP said: "Whilst I welcome the Government's decision not to approve these plans at this stage, I was disappointed that Ministers were still unwilling to give any indication that they will properly consider the alternative route options that have been put forward.
"Over many months, local residents, campaign groups, parish councils, Fylde Council, Wyre Council and Lancashire County Council have worked together to present a compelling case against the current proposal.
“The independent economic review shows that the current proposed route could be up to £520 million more expensive than a northern alternative via Rossall and Hillhouse. It also identifies the potential to support 1,100 additional jobs and generate between £990 million and £1.7 billion in economic value.
“This is not a marginal difference. It is a fundamentally better option in economic, environmental and community terms, and it should be properly examined before any final decision is taken.
“It’s just basic common sense. There is a clear alternative that could save hundreds of millions of pounds, reduce disruption for local communities, and avoid the unnecessary damage to our coastline, farmland and countryside.
“At the very least, it deserves to be properly examined before any final decision is taken.”
The Government is expected to make a final decision on the Morgan and Morecambe offshore windfarm application following the conclusion of the six month extension period.