We’ve come around to that time again when I get to update you all on what’s been happening in the world of your local Senedd Member for Brecon and Radnorshire.
Since I last wrote to you all, I took part in a debate in which Plaid Cymru tabled a motion asking the Welsh Government to update Planning Policy Wales (PPW), so that plans for new infrastructure to transfer energy, such as the proposed 60-mile route of pylons across mid-Wales, must be undergrounded as the default option, not ‘preferred’ as current papers state. Unfortunately, this was not agreed.
My Welsh Conservative colleagues also tabled a motion which aimed to ensure the future undergrounding of any electricity cables came with a rigorous health impact assessment, but this was also not passed.
I am bitterly disappointed that these amendments were voted down. From the day Bute Energy announced these plans, I have consistently voiced my opposition to them. These proposals are on an industrial-scale and will drastically change our beautiful landscape, which will have a hugely detrimental effect on our rural communities and livelihoods.
I believe it is wrong that developers seem to be able to ignore PPW’s ‘preference’ for underground transmission lines on the grounds of viability. I believe large scale projects such as the ones planned across my constituency should not be started if developers cannot afford to underground the lines.
I will carry on doing all I can to ensure that, IF Nant Mithel energy park and the associated transmission line are given the green light – these cables MUST go underground to ensure our beautiful landscape remains just that. I will keep raising this in Cardiff Bay and ensure the Welsh Government listens to concerns not only raised by you, but everyone across Wales.
On a slightly different note, I am pleased that plans to reform the school summer holiday have been shelved until at least 2026 – meaning the annual tradition of school children and young people taking part in our brilliant Royal Welsh Show is thankfully set to continue! I have long said that changing the structure of the school year would negatively impact our tourism and hospitality industry, so I’m happy to see these plans given the back seat for the foreseeable future.
Looking forward to a Summer of shows and events, and meeting as many of you as possible!
