Electricity line route changes

Utility bosses have revealed an alternative route for a £6 million overhead electricity line through Oswestry after the original proposals met a wall of opposition.

SP Manweb wants to construct a new overhead electricity line between Oswestry substation and Legacy, near Wrexham. The overall scheme would cost £12 million.

The company is looking to increase the capacity of supply and to ensure the security of electricity supply to about 80,000 customers between Wrexham and Oswestry.

In order to achieve this, its proposal includes the construction of a 132kV wood pole overhead line.

But the original preferred route put out to public consultation received a barrage of objections over the possible visual and environmental impacts, particularly as it would have crossed Ifton Meadows nature reserve in St Martins.

In a bid to address the concerns raised, SP Manweb say the route options have been "re-assessed" and an alternative route for part of the original route is now being considered.

The alternative route identified is between the Ceiriog Valley and Gobowen and has gone out for further consultation.

Proposals can be viewed at St Martins Community Centre. Representatives from SP Manweb and environmental consultants, TEP will be present at the community centre between 3pm and 7pm on September 6 to answer any questions.