Shropshire Council confirms opposition to pylons plan
Shropshire Council has reiterated its opposition to plans for a high voltage power line through the west of the county.
A motion was presented to yesterday's meeting of the authority by Councillor Arthur Walpole calling for all members to object to the overhead power line being planned to connect wind farms in Mid Wales to the existing power grid.
Councillor Walpole, who represents Llanymynech, said: "The proposed overhead power line will have a detrimental impact in Shropshire with no perceived beneficial gain for communities and will adversely affect our communities our environment and our tourist economy.
"The construction phase including the impact of the construction traffic on our local roads and communities would have a detrimental effect on the quality of life and on property. This will leave a permanent legacy affecting our green and pleasant land."
Council leader Keith Barrow said: "This is already affecting people in Shropshire. Many are struggling to sell their homes which are blighted by the plans."
Councillors agreed to object to the pylon line. National Grid's consultation ran from November to February 9 and more than 20 information events were held across Shropshire and Powys.
Jane Taylor, National Grid spokeswoman, said: "We know people would like us to wait for the outcome of the wind farm inquiry before we move forward with our plans. However, we also have a legal duty to provide a connection for the windfarms as soon as they start generating electricity should they go ahead.
"Due to the time it takes to develop a new connection, we have to develop our proposals in parallel."
