Plans for Ribble Valley electricity pylons are scrapped (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Plans for Ribble Valley electricity pylons are scrapped

12:50pm Wednesday 30th May 2012 in Ribble Valley news

A DECISION to scrap plans for giant pylons across the Ribble Valley has been welcomed by the borough’s Conservative group.

Proposals for two new energy plants in Lancashire have been cancelled, meaning the need for new infrastructure will be scaled back and the Ribble Valley will no longer be directly affected.

The huge structures had been planned to transfer electricity from a new generation of low carbon power plants and to connect nuclear power stations, such as Sellafield and Heysham, and new windfarms to the national grid.

It was thought the route would pass through the Hodder and Ribble Valleys, from Quernmore through the Trough of Bowland, Dunsop Bridge, Whitewell, Cow Ark, Bashall Eaves, Great Mitton, Whalley, Billington, Read and Padiham.

Coun Ken Hind, from the Ribble Valley Conservatives, said: ‘’This is extremely good news for the Ribble Valley and the Trough of Bowland, which will no longer be under threat for new electricity lines.

“The alternative route skirting Longridge, Ribchester, Copster Green and Wilpshire will also not be required.

"The area of outstanding natural beauty, which is a large part of the Ribble Valley, will be open to the public and residents to enjoy without being scarred by giant pylons.”

A consultation on the remaining six route options, which may affect other parts of rural Lancashire, will continue until July 19.

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