Written question WQ87541
- Asked by
- Adam PricePlaid
- To be answered by
- Minister for Climate Change
- Tabled
- Due
- Answered
- Time to answer
- 6 days
Question
Does Welsh Government planning policy (i) require or (ii) recommend the undergrounding of electricity transmission and distribution lines in (a) national parks, (b) areas of outstanding natural beauty, (c) registered landscapes of outstanding and special historic interest, (d) heritage coasts and (e) special landscape areas?
Answer
Answered by Minister for Climate Change
Planning Policy Wales states the Welsh Government’s preferred position on new power lines is that, where possible, they should be laid underground. However, it is recognised that a balanced view must be taken against costs which could render otherwise acceptable projects unviable. Where undergrounding of lines is not possible or applicable, proactive engagement with energy companies and the public to mitigate the visual impact of any potential new transmission lines should take place.