'I could stand against windfarms'

The new Labour MP representing Montgomeryshire & Glyndwr has said that he is right behind constituents opposing pylon corridors that would rip through our countryside to carry power generated at new windfarms into the English National Grid in Shropshire.

A long-running battle between protesters in the Welshpool area and the big energy companies is entering a new, crucial, phase with the Labour Governments in both Westminster and Cardiff seemingly more favourable to new developments to meet green targets.

The area has been supported in its opposition by successive Conservative MPs Glyn Davies and Craig Williams, and, now, our new representative, Steve Witherden, says that he too could find himself in a tricky spot with his party over plans for his constituency.

Whilst admittedly being a big supporter of wind power, he said he strongly opposes pylons and wants any new cabling underground, but he also believes Montgomeryshire already has its fair share of windfarms.

“I support an expansion in renewable energy infrastructure and wind, like solar and tidal, is a part of that,” Mr Witherden told us.

“I have always been consistent and vocal on that. However, I am not supportive of pylons, when the cables can be underground. I feel strongly about that and could potentially find myself in a position where I oppose a project on those grounds.

“Even on windfarms, where I am usually very supportive, I can envisage situations where I would not be in favour: I resent peat bogs, themselves a carbon sink and rich in wildlife, being concreted over for turbines.

“And when we consider that Montgomeryshire generates approximately 96% of the energy it uses from renewables, I often feel that we could be left with no Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, if they are all in our constituency and nowhere else takes their fair share.”

Labour has put wind power at the heart of its green energy plans, so Mr Witherden’s comments will hearten campaigners like Montgomeryshire Against Pylons who are carrying the people’s opposition forward.

Here is what Labour promised in its election manifesto:

“To deliver our clean power mission, Labour will work with the private sector to double onshore wind, triple solar power, and quadruple offshore wind by 2030. We will invest in carbon capture and storage, hydrogen and marine energy, and ensure we have the long-term energy storage our country needs. A new Energy Independence Act will establish the framework for Labour’s energy and climate policies.”