SP Energy Networks position on this project remains as it has since 2015 when it published the three reports below and updated its environmental surveys. The three reports were:
- Consultation Stage Three Feedback Report
- Preferred Line Route Report
- ES Scoping Report
The above reports can be viewed on the dedicated project website.
The further environmental surveys undertaken in 2015 included the following:
- Extended Phase 1 habitat survey of the route corridors.
- Great crested newt and otter and water vole surveys on the River Wye Special Area of Conservation (SAC).
- Various breeding and wintering bird surveys.
- Badger and bat surveys.
This work was suspended in 2015 following the decisions by the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (DBEIS) to not grant permission for a number of wind farms in Mid Wales and then the subsequent call for evidence in July 2016 in relation to their redetermination of two proposed wind farms, Carnedd Wen and Llanbrynmair. Further exchanges of information have occurred since then until the present time between the developers, DBEIS and relevant interested parties. With the latest request made by DBEIS in December 2018, this information exchange looks likely to continue into 2019. This remains the current position in relation to these two proposed developments.
As such, SP Energy Networks' suspension of its Mid Wales Connections Project continues until DBEIS issues a decision.