Cross-channel opposition grows to Aquind interconnector plan
Portsmouth’s Let’s Stop Aquind group has welcomed French allies in a show of unity against the controversial energy cable.
Over the weekend, campaigners renewed their fight against the project, which would see an underground power cable linking Normandy in France to a substation in Lovedean – running through the eastern side of Portsmouth.
Critics say the scheme would cause major disruption along its route through Purbrook, Waterlooville and the Eastern Road, as well as environmental damage to Langstone Harbour.
Supporters say Aquind would strengthen UK–France energy links, cut costs and lower carbon emissions through efficient cross-border power transmission.
The LSA group hosted Jean-Marie Tabesse, mayor of Biville-la-Baignarde, Yoann Collin, mayor of Tourville-sur-Arques, and Donald Brument, president of the French Non à Aquind campaign.
A LSA spokesperson said: “We may not speak the same language but we and our French counterparts, along with our MPs and councillors, all speak with one voice on the subject of Aquind.”
In October, French authorities refused Aquind a crucial maritime concession, ruling the project had failed to show “sufficient national public interest.”
“At this point it appears the Aquind Interconnector is dead, according to our French partners,” the spokesperson added. “However, the French tell us they will remain vigilant as Aquind will not give up easily.”
In the UK, the decision now rests with energy secretary Ed Miliband.
Portsmouth South MP Amanda Martin and Portsmouth North MP Stephen Morgan said: “We have long opposed the AQUIND project and continue to do all we can to highlight the case for it to be finally put to bed.
“We have raised serious national security concerns about the proposed interconnector, alongside the environmental damage, murky financing, and severe disruption it would cause for people in Portsmouth.
“We were pleased to meet with our French counterparts and local campaigners today, to hear about developments in France and update them on the work we are doing.
“We will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with Portsmouth residents and campaigners in making the case for AQUIND to be refused once and for all.”