Meeting planned to discuss Aquind interconnector plans
Residents are being invited to a public meeting to discuss the proposed Aquind interconnector project.
The free event, organised by campaigners opposing the controversial scheme, will take place on 31 October at Portsmouth Central Library.
The Aquind project proposes the construction of a High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) interconnector between Normandy, France, and a new substation in Lovedean. If approved, electricity cables would be laid through the eastern side of Portsmouth.
Critics have voiced concerns about the project’s environmental and logistical impact, including disruption from roadworks in areas such as Purbrook, Waterlooville, and Portsmouth’s Eastern Road.
AQUIND argues that linking the British and French power grids would improve energy market efficiency, strengthen security of supply, and support the transition to renewable energy and growing electric vehicle use.
Aquind originally applied for a Development Consent Order to authorise the project, which was refused on 20 January 2022.
A Judicial Review brought by Aquind was heard in the High Court in November 2022, with Portsmouth City Council joined as an interested party.
On 24 January 2023, the court upheld the Judicial Review, overturning the former refusal. The decision now rests with the government again.
In August last year, the Ministry of Defence said the project would “unacceptably impede and compromise” Portsmouth Naval Base operations, posing a “serious” national security concern.
Aquind disregarded the MoD’s concerns as “unsubstantiated”.
The event will feature speakers including Viola Langley and Paula Savage from Let’s Stop Aquind alongside French campaign Non à Aquind President Donald Brument.
It’s being described as an opportunity to discuss the “continuing threat” posed by Aquind by “looking at the past, present and possible future of this unwanted, un-needed and dangerous project”.
Councillor Steve Pitt, leader of Portsmouth City Council, will also speak at the event.
In its official objection to the project, the council said it “strongly opposes” the project, stating that the planned cable route is “unacceptable” in a “densely populated island city”.
“It will severely impact our residents’ everyday lives and well-being and impact our environment,” it added.
More information on the event can be found on its Eventbrite page.