Welsh Lib Dems Raise Bute Energy Concerns Again in Parliament

The Welsh Liberal Democrats have again raised concerns with UK Government ministers over Bute Energy's wind farm proposals in Powys and have secured a meeting with the Ministry of Defence to discuss the issue further.

Last week, Welsh Liberal Democrat MP for Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe, David Chadwick, raised concerns in Parliament about Bute Energy's proposed Garreg Fawr Energy Park near Merthyr Cynog and Brecon and the potential impact on the nearby Sennybridge Training Area.

Speaking to Luke Pollard, a Defence Minister, David Chadwick highlighted concerns previously raised by the Ministry of Defence regarding developments in the region.

In written correspondence, the MOD has already confirmed that it has concerns about the Banc y Celyn proposals on the otherwise of the Sennybridge Training Area due to their potential impact on military operations, military flight activity and interference with radar systems.

Raising the issue in the House of Commons, David Chadwick questioned what effect the proposals could have on the long-term viability of Sennybridge Training Area should they proceed and requested a meeting with the Minister to discuss the Government's concerns in more detail.

The Minister agreed to meet David Chadwick to discuss the matter further.

Commenting, Welsh Liberal Democrat MP for Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe, David Chadwick said:

“The Welsh Liberal Democrats have been clear that these enormous proposals from Bute Energy are completely inappropriate for our local communities. Whether it is the impact on local wildlife, our tourism industry, or strategically important MOD sites, these developments risk causing lasting damage to our countryside.

“The UK Government has already acknowledged concerns about the impact these proposals could have on military operations and radar systems around Sennybridge Training Area. Given the importance of the site, those concerns deserve serious consideration.

“I welcome the Minister's agreement to meet and discuss these issues further. I will continue to stand up for local residents and ensure that concerns about our environment, rural economy and national security are properly heard.”

ENDS