🌿 Welsh Farmers Fight Back! 🌿
Farmers and landowners across Wales are taking a stand, claiming their land is being “invaded” by plans for major pylon networks. Over 300 individuals have launched a High Court case against Green GEN Cymru, a green energy company whose proposed infrastructure would span over 200km across rural Wales, including Powys, Ceredigion, and Carmarthenshire.
The uproar centres around allegations that company agents are forcing access onto private land, disregarding environmental protections and community wellbeing. Farmers report intimidating behaviour from these agents, who are claimed to be crossing farm boundaries in unclean gear, possibly risking livestock diseases such as TB or sheep scab.
The legal challenge, spearheaded by New South Law, charges that the energy firm has exceeded its powers as an acquiring authority. More than just about land access, this case questions the accountability of industry practices in the UK’s renewable energy shift.
Natalie Barstow, founder of Justice for Wales, emphasises the necessity of legal action, citing hundreds of reports from people feeling threatened in their own homes. She stresses, “We support green energy, but not when it comes at the cost of bullying and disrespect.”
The Justice for Wales coalition highlights important issues of transparency and respect for community rights. It claims video evidence shows agents tramping through protected areas, risking harm to native wildlife.
Mary Smith, a lawyer at New South Law, states, “This case is pivotal for ensuring that environmental and human rights are not overshadowed by commercial goals.”
Green GEN Cymru is reviewing the legal challenge and plans to respond through the court. How this unfolds could have significant repercussions for future energy projects across the UK.
Stay tuned for updates as this legal battle highlights the ongoing tension between green energy initiatives and local community rights. 🌱⚖️