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Scottish Borders Pylon Protest

Residents in the Scottish Borders are protesting against plans for giant pylons to carry wind farm energy to England, raising concerns about environmental impact and visual disruption.

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English

United Kingdom

UkEnergy SecurityEnvironmentInfrastructureEnergyProtestCommunity

Scottish Power Energy Networks (Spen)National Grid

Edward KelloRosi ListerAnthony JamesDouglas WalkerJohn Lamont

What is SPEN's justification for the project?: While SPEN argues that the pylons are necessary for efficient and reliable electricity transmission, protesters argue that the environmental cost outweighs the benefits. They feel the project prioritizes energy transmission to England over protecting the Scottish Borders' natural beauty.
What are the concerns of residents living along the proposed route?: Residents along the 50-mile route are worried about the effect of the pylons on the landscape, wildlife, and their property values. They have formed community protest groups and are lobbying the government for alternative solutions, such as underground cables.
What is the main reason for the protests against the pylon project?: Scottish Power Energy Networks (SPEN) plans to construct 60m-high pylons across the Scottish Borders to transmit wind farm energy to England. This project, part of a larger national grid upgrade, faces strong opposition from residents concerned about the visual impact and environmental consequences.
What is the larger context of this project within the UK's energy infrastructure?: The Cross Border Connection project aims to facilitate the transfer of renewable energy between Scotland and England. However, the overhead pylon proposal is facing significant resistance in the Scottish Borders due to the perceived negative impacts on the landscape and communities.
What alternative solutions are being suggested by protesters and their supporters?: MP John Lamont supports the protesters' concerns and has organized a meeting to discuss the issue with SPEN officials. He believes that underground cabling is a more environmentally-friendly solution that should be explored.

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