Over 300 Welsh Farmers Challenge Energy Company in High Court
More than 300 Welsh farmers and landowners are pursuing legal action against Green GEN Cymru, accusing the company of abusing its power unlawfully. The dispute centers on alleged coercive and reckless tactics used to gain access to private land for surveys tied to three new pylon highways.
Allegations Against Green GEN Cymru
The group claims Green GEN Cymru operated without regard for environmental safeguards or the wellbeing of local communities. The proposed project would cover over 200 km of Welsh countryside, crossing Powys, Ceredigion, Carmarthenshire, reaching the Cambrian Mountains, and ending in Shropshire.
- The company is accused of exceeding its authority as an Acquiring Authority, which permits compulsory land acquisition for public projects.
- Green GEN Cymru allegedly entered lands without permission and failed to serve legally required notices.
- There are reports of threats involving bailiffs and arrests, creating a notable power imbalance.
- Officials reportedly crossed farm boundaries in contaminated clothing, risking the spread of bovine TB and sheep scab.
Legal Action and Statements
The judicial review, filed by New South Law, challenges these actions as beyond legal power limits. Natalie Barstow, founder of Justice for Wales and lead claimant, emphasized the need for fairness in energy project planning:
“We have been left no choice but to seek legal action through the High Court as a result of this bullying campaign by Green GEN.”
Project Impact and Concerns
The proposed pylon highways scheme threatens vast rural areas and raises significant concerns over environmental and community impact.
Author's summary: Welsh farmers are taking a stand in court against Green GEN Cymru’s alleged unlawful land access and intimidation tactics amid plans for extensive pylon highways, demanding respect for legal and environmental protections.