To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps his Department is taking to help protect (a) agricultural land and (b) natural habitats from the potential impact of the (i) construction and (ii) maintenance of (A) the Great Grid Upgrade and (B) other major infrastructure projects.
Answered on
29 October 2024
Developers of electricity networks and all nationally significant infrastructure projects in England and Wales need to assess the impacts of their proposals, including on agricultural land, natural habitats and in terms of construction and maintenance. This is done through Environmental Impact and Habitats Regulations Assessments, which are then considered during the consenting process. This includes consideration of safeguarding Best and Most Versatile agricultural land and ensuring the protection of natural habitats.