Aquind interconnector: Cross-Channel critics highlight recent roadworks

The cable would make landfall at Eastney in Hampshire

Opponents of a proposed electricity link between Portsmouth and Normandy said recent roadworks showed how easily gridlock could be caused in the city.

Eastern Road in Portsmouth reopened on Monday after four days of work to repair a burst sewer pipe, leading to major traffic disruption.

The Let's Stop Aquind group said it illustrated how the city "cannot cope" with large scale construction work.

The A2030 Eastern Road was closed from Friday for "urgent" sewer repair works.

Southern Water apologised for the "significant closure" which saw both southbound lanes of the road closed between Farlington roundabout to Anchorage Road junction.

A diversion route was put in place for drivers, with Stagecoach bus services also disrupted.

The A2030 Eastern Road is one of the main routes in and out of Portsmouth

Proposals for the interconnector by Aquind Ltd by would see a cable would make landfall at Eastney and be laid through Portsmouth and the Hampshire countryside to Lovedean.

But campaigners, councillors and local MPs have raised concerns including environmental damage, air pollution and disruption across the city.

'More gridlock'

Let's Stop Aquind said it had contacted the Planning Inspectorate to highlight the issue following the roadworks on Eastern Road.

"Eastern Road cannot be even partly closed over a longer period of time.

"This would mean even more gridlock, congestion, increased air pollution, delays, effects on mental and physical health of residents," it said.

The company previously described the interconnector as "vital infrastructure" that would provide up to 5% of Britain's annual electricity consumption.

The proposals were first submitted in 2019. A government decision to block the project, made in 2022, was overturned in the High Court.

That meant the plans were sent back to ministers who are set to make a final decision soon.