Suffolk councillors say energy bill relief funding 'not sufficient'

Jeremy Hunt announced his plans during the Autumn Statement

Councillors have said new energy bill relief funding for people living near planned pylons is "not sufficient".

National Grid has proposed an additional line of pylons and cables across Babergh and Mid Suffolk.

On Wednesday, Jeremy Hunt announced plans to offer £10,000 off electricity bills over 10 years for those living closest to new transmission infrastructure in Suffolk.

Babergh's acting leader John Ward said: "Constable country is not for sale."

He continued: "Once the landscape has been industrialised, nothing can compensate for this loss."

Local communities are calling for National Grid to bury power lines

Babergh District Council has restated its objections to the proposed pylons cutting through the countryside, commenting on the impact the project would have on the environment, local communities and businesses.

During his Autumn Statement, where he announced numerous tax and spending measures, Mr Hunt announced those living near the new pylons could get up to £1,000 a year for 10 years, for energy bill compensation.

But councillors said this was not enough to offset the impact on the local area.

'Better option'

David Beavan, East Suffolk Council's deputy leader, called the measure a "bribe".

"It's welcome for those people who will get it, but it's no compensation in terms of what they're planning to do to our countryside.

"What we need is a proper long-term investment, not political gimmicks like this to try and bribe people."

It is still unclear as to how close a house will need to be in order to qualify for this funding.

Babergh's deputy leader, councillor Deborah Saw, added: "Much more work needs to be done on this, taking on board the feedback of our communities."

She continued that there was a "better option", and called for a "strategic off-shore grid, which will minimise onshore infrastructure and the associated impacts of that".

Speaking ahead of the announcement, a spokesman for the Treasury said the plan would help with the required updating of the UK's electricity network upgrade.

"By speeding up the planning system - including the rollout of electric vehicle charge-points - we will be tackling one of the most common issues raised by businesses who are keen to invest in the UK," he said.