IN response to growing concerns among residents and businesses of Hordon-on-the-Hill, James McMurdock, MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock, has written to The Rt Hon Edward Miliband, Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, urging immediate reconsideration of the National Grid’s East Anglia project. The proposal involves the installation of 180 km of 400kV overhead cables, supported by 50-metre-high pylons, stretching from Norwich to Tilbury, including through the historic village of Hordon-on-the-Hill.
In his letter, McMurdock highlights the potential detrimental impact on local communities, the environment, and historically significant areas. The village of Hordon-on-the-Hill, over a thousand years old and mentioned in the Domesday Book, is particularly at risk. “This proposal threatens wildlife, degrades the beauty of our green spaces, and jeopardises historically significant areas,” McMurdock writes, expressing the concerns of his constituents.
“It is vital we balance infrastructure needs with the protection of our cherished landscapes and heritage. I will continue to work with the community to ensure that your voices are heard and that we seek alternative solutions that minimise disruption,” McMurdock added.
McMurdock also criticised the consultation process, describing it as a ‘box-ticking exercise’ rather than a genuine effort to engage with the community. “National Grid’s refusal to meet with local residents has denied the community an important opportunity for dialogue,” he said, noting that alternative routes involving existing pylons were ignored by project representatives.
McMurdock has formally requested that Secretary of State Miliband attend a public meeting in Hordon-on-the-Hill to directly address the concerns of the local community. Additionally, he has called for the reconsideration of National Grid’s “Predominantly Offshore Options” to preserve the landscape and avoid long-term negative impacts. “While offshore options may involve higher upfront costs, they will protect our natural environment, maintain the beauty of our village, and safeguard our community’s quality of life,” said McMurdock.
The proposed route cuts through rural areas, villages, and near historic buildings in Norfolk, Essex, and Suffolk, with the only exception being the Dedham Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), where cables will be buried.
ENDSal
I thoroughly agree with and support him. All cables should now be buried as a matter of law. We CAN afford. We shouldn’t have to sacrifice our precious countryside and historical beauty.