THE Government today scrapped multi-billion pound plans for a huge tidal barrage between Brean Down and Wales and poured its support instead into new nuclear reactors such as Hinkley C.
Chris Huhne, Secretary of State for Energy, said the Severn Estuary barrage would cost £30billion and there was no “strategic case” for publicly funding it.
He said: “Other low carbon options represent a better deal for taxpayers and consumers.”
Supporters have previously claimed the barrage could provide 5% of Britain's electricity.
Tessa Munt, LibDem MP for Burnham and Highbridge, told the Mercury yesterday: “I know the barrage was contentious but I think the Severn offers a solution as an alternative energy resource and could power the majority of homes in the South-West.
“I hope the Government will look at other possible projects in the Severn, because not only are they good for filling the energy gap but it would also be fantastic for jobs in this area.”
Bridgwater MP Ian Liddell-Grainger said he supported the barrage but backed the Government's decision on cost grounds.
He said: “The barrage will see the light of the day at some point in the future, when the technologies are cheaper.”
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