20th May 2008

West Glos Greens have written to The Forester questioning the new study into a Severn Barrage.

Yet another assessment into the viability of Severn tidal energy has been announced – at a cost of £3m. The contract has been awarded to a company called Parsons Brinckerhoff.

One of the potential projects for harnessing the power of the Severn is a barrage just down from the Second Severn Crossing, known locally as the English Stones Barrage.  Parsons Brinckerhoff call it the Shoots Barrage.

And here’s the thing: Parsons Brinckerhoff have apparently claimed ownership of the ‘Intellectual Property Rights of the Shoots Barrage’.  Isn’t there a ‘conflict of interest’ here?

There are very deep concerns over cost and long-term viability of the Barrages.  The Green Party promotes the construction of Tidal Lagoons – cheaper, community-sized, urgently required, more rapidly-built.

Can we expect an assessment of value, looking at all the options, or just one for the benefit of Parsons Brinckerhoff?

With very best wishes,
James Greenwood

West Glos Green Party