Cross border gas pipeline to get green light
The British government today signalled its plans to give the green light for the construction of cross-border gas pipeline.
British environment minister Lord Rooker announced it was his intention to grant planning permission for the multi-million pound project.
The underground pipeline will be approximately 165 kilometres long and will cross the border at Forkhill, Co Armagh.
Lord Rooker said: “This significant infrastructure project is good news for the Northern Ireland economy.
“The South-North gas pipeline will expand the existing transmission network and link the systems north and south of the border providing security of supply. I am delighted to announce this decision before Christmas.”
Eight planning applications will be approved for the pipeline which will take an underground route through Newry and Mourne, Armagh, Banbridge, Craigavon, Antrim, Newtownabbey and Larne district council areas.
The new pipeline will link into the existing North West pipeline at Ballyalbanagh north of Ballyclare.
It will be the facilitator for the onward distribution to a series of population centres along the route including Newry, Banbridge, Armagh and Craigavon.
British energy minister Angela Smith said she welcomed the news planning approval will be granted, saying it will allow construction to get under way in the new year.
“The new pipeline will enhance the existing gas infrastructure in Northern Ireland, and help promote both the environmental and social benefits which gas offers for consumers,” she said.
