More on CO2 Pipeline

The deadline for the initial consultation on the proposed pipeline corridor is next Monday 30^th September 2024 and as a result we have been redoubling our efforts to ensure that the forest voice is heard. I must pay tribute to Mary Montagu-Scott who has, through a WhatsApp Group, brought many concerned voices together. If you wish to be added to this group, please let me know.

So, what briefly has been happening?

Networking – we have been in contact with other concerned organisations including, Solent Protection Society, Norleywood Society, Campaign for National Parks, CPRE Hampshire, Countryside Landowners Association. Building up this network could be vital in the future.

We will be meeting the New Forest National Park Authority (NFNPA) before the deadline.

Press Release – earlier this week we issued a Press Release to major local and national media outlets.

Our Formal Response – will be submitted by the deadline. It is in its final draft which has enabled us to draw on valuable insights from other concerned parties. For example, the responses of the NFNPA and Beaulieu PC can be found at Beaulieu Parish Council Response and NFNPA Response

What can you do if you are concerned?  You can:

• Learn more by looking at the Solent Protection Society website – they have brought together a valuable collection of resources on carbon capture and the implications of the pipeline.
• Respond to the Consultation although the options are limited. You can only indicate a preferred option so not helpful if your objection is more far-reaching.
• Sign this Petition. Watch out there is a similar Change Petition but just for the IOW routes.
• Attend a Zoom Meeting today held by New Forest Association of Local Councils Friday 27/09/24 at 14.00 by following this link Topic: Emergency Zoom Meeting
  Meeting ID: 833 8866 2544
  Passcode: 061719
• Write a more detailed response to Exxon copying in your MP and local councillor. You might want to include the following points:
  * Damage to the sensitive, irreplaceable and unique environment and habitats of the New Forest.
  * Inadequate consideration of other routes or options including underwater pipelines or ship transport.
  * Insufficient detail to assess the viability and green credentials of this carbon capture proposal.
  * Uncertainty surrounding the safety of CO2 pipelines and storage facilities particularly given the proximity of residential areas, schools and other public facilities.

The consultation is not the end but rather the beginning of what could be a long road if the mainland corridor is chosen.
We very much hope it is NOT but, if it is, we will be fighting with others for a government refusal of permission.