The debate over the possibility of a Severn barrage
to tap into the tidal power of the estuary was again, last week, resurrected by Shadow Welsh Secretary, Peter Hain.
Thought to have been deleted from the Whitehall in-box following Energy Secretary Chris Huhne’s statement last October it now seems to be a live issue once again. Given the barrage would provide a source of clean energy and an economic boost to a region much in need of one, it defies logic not to explore the issue further.
And given the tragic events in Japan following the earthquake and tsunami, it is doubly difficult to see how it is possible not to make out a strategic case for the barrage. As if the tragic loss of life wasn’t enough, the Japanese earthquake is a serious reminder of the ways in which our economies and energy supplies can be compromised by events beyond our control.
While the UK is not susceptible to earthquakes in the same way as Japan, there is always the possibility of other natural and political factors compromising our economy and energy supply. Given the barrage could deliver five per cent of the UK’s energy supplies from renewable, non-nuclear sources, it’s long term viability and benefits look assured. There are also the potential benefits from the possibility of improved transport links between South Wales and the South West.
While such a major project would throw up many difficult and contentious issues, we have surely the inventiveness and capacity for innovation to deal with these in ways that can deliver yet further economic and environmental benefits.
