Alicia Kearns MP and local farmers have successfully convinced Anglian Water to re-commence works on the Grantham to Peterborough Section of the Strategic Pipeline Alliance (SPA) across Lincolnshire earlier than previously expected.
In November Alicia Kearns brought together the NFU, Anglian Water, Grimsthorpe Estate and local farmers to discuss issues with Anglian Water’s pipeline programme and the significant impact delays were having on arable land. Following the meeting to resolve the issues raised, work is now scheduled to restart earlier than expected – although an exact date is awaited.
All landowners and occupiers across the scheme will be contacted to arrange meetings over the coming months, to answer any questions or concerns and to discuss the impact of the revised programme on their land.
The SPA programme is designed to support Anglian Water to adapt to regional climate challenges, increase resilience to drought and continue to serve the rapidly growing population locally.
Alicia Kearns, Member of Parliament for Rutland and Stamford, said:
“After bringing together our local farmers, landowners and Anglian Water to raise the significant concerns we had, I am pleased we have been able to convince Anglian Water that our farmers and communities could not put up with state our landscapes have been left in for as long as they planned.
“This is good news for all involved, and whilst we await the exact re-start date, I know how relieved farmers and landowners are.”
Anglian Water said:
“Following the progress of work on our strategic pipeline in the south of our region, we have made the decision to recommence work on the Grantham to Peterborough section earlier than scheduled. We hope this is good news for our landowners, occupiers and communities along this section of pipeline.
“Our team will be discussing amended timescales directly with these customers, factoring in potential challenges beyond our control, including the impact of weather and meeting crucial ecological and environmental standards.
“We have always said the SPA programme is essential to help us adapt to regional climate challenges, increase resilience to drought and ensure we continue to serve the rapidly growing population of the East of England. This need has not changed, and the programme forms a significant part of our next business plan until 2030.”
