"Last week, the Secretary of State gave permission for the East Anglia One and East Anglia Two offshore wind farms. Whilst I have always supported the offshore elements of the application, I have consistently spoken against the associated onshore infrastructure and the impact on Suffolk Coastal, particularly in relation to the proposed substation at Friston. I engaged extensively in the planning process and suggesting alternatives including the brownfield site at Bradwell, helped by its existing substation network. Change is coming with the proposed National Policy Statements for Energy recognising cumulative impact and placing an expectation on applicants to demonstrate how the optimum connection locations have been identified but the timing of this application hasn’t helped us. I’m obviously really disappointed with the decision – and intend to read the reasoning very carefully before providing further comment.
In happier news, I was pleased to attend the opening of the specialist special educational needs centre at Saxmundham School, which will make a great learning environment for pupils. It’s really great news that some of the most vulnerable young people in our part of the county will have access to this type of facility so close to home. Well done to Suffolk County Council for providing the funding to deliver it. I also visited Alde Valley Academy recently to meet the Chief Executive of Waveney Valley Academies Trust.
Finally, the impact of the pandemic and Putin’s assault on Ukraine means that energy supply and prices continue to be unstable. In his Spring Statement, the Chancellor set out plans to try and minimise the impact as much as possible through a range of measures. This includes giving a tax cut to nearly 30 million people through a rise in the National Insurance threshold - saving the average employee over £330 a year. As well as the biggest cut in fuel duty ever. This builds on the previous £9bn package of support to help households, including a £150 energy bill rebate for around 80% of homes in the country. I know things will be difficult for many families and I urge people to seek help if they’re struggling either via the Citizens Advice Bureau or Suffolk County Council. Ofgem also have some great advice on their website."