You deserve clear, honest information
A major Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) pipeline network is being proposed across the region, with a route currently identified through Gawsworth and surrounding countryside.
This forms part of a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP), meaning decisions are made at a national level, but the impact is felt locally, by residents, landowners and the wider community.
Many people in Gawsworth are only just becoming aware of the scale of what is being proposed and what it could mean in practice.
What is being proposed
• A high pressure CO2 pipeline stretching approximately 200km
• A working corridor of around 30 to 40 metres in width
• Permanent restrictions on land use within the easement
• Above Ground Installations (AGIs) along the route
These are not temporary works. Once installed, the infrastructure and its associated restrictions are long term.
Why residents are asking questions
People across the village are raising concerns about how this could affect day to day life, the local environment and the long term future of the area.
Key concerns include:
• Construction disruption to homes, farmland and local roads
• Permanent changes to the use and character of rural land
• Impact on established wildlife habitats and protected landscapes
• Proximity to schools, play areas and residential properties
• Long term responsibility for monitoring and maintenance
• The effect on local ecosystems, including water sources and fisheries
This is about more than construction. It is about what remains afterwards.
Local impact in Gawsworth
The currently proposed route raises specific concerns for this community:
• Passes through the village close to the school
• Sits within protected Green Belt
• Affects the setting of historic buildings and the wider landscape
• Lies close to Danes Moss SSSI
• Interacts with natural springs feeding historic fishponds
• Requires access along roads not suited to heavy goods vehicles
• Includes an AGI site visible within the setting of Jodrell Bank
These are local, visible and long lasting issues.
Safety and long term considerations
CO2 pipeline incidents are rare, but where failures have occurred internationally, they have had serious consequences.
Residents are therefore asking reasonable questions about:
• How risks are assessed and managed
• Whether existing regulations fully account for CO2 transport
• Emergency response planning for local communities
• Long term accountability for the infrastructure
At present, many feel these questions have not been clearly answered.
Why this matters now
National infrastructure projects move forward whether communities engage or not.
The difference is whether local voices are heard and whether concerns are properly considered as part of the process.
Once decisions are made, options become limited.
What you can do next
You have the right to have your views heard.
• Register as an Interested Party to take part in the examination process
• Submit your views and evidence in writing
• Attend hearings if you wish to speak or observe
• If you are a landowner, understand your rights regarding access and compensation
Every representation must be considered by the examining authority.
Stay informed and get involved
Follow the local resident’s group for updates
Attend Gawsworth resident’s meetings to stay informed and involved
The resident’s group is working to ensure the community is properly represented and that all reasonable alternatives and impacts are fully considered.