It is proposed that an AGI will be built on green belt land in the village
An Above Ground Installation, often referred to as an AGI, is a permanent facility used to operate and manage a pipeline system.
Whilst the pipeline itself is buried underground, an AGI sits above ground and contains the equipment needed to control, monitor and maintain the flow of the pipeline. This can include valves, pressure control systems, monitoring equipment and access points for maintenance.
In the case of the proposed CO₂ pipeline network, AGIs form a key part of the infrastructure. They are not temporary compounds used during construction, they remain in place long term as operational sites.
This means they introduce permanent, visible infrastructure into the landscape. Depending on design and layout, this can include compounds, fencing, access tracks and equipment structures.
AGIs are also required to be accessible for ongoing inspection and maintenance, which means they bring continued activity to the site rather than being a one off installation.
Within the current proposal, an AGI is planned within green belt land in Gawsworth. This raises important planning considerations around the introduction of industrial infrastructure into protected areas, as well as its long term impact on the surrounding landscape and land use.
Understanding what an AGI is helps to put the proposal into context. This is not just about a pipeline below ground, it includes permanent above ground infrastructure that will form part of the area for years to come.