Welsh Government is consulting on changes to law that would allow some hydropower schemes to be built without any requirement for planning permission.  This would severely reduce the scrutiny of such developments and their siting, design, construction and landscape impacts.

Please take a couple of minutes to read, amend, sign and send this template response: UCO and GDPO consultation response on hydropower

Send your response to planconsultations-i@gov.wales by the deadline of 28th September 2018

You can also send your comments by post to UCO & GPDO Consultation, Planning Directorate, Welsh Government, Cathays Park,  Cardiff, CF10 3NQ

It’s true that the planning process hasn’t stopped rivers being trashed in recent years by cowboys who form a small but highly destructive part of the hydro industry.  Some have got away with it, others have been convicted and fined.  Removing the scrutiny of the planning process, however imperfect, is not the answer.  Please help us send a clear message to Welsh Government that our rivers need improved protection rather than a free for all.

Please act by 28th September – it will only take a few minutes at most.  Thank you.