National Grid has today (2 November) submitted an appeal to the Planning Inspectorate against the refusal of planning permission for a Pressure Reduction Installation (PRI) at Corse in Gloucestershire.

The application was considered by the Forest of Dean Development Control Committee on 10 October 2006 and refused despite the Council’s planning officers recommending approval of the application.

Commenting, David Mercer, National Grid Senior Project Manager said: “Having carefully considered the reasons for refusal and in view of the national importance of the PRI and the associated natural gas pipeline to securing UK gas supplies, we have decided to appeal.”

-Ends-

Further information from Caroline Davidson, Project Communications on 07785 254696

National Grid

National Grid is a leading international energy infrastructure business - the largest utility in the UK.

Through National Grid Gas plc (formerly Transco), it owns and operates over 6,800 kilometres of high-pressure transmission pipeline across Great Britain, and 132,000 kilometres of lower-pressure distribution gas mains in the North West, the Midlands, East Anglia and North London – more than half of Britain's gas transportation network, delivering gas to around 11 million homes, offices and factories.

Through National Grid Electricity Transmission plc, the company operates the high-voltage electricity transmission network across Great Britain, and owns the network in England and Wales.

National Grid continues to manage the National Gas Emergency Service freephone line 0800 111 999*.

*All calls are recorded and may be monitored.

www.nationalgrid.com