Wirral strikes down Peak Cluster access request
Summary
Wirral Council has unanimously refused Peak Cluster permission to access council-owned land for survey work related to a proposed carbon capture pipeline. The decision is likely to delay the project, though councillors acknowledged it may not ultimately prevent the scheme from progressing through other legal routes.
Why it matters
The article highlights how local authority access decisions can affect the early-stage delivery of major infrastructure projects, including survey access and programme timing. Surveyors involved in infrastructure, land access, or compulsory acquisition matters should note the potential for legal challenge and delay where permissions are refused.
Key points
- Wirral Council refused access for survey work on council-owned land.
- Peak Cluster is a proposed 200-kilometre carbon capture pipeline linked to cement and lime plants and offshore storage.
- The project is described as nationally significant and may proceed via magistrates court access powers.
- Councillors cited environmental and safety concerns in opposing the request.
- The refusal is expected to delay, but not necessarily stop, the scheme.
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