There is currently a consultation open seeking views on a recommended approach to community benefits for electricity transmission network infrastructure. The deadline for response has now been extended to 15th June 2023.

The consultation provides an opportunity for the constructive voice of town and parish councils to be heard and in particular the appropriateness of the community benefit scheme.   Questions to consider include:

• is it appropriate for the community benefit scheme to be voluntary rather than compulsory and

• how can local councils be empowered to be engaged to shape how community benefit is delivered for a specific scheme.

Use this link to access the consultation which includes details of how to respond.

UPDATE:  it has been highlighted to us that the National Infrastructure Commission has put some good thinking into this consultation and town and parishes might find it useful to have considered these when responding.  See pages 27 to 29 and in particular the principles on page 29.   Use this link to access the NIC study report.

UPDATE: NALC have shared with us their response as the national association with mention of Suffolk.  Use this link to view their response.