Plans for major carbon dioxide pipeline across Staffordshire

A new consultation has been launched on plans for a major carbon dioxide pipeline across Staffordshire.

The Peak Cluster project would transport CO2 emissions from the Cauldon Cement Plant in the Staffordshire Moorlands and three others in Derbyshire to an offshore storage site in the Irish Sea, via a series of underground pipes, with the aim of reducing the industry’s huge carbon footprint.

Peak Cluster Ltd has now launched a second public consultation on revised proposals for the pipeline, following an initial engagement exercise earlier this year.

A number of changes and refinements have been made to the proposed route in response to feedback along with new technical studies and environmental surveys.

In Staffordshire, the pipeline will run from Cauldon to Leek, roughly parallel to the A523, before swinging around the north of the town. It would then head in a north-west direction towards Ryecroft Gate, again parallel to the A523, and then turn east towards Congleton.

The biggest change to the route in Staffordshire will see the pipeline pass south of Abbey Green, near Leek, instead of to the north.

Peak Cluster has also identified its preferred location for a block valve station to the east of Leek, off Stile House Lane, near Bradnop. Block valves would be use to isolate sections of pipelines for maintenance and during emergencies.

Along with the proposed route changes, Peak Cluster has also refined the pipeline corridor from 300 metres to 100 metres in most areas.

David Parkin, CEO of Peak Cluster, said: “Earlier this year, we received more than 5,500 pieces of feedback during our first phase of consultation. Alongside the results of our ongoing studies and assessments, this feedback enabled us to make changes to around 15 er cent of the proposed pipeline route, reduce the pipeline corridor to 100 metres in most areas, and refine the design and locations of infrastructure along the route.

“These changes have, in many cases, reduced the potential impact of the project on local communities. We are holding this additional consultation to hear from those who know their area best, helping us further develop our plans for Peak Cluster, ahead of the next major phase of consultation on the wider project design next summer.”

If a Development Consent Order for the pipeline is granted in 2029, the project is expected to be operational by 2032.

The public consultation will run until 18 December. A consultation event will take place at Leek Town Football Club on 7 December. To register, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/peak-cluster-leek-consultation-event-7th-december-tickets-2003962928063?aff=oddtdtcreator

There will also be a Staffordshire public webinar on 17 November, at 6.30pm. To register for the webinar, visit https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_f0HwVRBeQGGAFEEModuFNw#/registration

For more information about the Peak Cluster project and the consultation, visit http://www.peakcluster-consultation.co.uk/