The Planning Inspectorate has decided to allow the development of a gas-fired power station on the outskirts of Axbridge, on the basis of national infrastructure.
Many residents, Axbridge Town Council, Compton Bishop and Cross Parish Council, James Heappey MP and local councillor Graham Godwin-Pearson opposed the development, but the appeal decision is final.
Graham says, "I am bitterly disappointed that the Planning Inspectorate has overruled us locally. In my mind it is an affront to democracy and clear to me that an overhaul of the system is needed desperately, which I hope will come in the near future as the Government looks to put more planning powers in the hands of communities.
"The last thing we need is another industrial development on another field in Axbridge, especially one that is burning fossil fuels."
"In the meantime, I commend local residents for their tireless efforts in opposition to the power station in the first place. We may not have been successful this time, but by forcing the decision to the highest level these efforts have shone a light on what is wrong with the system."
