A former analyst for the £2bn Wash tidal barrage project has stirred controversy by donating to an opposing MP.
- Centre Port UK is planning an 18km tidal barrage to connect Lincolnshire and Norfolk, aiming to introduce tidal energy-powered infrastructure.
- Concerns have been raised by wildlife groups about the potential ecological damage to the Wash’s salt marshes and mudflats.
- Ian Devereux, a former consultant on the project, distanced himself before donating to MP James Wild, a critic of the barrage.
- Centre Port UK has publicly detached itself from Devereux following his contribution to Wild’s election fund.
In a move that has raised eyebrows in both political and environmental circles, Ian Devereux, a former consultant for the ambitious £2 billion Wash tidal barrage project, has made a notable donation to James Wild, the Conservative MP for North West Norfolk, who opposes the project. This development has added a layer of intrigue to the ongoing debate about the project’s viability and its potential environmental impact.
Centre Port UK envisions the Wash tidal barrage as a transformative infrastructure endeavour, integrating tidal energy power, a deep sea container terminal, and improved transport links between Lincolnshire and Norfolk. The project also promises flood defence capabilities and green hydrogen generation. Notably, its design includes a dual carriageway meant to significantly reduce travel times and alleviate congestion on local roads.
However, Centre Port UK’s project has not been without its detractors. Environmental groups have voiced significant concerns over the possible threats to the salt marshes and mudflats of the Wash, crucial habitats for various avian species. Adding to the opposition is James Wild, who has stated that “The Wash is one of the most important habitats in Norfolk and rightly has many special designations to protect it.” He maintains that the current plans do not sufficiently mitigate the environmental risks.
Ian Devereux’s connection to this contentious project evolved rapidly and publicly. Having participated in promoting the project, Devereux clarified his lack of formal ties to Centre Port UK by early 2023. Despite this, his donation to Wild, recorded as £2,500 for a general election fund, underscores the complexities of his stance on the project.
Centre Port UK has responded to the situation by emphasising the absence of any current relationship with Devereux. James Sutcliffe, CEO of the development company, stated that Centre Port UK has not communicated with MP Wild and requested the removal of any association between Devereux and the project. The reticence around this matter reflects the intricate ballet between environmental responsibility, political manoeuvring, and infrastructural ambition.
The ongoing discourse highlights the friction between pioneering infrastructure projects and environmental stewardship.
