'We don't need your petty cash for pylons'

Rural campaigners blast community 'bribes' in grid plan

- Steph Spyro

CAMPAIGNERS blasted a plan to offer locals money if electricity cable towers are built near their homes as "petty cash for pylons".

Rishi Sunak vowed to "speed up" decisions on big energy projects to boost capacity and reach net zero and residents affected may be given a lump sum or an annual payment.

Energy companies might also be required to fund amenities such as village halls so that locals "benefit" if their area helps expand the grid.