Plans unveiled for Solway barrage

The plans are at an early stage

Plans to build a barrage across the Solway to generate energy and boost tourism have been unveiled.

The University Club Carlisle, a think tank, is behind the proposal.

It would involve the construction of a mile-long barrage on the site of the old railway connection between Bowness-on-Solway and Annan.

The group estimates more than 200 megawatts of energy could be provided plus additional power from the Solway tidal surge.

It is also thought the barrage would be a new road link between North Cumbria and South West Scotland and would be developed as a tourist attraction in its own right.

Energy concerns

A freshwater lake of more than 16 sq miles would be created and those behind the project believe it could also help to provide a defence against flooding.

The proposal suggests setting up a community interest company to ensure that all profits would be reinvested in local communities.

It will now have to be considered by the relevant authorities and geological, ecological and social surveys commissioned.

One of those behind the plans, Nigel Catterson, said the project is at a very early stage. He said the plans were based on a study undertaken in 1966.

He said it would involve a balancing act between protecting the ecology and meeting energy needs.

He said: "The fact of the matter is that we have energy concerns and we have got considerations, both social and economical, and this will have a profound effect on all of those."