A PRIVATE firm is prepared to develop plans for a Severn Barrage, despite the government shelving the scheme.

Chris Huhne, Secretary of State for Energy, announced last month that a two-year feasibility study had ruled out the £34.3 billion project because of public spending constraints.

Despite the need for greener energy sources, and the 10-mile Cardiff to Weston barrage being able to generate five per cent of the country’s energy needs, the scheme was put on hold.

However, Corlan Hafren Limited, a consortium established to spearhead the development of the Cardiff to Weston barrage, claims the scheme is still viable.

The company and its associates believe they can deliver the Severn Barrage through private investment, creating tens of thousands of new jobs in the region.

In its own specially commissioned report, Corlan Hafren claims the barrage would lead to a surge in industrial regeneration, and create new leisure industries, because of a reduced tidal range.

The barrage could also be used to enhance transport links between England and South Wales through road and rail, providing an alternative to the two Severn bridges and tunnel.

A disadvantage of the Cardiff to Weston Severn Barrage would be the almost guaranteed destruction of 40 to 60 per cent of intertidal habitats, but Corlan Hafren has said there would be large scale compensation habitat opportunities.

Tony Pryor, Corlan Hafren director, said the company could help the government achieve its green targets.

He said: "With one of the largest tidal ranges in the world, the site has the potential to provide guaranteed energy output for well over a century.

"The projected 120-year lifespan of the Severn tidal barrage from Lavernock Point to Brean Down means the scheme also has the potential to provide an economic way to produce electricity, in terms of cost per kilowatt, as part of an appropriate mix of renewable energy sources."

For more information visit www.corlanhafren.co.uk