Severn Barrage proposal encounters opposition from environmentalists.
UK Environmental groups are divided over the proposed tidal barrage across the Severn estuary. The rupture follows last week’s government announcement of an inquiry into the Severn scheme.
The Sustainable Development Commission (SDC), an influential UK government advisory body, has endorsed proposals for the tidal barrage. The Commission has agreed to the scheme so long as it meets "tough" environmental conditions and remains in public ownership.
"We are excited about the contributions a Severn Barrage could make to a more sustainable future, but not at any cost," said SDC Chairman Jonathon Porritt.
However, environmental groups such as the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), Friends of the Earth (FoE) and WWF are not convinced.
FoE Cymru energy spokesman Neil Crumpton said: "The £14bn Severn barrage would be a hugely expensive, environmentally damaging and legally questionable mega-project."