The results challenge a long-standing assumption in planning debates. They find that visual impact, which is often cited as a leading objection, is in fact the lowest-ranked concern for the public, with just 11 percent of respondents selecting it as a main consideration for future energy needs.
This view is consistent across the political spectrum, from 12 percent of Labour and Conservative voters to 11 percent of Reform UK voters and 10 percent of both Liberal Democrat and Green Party voters, highlighting near unanimous national alignment.
Instead, the public is focused on the practical outcomes of energy infrastructure such as lower bills, secure livelihoods and a strong, growing economy.
Significantly larger portions of the public prioritise industrial competitiveness (39 percent), reducing air pollution (37 percent) and protecting existing jobs (25 percent).
Importantly, this does not mean people and developers are unconcerned about where and how infrastructure is built. Rather, it shows that visual impact is not as high a priority as is often presented in planning debates, and the public is prepared to support infrastructure that drives growth and job creation even when there is a visual impact.
It remains essential, however, for infrastructure developers to continue working with communities, particularly in areas where there are cumulative impacts from development of multiple projects.
The findings underline strong support for delivering energy infrastructure at pace, helping the UK strengthen its resilience against global price shocks, volatile energy markets and supply disruptions, while accelerating the transition to clean power.
Although visual impact continues to feature prominently in planning debates, this new data shows it does not reflect the priorities of most people. Across communities and political divides, the focus is firmly on building a competitive, secure and future-ready energy system.
With energy projects being developed across the country, strong public support for investment, job protection and a stronger British industry is a welcome signal.
“We’re encouraged by the results, which show strong public support for energy infrastructure focused on energy security, climate change, jobs and a competitive UK industry” said Alfred Malmros, co-founder of Early Studies. “These priorities far outweigh concerns about visual impact and reinforce the importance of delivering the infrastructure needed to ensure we have a secure supply of electricity. for clean, secure power. Renewable energy is an infinite source which can’t be controlled by other countries and is already lowering wholesale electricity costs. With all its economic and security benefits, it’s clear clean power is the future our public wants.”
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