A major gas pipeline from Bristol Port into an above-ground storage terminal in Avonmouth has been granted planning permission. Flogas Britain, a UK-based liquid petroleum gas (LPG) supplier, will construct the pipeline to the site, which was formerly owned by National Grid and has been a feature of the local landscape for several decades.
The plant was previously only able to store liquefied natural gas (LNG) but Flogas is planning to convert the facility into an LPG and green gas storage plant that is able to hold 34,564 tonnes. The company said the proposals would generate 50-100 construction jobs, as well as roles at Bristol Port and the Avonmouth site, with the works expected to complete in 2025.
Starting at Bristol Port with a new unloading facility, the pipeline will largely follow existing pipeline routes away from residential areas through predominantly industrial zones to the Avonmouth storage facility, Flogas said.
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According to the company, the twin-pipeline will create no visual impact and will increase the availability of LPG and Bio-LPG, enabling up to 20,000 tonnes to be discharged from a ship in 24 hours. The company said the pipeline would also eliminate the need for hundreds of road tanker visits to fill the facility.
Lee Gannon, Flogas Britain’s managing director, said the granting of planning permission for the pipeline was "the final piece in the jigsaw" for the "ground-breaking" project.
"We already have the Avonmouth storage facility and agreement in principle from Bristol Port and landowners for the pipeline route," he said. “The facility is set to give the local community a great economic boost, bringing millions of pounds to the area each year, along with a host of employment opportunities.
"Once operational it will provide security of supply to off-grid Britain, plus it’s completely future ready too. This means its fully compatible with renewable fuels and will be able to support homes and businesses as they make the important transition to a lower-carbon future."
Flogas said the Avonmouth facility would provide a "dependable" supply of LPG, but would also have the capability to import Bio-LPG – a fully renewable green gas alternative.
"It will also provide access to emerging renewable fuels not currently manufactured or available in the UK, helping to further futureproof Britain’s fuel supply," the company added.
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