Lamb encourages Council to make an approach to extend mains gas network

9.51.30am GMT Mon 19th Dec 2005

Massive increases in fuel bills in North Norfolk have led to calls from residents and Liberal Democrat MP Norman Lamb for an extension of the mains gas network.

"The Energy Minister has advised me that central funding to extend the mains gas network to rural communities is not available," said Mr Lamb. "However, an approach by the council to an independent gas transporter may lead to a dialogue between the community and the industry to establish the practicality of extending the network."

"I have called on the District Council to make such an approach.

"I certainly think that we should explore the possibility of extending the mains gas network in North Norfolk, given the punishing fuel bills that many people suffer," said Norman Lamb.

"Many people in rural North Norfolk have seen massive increases in their fuel bills particularly where they rely on oil for heating. The Energy White Paper back in 2003 recognised that communities which had no gas supply suffered a real disadvantage."