Fowey Co-op delayed by infrastructure gridlock

Westcountry Land’s much-anticipated Co-op development in Fowey remains unopened – not due to construction issues, but because of a year-long delay securing a single electrical connection.

Despite investing over £100,000 in legal costs, work that will take just two days still can’t be completed. The root of the issue is structural: National Grid lacks the statutory powers to access land in the way that South West Water or other utility providers can. That leaves developers to navigate time-consuming legal negotiations with landowners, even for straightforward tasks.

This situation reflects a bigger problem facing the development industry. As the UK transitions to electric heating, EV infrastructure and solar, the ability to deliver electricity connections needs to keep pace. Government ambition on electrification is clear – but it must be matched with practical, legislative support for service providers.

Our Fowey Co-op is ready and waiting to serve the community. It’s time for the system to catch up.