Energy Minister Charles Hendry has today given approval for Wales and West Utilities to construct a 13 mile gas pipeline from Llanwrin in Powys to Dolgellau in Gwynedd, north Wales.
The pipeline will replace an existing pipeline which has reached the end of its life.
Hendry said: “The new pipeline will mean that thousands of residents in Gwynedd and Powys in north Wales will have a safe and secure supply of gas.
“Natural gas is the main source of heat for most households and so it is critical we have a modern network that provides supply on demand.
“In approving this pipeline I have made sure the plans meet stringent and comprehensive environmental standards.”
The new buried steel pipeline will roughly follow the route of the existing pipeline, with a deviation at Corris 7 miles to the north of Llanwrin.