New Forest East MP Julian Lewis has been advised today (3 October 2024) that ExxonMobil is abandoning its controversial scheme to build a pipeline from Fawley Refinery across either the Isle of Wight or the New Forest carrying liquefied carbon dioxide for undersea disposal. The company has decided that, in the absence of any long-term, stable Government plan, the £5 billion investment involved is currently uncompetitive.

Sir Julian commented:

“This will come as a great relief to numerous constituents in the Forest and on the Island. I commend ExxonMobil both for its willingness to think again and its assurances that its valued and vital contribution to the local economy will continue, despite this reluctant but welcome change of course.”