THE National Grid has given poor customer satisfaction over the ten years of the controversial Vale of York pylon project, says Revolt, the group fighting against the building of the overhead powerline.

It aims to prove its claim and send the results of a questionnaire to the National Grid chairman, hoping for improvement.

Revolt chairman Dr Mike O'Carroll told the D&S Times that landowners along the new powerline had been asked how satisfied they were with NG, whether they felt fairly informed, and whether information had been clearly and fully communicated and questions answered. The questionnaire also asked if they thought compensation was fair, and if contractors had an unsatisfactory attitude or conduct.

There have been many clashes between landowners, Revolt and NG contractors and officers since the start of construction work.

Farmers have refused access to their land, and one is facing an injunction in the High Court later this month because she refused to let workmen on her land.

Dr O'Carroll added: "There have been many criticisms of NG over the years, which a more modern company might have investigated. I hope this survey will provide useful pointers for NG. It is surprising that a company of NG's size and wealth has not been more pro-active in its approach to its suctomers."

For the National Grid, Stuart Grand said: "NG has a good working relationship with the overwhelming majority of the landowners affected by this new transmission line and their agents. The company tries very hard to maintain this.

"The process includes regular meetings to review progress, the provision of information, and takes all reasonable measures to minimise the impact of our work."