Harry Potter enthusiasts prompt rerouting of UK-Ireland electricity cable away from beloved fictional elf's resting place

Fans of the wizarding world have successfully influenced

Fans of the wizarding world have successfully influenced the path of a major energy infrastructure project, after raising objections to plans that would have placed underground cables near a site cherished by followers of the Harry Potter series.

The controversy began when a project manager mentioned in a BBC interview that the proposed route for the interconnector—a high-voltage link between Britain and Ireland—would pass beneath the location popularly known as "Dobby's grave." This spot, on a beach in Pembrokeshire, Wales, became a pilgrimage site for fans after it was used as the filming location for the house-elf's burial scene in the final movie.

Within days of the comment, an online campaign gained traction, with fans arguing that the grave—marked by a small stone and often decorated with painted pebbles and socks, a nod to the character's love for the garment—should remain undisturbed. The outcry prompted the project's developers to reconsider their approach.

A spokesperson for the energy company confirmed that

A spokesperson for the energy company confirmed that, following consultations with local communities and fan groups, the cable route has been shifted slightly inland. The revised plan avoids the immediate area around the grave, ensuring that the site remains accessible and untouched for visitors.

The adjustment adds a modest increase to the project's overall cost and timeline, but the developers emphasized that respecting cultural and sentimental landmarks is an important part of responsible planning. They also noted that the change was made voluntarily, ahead of any formal regulatory request.

Local tourism officials have welcomed the decision, noting that the grave attracts thousands of visitors each year, contributing to the regional economy. A representative for the fan community expressed gratitude, stating that the gesture reinforces the positive relationship between large infrastructure projects and the communities they affect.

The interconnector, once completed, will allow for the

The interconnector, once completed, will allow for the sharing of renewable energy between the two nations, a key step toward reducing carbon emissions. The revised route is expected to be finalized in the coming months, with construction slated to begin next year.