In my ongoing campaign against the line of massive onshore pylons proposed to run from Norwich to Tilbury, through Ingatestone, Dunton Garden Village and Haverings Grove, I met with representatives from National Grid this week for an update on the ongoing consultation process.
Last year a large consultation was held from April to July, asking for feedback and comments on the line of route for the pylons. This has led to some small changes being made in this area including the pylon near Buttsbury Church is being slightly moved so the view of and from the church is not blocked.
The only change which needs further consultation is in Haverings Grove. The proposed line of pylons is very close to an existing overhead supply line of pylons, so it is suggested the 132 Kilovolt supply cables are put underground, to allow the 400 kilovolt lines to go overhead. I am concerned this will mean the people of Haverings Grove have the worst of both words with land being dug up for underground cabling as other land is dug up for pylon installation.
The proposed change to the previously consulted plan for Haverings Grove mans another consultation is taking place. There are no face to face meetings but concerned residents can register for webinars on Monday 17th March at 6pm and Tuesday 18th March at 12noon. Details of how to register are below (information from National Grid)
Attend a webinar
To give people an opportunity to ask the project team questions, we are holding three webinars via Microsoft Teams. The webinars which will cover this change will be held on 17 March 2025 at 6:00 pm and 18 March 2025 at 12 noon.
You can sign up for a webinar on our website: nationalgrid.com/norwich-to-tilbury
• Essex – 17 March 2025 at 6:00 pm
• Essex and Thurrock – 18 March 2025 at 12 noon
You can also call us on: 0800 915 2497 if you have any questions.
Visit our website nationalgrid.com/norwich-to-tilbury where you will find maps, consultation materials, and our online feedback questionnaire.
Once this consultation is complete, I understand National Grid will submit a planning application at the end of the summer, which then goes to the Planning Inspectorate for consideration, with a final decision due to be made by the Secretary of State by the end of 2026.
Local people will be able to register as an interested party with the Planning Inspectorate and I will provide information about this at the time.
