Fresh Round of Public Consultation Launched for New Power Line Plan

The PA Media has announced a fresh round of consultations over the proposed long-distance power line. The 56-mile (90 km) overhead line is set to run from substations just outside Cottingham in East Yorkshire all the way to High Marnham in Nottinghamshire. According to National Grid, this power line is essential for transporting energy generated by wind farms located in the North Sea.

However, previous proposals faced significant controversy due to concerns about their impact on local landscapes. The North Lincolnshire Council had previously requested a reconsideration of the route citing potential aesthetic issues. In response, the latest proposals have incorporated feedback from two prior consultations carried out by National Grid.

The new proposed route will head south-west from Cottingham towards the River Ouse near Whitgift before making its way across the Isle of Axholme on the west side of the River Trent. A substantial portion of this route is expected to run alongside existing overhead power lines, which should mitigate some visual impacts.

Earlier consultations led to several modifications in the proposed route based on public feedback. For example, measures were taken to increase the distance between the new line and villages like Skidby and Bentley, located in East Yorkshire opposite each other. Additionally, adjustments have been made to reroute a part of the line away from Ellerker village near South Cave so as not to place pylons on both sides of it.

The North Lincolnshire Council had previously expressed concerns that new power lines could create a “jarring intrusion” in the landscape, especially considering the Isle of Axholme’s historical and cultural significance. They warned this might adversely affect the local environments charm.

Details for the latest proposal can be found on National Grids official website. A series of online meetings will begin on February 25th, along with drop-in sessions starting at Dunham-on-Trent Village Hall on March 1st. All events are listed by the company’s public relations team.

National Grid anticipates submitting an application for consent to build this 400 kV line in 2026. If approval is given, it could be operational as early as 2031. This new power link aims at facilitating more sustainable energy distribution across the region.