UK: The Planning Inspectorate has accepted National Grid’s development consent application for the Norwich to Tilbury project, a major milestone in Britain’s electricity transmission upgrade. The proposed 180 km high-voltage line will use both overhead and underground cables, linking Norwich Main substation in Norfolk, Bramford substation in Suffolk, and a new Tilbury North substation in Essex.
With electricity demand expected to double in the coming years, the project will strengthen transmission capacity across East Anglia, a hub for offshore wind and renewable generation. It will help deliver cleaner, more affordable and more secure home-grown energy to Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex and beyond.
The scheme is part of The Great Grid Upgrade, National Grid’s programme of major projects across England and Wales to expand transmission capacity, reduce bills, and support regional economic growth.
Over three years of consultation, National Grid has received around 20,000 pieces of feedback from communities. This has shaped the plans, including an underground section near Great Horkesley close to Dedham Vale National Landscape. The project will also provide millions of pounds in community benefit funding and deliver long-term gains for biodiversity through close work with wildlife experts.
The application’s acceptance means the project now enters the pre-examination phase, during which the public and stakeholders can register to take part in the planning process. Following this, the Planning Inspectorate will carry out a formal six-month examination before making a recommendation to the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero.
Source: National Grid
