Four broad route corridor options for the new line between Bramford and Twinstead have been identified by National Grid, taking into account our statutory duties.

Our proposals for the new overhead line are still in their early stages. The map below shows the broad route corridor options along with brief descriptions. 

The corridors shown below are stretches of land in which a new overhead power line could be located, and therefore they are often much wider than the actual amount of land needed for a new overhead line.

Depending on which route the new line takes, it could range from 26km (16 miles) in length on the shortest  route to 30km (18 miles) on the longest route.

The pylons would be of a standard design and height for this type of line, approximately 46.5 metres tall, although the exact height of each pylon may vary depending on the local landscape.

For more information on how National Grid arrived at these four route corridor options, please see the frequently asked questions.

Corridor 1

Option 1 would be to build a new overhead line running south-west from Bramford, largely in parallel to an existing 400,000 volt National Grid electricity transmission line and a 132,000 volt electricity distribution line owned by the distribution network operator EDF Energy Networks.

Corridor 2

Option 2 would be to take down the existing 132,000 volt distribution line and build the new 400,000 volt National Grid transmission line in its place. This would run largely in line with National Grid's existing 400, 000 volt overhead line to Twinstead.

Under option 2, to secure supplies for local electricity customers, replacement infrastructure will be required. National Grid is working with EDF Energy Networks to develop a solution.

If route corridor option 2 is chosen, work to date indicates that a new electricity substation would be needed in the vicinity of the overhead line, between a point west of the power junction at Twinstead Tee and a point east of Castle Hedingham. Our substation siting studies have identified three areas where it may be possible to site a substation. A more detailed study is also available. If route corridor 2 is chosen we will carry out more detailed assessments and residents will be fully consulted about the potential substation locations.

Corridor 3

Option 3 would be to route the new 400,000 volt overhead line north of Hadleigh and Boxford before continuing south-west towards Twinstead.

Corridor 4