29. National Grid owns the land occupied by its substations, but only exceptionally does it own the land which is crossed by its electricity lines. The line is retained by means of either wayleave agreements or permanent easements with the landowner. National Grid has the power to maintain and renew the electricity line and to gain access for these purposes. Since it does not own the land, it cannot prevent development close to or under overhead lines (although, of course, safe electrical clearances must be maintained).
National Grid seeks voluntary agreements with landowners. However, when these are not forthcoming National Grid has compulsory powers and can apply to the Secretary of State for a ‘necessary wayleave’ for the overhead line route, or compulsory purchase of the land occupied by the cable route. In such cases a hearing will take place which provides the opportunity for all issues to be discussed.
30. It has sometimes been suggested that minimum distances between properties and overhead lines should be prescribed. National Grid does not consider this appropriate since each instance must be dealt with on its merits. However, it has always sought to route new lines away from residential property on grounds of general amenity. Since the only limitation on new development has been the statutory safety clearances (Appendix III), a large amount of residential and other development has been carried out subsequently beneath and adjacent to overhead lines.
31. Where development takes place and how it is designed are principally matters for the landowner, developer and the local planning authority to determine. National Grid should be consulted at an early stage on proposals for development near lines and substations, when it is more likely that National Grid’s advice and guidance on development near to electricity lines issues can be taken into account.
32. National Grid believes that the amenity considerations which are applied in routeing overhead lines and siting substations, should be considered in respect of development proposed in the vicinity of overhead lines and substations. Such amenity and other considerations are set out below in addition National Grid has published comprehensive site layout, design and landscaping guidelines to provide advice and pragmatic solutions for anyone involved in the planning, design and development of sites near high voltage overhead electricity lines.
Visit the Sense of Place website at: www.nationalgrid.com/uk/senseofplace