The way we generate electricity in the UK is changing rapidly, and we are transitioning to cheaper, cleaner and more secure forms of energy like new offshore windfarms. We need to make changes to the network of overhead lines, pylons, cables and other infrastructure that transports electricity around the country, so that everyone has access to cleaner electricity from these new renewable sources.
In July 2023, we consulted on our proposals for works in the Cottingham area, north of Hull. Since then, we've worked to refine our plans in response to the feedback we've received.
We submitted two applications to East Riding of Yorkshire Council, for:
- Wanlass Beck Substation (formerly referred to as Creyke Beck 400kV extension) – granted 22 December 2025
- a new substation 700m to the north, called Birkhill Wood Substation – pending determination.
Our proposals are part of The Great Grid Upgrade – the largest overhaul of the grid in generations. Please use the tabs at the top of this page to find out more about each project.
It is now proposed to construct the Birkhill Wood Substation and the access road as Phase 1 of the works. The Wanlass Beck Substation will follow in Phase 2.
Biodiversity Net Gain
We are committed as an organisation to providing a minimum of 10% biodiversity net gain across all our new build infrastructure projects. This will help to increase biodiversity in the surrounding land, such as flora, fauna and wildlife habitat.
Construction Access
We are proposing a construction road directly off the A1079 serving both the existing and new substation. This should avoid the need for construction and operational traffic using Park Lane.
Park Lane, which is also part of National Cycle Route 1, will need to be partially diverted to accommodate the new substation. When we construct the new section we will seek to build it to the same or better standard than the existing. We plan to do this before starting work on the substation extension. To improve the junction from the new access road to the A1079, we have applied to the local authority to divert a small section of Bridleway Rowley 13.
Consultation materials
You can view all of our past consultation documents and materials below.
Creyke Beck extension and new substation - Consultation leaflet
Creyke Beck extension and new substation - Exhibition banners