The work is part of our wider investment programme to upgrade our existing electricity transmission network in East Anglia. This refurbishment will help to deliver cleaner, greener electricity efficiently, reliably, and safely and will support the UK Government’s move to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.

Project description

The overhead line was originally constructed in 1968. It is nearly 62 kilometres in length and is made up of 198 pylons.

The two year refurbishment programme involves replacing all the fittings and wires on the existing pylons along the length of the route and making some changes to the existing network at Yaxley to replace a pylon and connect the overhead line into the new substation at Yaxley. 

The refurbishment is being done in two phases. The first phase was carried out during 2022. The second phase, including reinstatement will be carried out between late May and December 2023.

How will these works affect local communities?

Our principal contractor, Balfour Beatty, is carrying out this work. Our working hours are between 7:30am to 6pm Monday to Sunday.

You may see some activity on or near the overhead lines and pylons. We are working closely with Balfour Beatty to reduce disruption to local communities, and we have a dedicated community relations team on hand to answer any questions.

The overhead line is mainly routed across fields and countryside. Where some pylons are closer to individual properties, we will contact those residents in advance.

The refurbishment work will not disrupt local electricity supplies.  

National Grid Community Grant Programme

Our Community Grant Programme is aimed at organisations and charities in areas where National Grid’s work impacts on local people through our operations and site activities.

We fund projects run by charities and community groups that meet local community needs by providing a range of social, economic and environmental benefits. If your project meets our criteria, you can apply for a grant of up to £10,000.