Electricity pylon felling paves way for energisation of the Hinkley Connection Project
Pylon removal marks key milestone in delivering new high-voltage connection.
The Hinkley Connection Project has achieved a significant milestone with the safe removal of a temporary pylon at the midpoint of the new overhead line route in Somerset.
Installed in May 2023, the structure was erected to support the energisation of the southern part of the route between Sandford and Bridgwater. Working in collaboration with construction company, Balfour Beatty, the project team completed the removal with precision, disconnecting wires, cutting the tower legs, and using a winch mounted to a tractor to safely bring down the structure. As with all parts of the project, careful planning, respect for the local environment and the community played a key role in ensuring complete success.
The next phase of works following the careful dismantling of the temporary pylon will involve installing wires from the new permanent pylon into Sandford substation - paving the way for energising the northern part of the overhead line route from Sandford to Avonmouth.
Alex Kraitman, Project Manager at National Grid, said:
This is a landmark achievement in our journey to deliver the Hinkley Connection Project. It’s a testament to the skill and dedication of our teams, who are working safely and efficiently to build the infrastructure needed to power a low-carbon future. This connection will be vital in strengthening the South West’s electricity transmission network, while helping to deliver clean energy across the UK for generations to come.
Spanning 57 kilometres between Bridgwater and Seabank, the new high-voltage Hinkley Connection will connect six million homes and businesses to low-carbon energy. It comprises overhead electricity lines featuring innovative T-pylons, along with 8.5 kilometres of underground cables beneath the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
To keep up with the latest project news, find out what’s happening in your area, or explore how our Community Grant Programme is supporting local communities, please visit our website.
