The overhead lines running between Littlebrook and Kemsley have been operational since 1962. National Grid have identified the route as needing new wires and refurbishment. We are aiming to ensure our infrastructure remains reliable for future generations. This maintenance work is essential to safeguard a reliable power supply to businesses and residents in the Kent area for years to come.
The overhead lines cover 40km in length and cross through six local Council areas across Kent, Dartford, Gravesham, Medway, Tonbridge & Malling, Maidstone and Swale. The line crosses the Channel Tunnel Rail Link, QE2 Bridge and the M2. The line also crosses the River Medway, A296, B255 and A2 near Bluewater Shopping Centre, as well as crossing through four densely populated residential areas.
This multi-million-pound investment will involve the replacement and refurbishment of lines along the route ensuring that the local electricity supply is suitable for generations to come.
The project has been planned over many months and in February 2019, on site preparations will begin. These preparations will include clearing any necessary vegetation along the route and preparing access points for our workers and equipment to reach the pylons. It is likely you will begin to see our workers along the length of the route from February 2019.
Our programme work will be completed in sections over two phases, the first during 2019 and the second in 2020 when we aim to have the works completed. The replacement and maintenance work will have no impact on power supplies in the area.
The main replacement and refurbishing work of the overhead lines is due to take place between June and November 2019. Some work will continue into 2020 with the last of the works due to be completed by the end of 2020.
The majority of our work will be carried out between 7.30am – 19.00pm up to seven days a week. However, there are exceptional circumstances where working outside of these will be necessary. This will include the period June – November 2019 and March – October 2020.
Our aim is that this work will cause as little affect to your daily life as possible. Depending on where you live and work, the effects will differ. However, many of the pylons and lines we need to access are in relatively remote locations and therefore, potential access difficulties are expected but should be minimal. Some areas of work are within residential or industrial areas and we will be in close contact with those residents and businesses who will be potentially affected. We will attempt to answer their concerns and can take into account any issues they may have, to see if these can be addressed before the work takes place.
National Grid and their contractors have worked closely with the statutory authorities and councils. This is to ensure transport and other access issues are managed and coordinated locally to minimise disruption to the community whilst we complete these essential works.
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. To find out more click here.