National Grid seeks views on proposed changes to Grimsby to Walpole project near Wisbech

National Grid is inviting local people to comment on a new power supply connection and road improvements needed for the proposed Walpole B substation, part of the Grimsby to Walpole project.

Grimsby to Walpole is a proposed 140km overhead electricity connection between northeast Lincolnshire and north Norfolk, including six new substations. It forms part of The Great Grid Upgrade, the largest overhaul of the grid in generations, which will help connect homes, businesses and public services to secure, home-grown British energy.

Following route-wide and targeted public consultations in 2025, National Grid has continued to refine its proposals. This targeted consultation focuses on a new power supply connection to the proposed Walpole B substation and road improvements on School Road and Salts Road, between Walton Highway and West Walton.

The proposed power supply connection would involve around 5.5km of 11kV underground cable linking UK Power Networks’ existing Walsoken substation with the proposed Walpole B substation. It would power the substation and temporary construction compound, rather than replace any part of the proposed 400kV Grimsby to Walpole overhead line.

National Grid’s high-voltage network carries electricity over long distances, while UK Power Networks’ local network delivers it to homes and businesses.

Most of the cable would be installed within existing roads or highway verges, with temporary access or additional land needed in some locations during construction. A temporary construction compound is also proposed to the north-east of Wisbech.

The proposed road improvements on School Road and Salts Road, between Walton Highway and West Walton, include localised road widening, new passing places and temporary traffic management during construction.

These improvements would allow construction vehicles to use the route safely, while helping to maintain access for residents, businesses, farms, school transport and emergency services. After construction, the roads would provide permanent access to maintain the drainage basin, which would help manage rainwater runoff from the proposed substation.

Ben Ridgeon, Project Director for Grimsby to Walpole, said: “Local people know their area best. We encourage everyone, particularly those who have received an information letter, to share their views on these proposed changes. Their local knowledge could help inform the final design.”

 Local people are encouraged to review the proposals and provide feedback during the consultation. Further information, including details of how to respond, is available at nationalgrid.com/g-w. People can also email [email protected] or call the community relations team on 0808 258 4395 from Monday to Friday, 9am–5:30pm.

National Grid plans to submit its application for a Development Consent Order for Grimsby to Walpole to the Planning Inspectorate in summer 2027.