Investing in communities
In 2025, the Government published new guidance that sets out how projects like ours can deliver a lasting positive legacy through community benefit funding.
This guidance could unlock millions of pounds of funding to benefit local communities and the wider area, including £200,000 of funding for every kilometre of new overhead line built.
Any funding would be available after the project is granted development consent and construction work has started. If planning approval is granted, our work on the project means we will deliver a Community Fund of around £18 million.
What’s been happening so far?
Earlier this year, we invited you to share your views on how a Community Fund could be delivered if the project is approved. We received responses from local residents, parish councils and other stakeholders. Overall, your feedback highlighted a strong preference for practical improvements that deliver everyday benefits.
The most frequently supported suggestions were:
- investing in community infrastructure and facilities, such as village halls and shared spaces
- supporting health and wellbeing initiatives
- delivering environmental enhancements
- helping with energy efficiency and fuel poverty.
Thank you to everyone who took the time to respond. Your feedback will help shape how a Community Fund would be delivered, should the project receive planning consent.
You can learn more by watching our Community Fund update video or by reading our factsheet.
What's happening with electricity bill discounts?
Separate to the community benefit guidance, the Government has announced plans for an electricity bill discount scheme for nearby households. This could include bill discounts of up to £2,500 over 10 years for those living within 500 metres of our project. The mechanism for delivering this funding has been secured as part of the recent Planning and Infrastructure Act. We will share further details as they emerge.