National Grid submits pylons proposal amid ongoing local concerns

A PROPOSAL to install over 100 miles of pylons between Norwich and Tilbury by National Grid has been submitted to Government.

Essex County Council, along with Suffolk County Council, Norfolk County Council and city, borough and district councils, have always maintained concerns around elements of the proposals put forward. Councils will now begin to review the submitted detail of the application.

Councillor Louise McKinlay, Deputy Leader for Essex County Council, said: “We have continually urged National Grid to consider offshore energy, which would reduce the impact on local Essex communities and the environment, but they fail to listen.

“The proposals for huge pylons and onshore renewables will lead to the loss of valuable farmland necessary to grow food. It could also impact on the delivery of new homes and local facilities for existing residents and communities.”

Responses to the consultations during the pre-application period have attempted to influence the final scheme. There will be a series of opportunities for Essex County Council and others to submit responses and further evidence. Residents, community groups and district councils can also register their views while the Planning Inspectorate considers the application.

It is expected a final decision will be made by the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government in late 2026.

Councillor McKinlay added: “The impact of the proposals on Essex families and businesses will be huge. I have serious doubts about the robustness of National Grid’s plans. In particular, I’m concerned about the impact on highways, where a huge amount of infrastructure and materials are going to be brought into the county with little thought around how our roads will manage and the delays these works will cause.

“I urge community groups, residents, businesses and district councils to all consider National Grid’s proposal carefully and use the opportunity to highlight the detrimental impact the scheme will have on our county.”

The full planning application and details of how it will be considered by the Planning Inspectorate will be available at https://national-infrastructure-consenting.planninginspectorate.gov.uk/projects/EN020027