Norwich to Tilbury pylon plan could spawn ‘legacy of degradation’, say MPs
Opponents to contentious pylon proposals are continuing their plea for alternatives to be explored – arguing that the current plan will leave “a legacy of visual and environmental degradation”.
Eight Members of Parliament in East Anglia have written to the Energy Secretary, Ed Miliband, to express their concerns about National Grid’s proposed pylon line for the region.
Their letter claims that a presumption in favour of pylons was followed “rigidly and blindly”, without proper scrutiny, or consideration for other options.
The pylon scheme is planned between Norwich and Tilbury, via the Norfolk and Suffolk countryside, to improve transmission capacity for energy generated offshore.
National Grid has maintained that it considered offshore and underground alternatives, and concluded these would be more expensive.
However, the group of Conservative MPs, which includes Patrick Spencer, MP for Central Suffolk and North Ipswich, argue that there is “technical evidence and overwhelming local support for an alternative to pylons”.
They cite the East Anglia Network Study, published by the National Energy System Operator (Neso) in March 2024, which they say shows that an underground HVDC system – high-voltage cables capable of carrying power over long distances – would be more cost-effective.
“We recognise the mounting pressure to expand grid capacity,” the letter reads.
“However, the current extensive pylon network proposed for this route is flawed.
“It would lock us into a legacy of visual and environmental degradation, damaging house prices and disrupting farms, businesses and community spaces, when there are alternative, cost-comparable options available.”
The letter also criticises the Government’s recent offer of £250 off annual energy bills for homeowners living near the pylon line as “a blatant bribe, intended to buy their silence and agreement”.
It further bemoans the significant investment into offshore infrastructure in other parts of the country, something that has not been reciprocated in East Anglia.
National Grid has insisted that it held a consultation in January after reviewing feedback from previous engagement exercises.
“This helped us to identify locations where further changes could potentially be made,” said a National Grid spokesman. “Their input will help to shape the proposals we submit for development consent.
“We limit environmental effects as much as possible, and Ofgem will assess our proposals to ensure they provide value for all bill payers.
“We have considered offshore and underground alternatives, and they are significantly more expensive.”
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