Our response to National Grid's proposal to build a new transmission line from Grimsby to Walpole
- Published:
- 07 March 2024
The National Grid is proposing to build a new high-voltage electricity transmission line between Grimsby and Walpole. Areas of land and property cared for by the National Trust in Lincolnshire, including Tattershall Castle, Gunby Estate and Sandilands, are located on either side of the proposed route. As part of the consultation process, we've shared our concerns about the visual and ecological impacts on people, nature and wildlife.
Important habitat for birds
The east coast is an important habitat for over 155 birds species, including ring ouzel, whinchat, black redstart and swallows.
A vital resting and re-fuelling point for hundreds of thousands of birds during their migration each year, this area of coastline has become the largest feeding ground for wetland birds in the country.
Whilst the proposed route doesn't pass directly through this sensitive habitat, we do have some concerns about the proximity of the new transmission line and its impact on the wildlife that live, feed and breed here.
Visual impact
We were pleased to see that the proposed route avoids directly passing through the Lincolnshire Wolds National Landscape. However, due to the flat landscape, we believe the pylons will be visible from certain areas of Gunby Estate and Sandilands. To minimise the visual impact, we've asked National Grid to consider placing some cables underground during their consultation process.
Next steps
We understand the need for a reliable and secure energy network that supports the UK’s net zero emissions target. Taking this into account, we have shared our concerns as part of the consultation process to ensure that careful consideration is given to nature and the environment as National Grid progress with their plans.
We know that nature is already close to breaking point, and we should be doing all that we can to protect it. As a conservation charity, it's our priority to protect historically important and environmentally sensitive places in our care, and as such, we will review the proposal as it develops.
