Lapford to Witheridge Reinforcement Project

What is the project?

We're proposing improvements to the electricity network between Lapford and Witheridge to give local communities a more secure and reliable electricity supply.

The project proposes a new 33kV circuit between Lapford and Witheridge. It will also include a second transformer at Witheridge substation.

Together, these improvements will strengthen the wider local network, making it more resilient and giving us more flexibility when working on other parts of the system.

Why is the project happening?

The network serving Witheridge currently relies on a single transformer and 33kV supply route. The existing network continues to operate safely, but gives us fewer options if works are required, or a fault occurs. This means that if it needs maintenance, or something goes wrong, there's no back-up route to keep the power flowing.

A second source of supply and an additional transformer would:

Deliver a stronger, more resilient network in the area for thousands of customers
Increase capacity, helping local homes and businesses adopt low carbon technologies like EVs and heat pumps in the future
Provide an alternative supply route if one circuit is out of service

Benefits for local people

This project is designed to deliver long-term benefits for the area, including:

A more resilient electricity supply: Adding a second transformer and circuit will reduce the risk of disruption by giving us alternative ways to maintain power supplies when parts of the network are unavailable.
Capacity for future growth: The upgraded network will support new homes, businesses and local services, helping provide the network needed in future.
Investment in local infrastructure: The works represent an investment in the electricity infrastructure serving the area and will help keep the network fit for purpose for years to come.
Support for low‑carbon technologies: The project will play a role in allowing customers to switch to technologies such as:

Electric vehicles and associated charging
Heat pumps and low carbon heat technologies
Local renewable generation

View project map

Working with landowners

We understand that proposed electricity infrastructure can affect how land is used and managed.

If a potential route crosses or is near your land, we will have been in contact with you directly. We'll work with you to understand local circumstances, answer questions and discuss any concerns.

Landowners will have opportunities to give feedback throughout the planning process, and we'll provide clear information about access, compensation and ongoing arrangements where relevant.

Timeline

Current stage: Design and engagement, including engagement with local landowners to obtain consent to cross land ongoing through to April 2028
Construction: Subject to planning approval and the necessary consents, we expect construction to begin from June 2028
Completion: We're currently planning to complete the overall reinforcement project in September 2029. If the project goes ahead, you may see some construction activity along the route and at Witheridge substation. We'll work to reduce disruption where possible and keep communities informed throughout.

Find out more

We're committed to working openly with local communities, landowners and stakeholders as the project develops.

Information about engagement events, project updates and opportunities to give feedback will be published on this page as they become available.

You're also welcome to get in touch with us on 0800 096 3080, or via our general enquiry contact form online, if you'd like further information about the works.

FAQs

Why is the project happening here?

Right now, Witheridge is supplied by one transformer and one 33kV line from Lapford. If either needs maintenance, or something goes wrong, there's no back-up route to keep the power flowing.

We're also seeing more extreme weather, and this can put extra pressure on a network with no back-up option. Adding a second line between Lapford and Witheridge, plus a second transformer at Witheridge substation, gives the network a back-up supply. That means homes, farms, businesses and community facilities are less likely to lose power if one part of the network needs attention or is affected by severe weather.

It will also create extra capacity for the future, supporting local growth and things like electric vehicles, heat pumps and local renewable generation.

We know new infrastructure can raise questions, so we're talking to landowners, communities and stakeholders as the plans develop. Local feedback will help shape the project alongside the technical and environmental work.

What are the health impacts of electricity infrastructure like wooden pole lines?

All electrical equipment, including overhead lines, substations and even the wiring in your home, produces electric and magnetic fields (EMFs).

We know some people worry about whether EMFs can affect health. We take this seriously. Our equipment is designed, built and operated to meet UK Government policy and independently set safety guidelines, and it operates well within those limits.

As such, we'll design and assess this project to make sure it meets the required safety limits. You can read more in our EMF information document here

What will it look like?

We're still working on the detailed design. Right now, we're talking to landowners to understand how the land is used, spot any local constraints and look at how the route can be designed to keep impacts to a minimum.

The project is likely to include a new 33kV circuit between Lapford and Witheridge, along with work at Witheridge substation. Where the wooden poles go, and what access will be needed, will depend on technical, environmental and landowner considerations.

We'll keep talking to landowners and communities as the design develops, and will share more detail on the route once it's further along. There will be more chances to ask questions and give feedback before anything is finalised.

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Lapford to Witheridge Reinforcement Project

What is the project?

Why is the project happening?

Benefits for local people

Working with landowners

Timeline

Find out more

FAQs

Contact us

0800 6783 105

0800 096 3080