Cotswolds Visual Impact Provision

The Cotswolds National Landscape is the largest of the 38 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in England and Wales. The section of National Grid transmission line planned for removal is around 7km long and runs parallel to the Cotswold Way National Trail for much of its length, with many regional trails also crossing the area. The proposal is for up to 20 pylons to be permanently removed from the landscape along the line which runs from Postlip Mill in the north to the edge of the Cotswold Plateau to the north of Dowdeswell reservoir.

The planned route for the new cables runs over the Cotswold Plateau north to Postlip Mill. This will closely follow the Cotswold Way National Trail. 

It is suggested this project is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform the skyline and conserve and enhance the precious Cotswold landscape.

The project is currently at its initial stages of route feasibility, non-intrusive walkover surveys and undertaking third-party consultation. National Grid has identified all parties it believes may be affected by the project based on Land Registry Data and is seeking to identify parties whose land interests are unregistered. If National grid has made contact to inform you that you are considered as a potentially affected party at this stage, you should have received a:

• project letter 
• Survey Access Licence 
• landowner questionnaire 
• National Grid payment schedules and survey factsheet

National Grid states the project would primarily run through agricultural land and will not be routed through private gardens. Some surveys may be required in areas beyond the route corridor (once it is determined) for the purpose of gaining a greater understanding of local habitats and how they might be impacted by the project. There is no intention to carry out surveys in private houses or gardens; these surveys are primarily in agricultural land and National Grid states it will always work with landowners to seek voluntary access for surveys.

As part of the wider project commitments, it will also be working to deliver initiatives to enhance biodiversity and welcome feedback from landowners and occupiers.

If you own or occupy land which you feel may be affected by the proposals and would like to talk to National Grid land agents, Dalcour Maclaren, please contact them at cotswoldsvip@dalcourmaclaren.com or on 01285 425 362.