National Grid has today announced that the proposed upgrade to the network between Bramford and Twinstead is now needed much later than originally planned following updated information from the electricity generating companies who are planning to build new power stations and off-shore wind turbines in the eastern region.

It is now envisaged that a connection will not be required until the early 2020s rather than 2017 as originally planned.  National Grid’s assessment confirms however that an upgrade will still be needed to connect new the sources of power but not at this time.  The project has therefore been placed on hold for the time being.

The company had been planning to undertaken further consultation on the project early next year before making an application to the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change.  This will now take place at a much later date.

National Grid has produced a report – the Bramford-Twinstead Need case 2013 – which explains the changes to the proposed power generation projects.  This will shortly be available at:  www.nationalgrid.com/bramford-twinstead

National Grid is proposing to hold a briefing session with County and District Councillors on 28 November and will be explaining the implications at the forthcoming Community Forums which are detailed below and at which you are welcome to attend.  Further information about the briefing will be circulated when the time and venue is confirmed.