SP Energy Networks are hosting a series of consultation events in the Scottish Borders that will be engaging local people for their views on plans for vital new electricity infrastructure called the Cross Border Connection.
The Cross Border Connection is a joint development between SP Transmission and National Grid Electricity Transmission (NGET). SP Energy Networks is developing and will construct the section of the connection in Scotland, the SP Energy Networks Project, while NGET is delivering the connection in England, the NGET Project. The two parties are working closely on the project.
The Cross Border Connection in Scotland consists of a proposed overhead line which would be between 75km and 85km, running from the proposed Gala North Substation to a point at the Scotland-England border, south of Newcastleton. The line would connect to the new proposed Teviot Substation, which would potentially be located close to Whitrope. The proposed overhead line would use a 400kV double circuit line supported by steel lattice towers.
NGET’s proposals for the Cross Border Connection in England are in a very early stage of development. In 2025, NGET plans to hold its first stage of consultation, known as a non-statutory consultation, at which point they will present their early proposals, including proposed technology and routeing/siting aspects in England.
Although SP Energy Networks is consulting on a preferred route before NGET, the Scottish section of the Project will be subject to alignment with the section in England before detailed design.
SP Energy Networks plan two rounds of public consultation with the first round taking place between 23rd September to 28th October 2024. You can find out more and speak with the project team at the following drop-in events:
- Tuesday 24th September - Traquair Village Hall (10am-1pm) ; Walkerburn Village Hall (3-7pm)
- Wednesday 25th September - Newcastleton Village Hall (3-7pm)
- Thursday 26th September - Hermitage Village Hall (10am-1pm)
- Monday 30th September - Lauder Public Hall (10am-1pm) ; Stow Town Hall (3-7pm)
- Tuesday 1st October - Teviothead Village Hall (10am-1pm) ; Forman Memorial Hall (3-7pm)
- Thursday 3rd October - Kirkhope Parish Hall (10am-1pm) ; Yarrow Hall (3-7pm)
- Monday 7th October - Hawick Town Hall (10am-1pm) ; Caddonfoot Village Hall (3-7pm)
An online virtual public consultation is also available via our dedicated website. SP Energy Networks is also sending information leaflets to local homes and businesses, and more information is also available on the project website.