Plans submitted for new Holbeach substation
Plans have been submitted to build a new substation for a town that is growing beyond the means of the current electricity network.
National Grid says that the current distribution network around Holbeach is not sufficient for the town’s future and has applied to build a new substation in Branches Lane.
The firm has submitted plans to South Holland District Council to build two transformers, one switchboard, an 11kV switchroom building and associated hardstanding.
Documents submitted with the application states: “South Holland District Council has set ambitious targets for housing and employment in Holbeach to foster its growth and development.
“With numerous new commercial enterprises and housing projects planned within the current local plan period, the existing electricity distribution network is insufficient to support the anticipated load growth.
“NGED is therefore taking a proactive approach to ensure the long-term resilience and flexibility of the electricity distribution network in this area, while maintaining compliance with the Energy Networks Association’s P2/7 network regulations and regulatory compliance.”
Holbeach is set to grow substantially in the coming years with 900 homes planned on the Holbeach Meadows development along with the construction of the Food Enterprise Zone - which brings together academics and businesses on a science park estate on the edge of town.
We reported in January 2023, that National Grid was looking to build a new substation in the town to help ‘future proof’ it’s network.
The planning statement, which was submitted with the application, states that the land in Branches Lane is currently being used for potato farming and will need a change of use application.
It goes onto state: “It is not possible to expand the existing electricity substation site at Holbeach, therefore this planning application seeks to secure land in a sustainable location to house essential infrastructure equipment to future proof the wider distribution network.”
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If approved, the new building will measure 24.14m x 6.75m x 6.7m. It will also have a pitched roof and surrounding by 2.4m palisade fencing along with a rain garden and swale.
The application said: “Currently, there is no vehicular access to the substation site. A new access point is proposed to the west off Branches Lane as part of the planning application. This new access will be used by all vehicles during both the construction and operational phases of the substation.”
The application also states that if approved construction work could start in August and could last 18 to 24 months.
It adds: “In alignment with the main visions and objectives of the Local Plan, the proposed development will facilitate the expansion of the electricity network in this area. This supports planned growth for residential properties and businesses while promoting low carbon and renewable development. The sustainable location, along with proposed screening and considerate design, will preserve the local landscape and respect both its natural and built environment.”
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