Scottish Borders residents oppose plans for cross-border giant pylons

Residents from across the Scottish Borders are opposing proposals for large pylons intended to transmit wind farm electricity to England. Scottish Power Energy Networks (SPEN) aims to link a proposed electricity substation close to Lauder with existing overhead power lines near Carlisle, employing steel towers measuring 60 meters (197 feet) in height. Inhabitants of rural regions situated along the 50-mile path have expressed apprehension regarding the pylons’ effects and are advocating for a thorough reconsideration of the plans. A spokesperson for SPEN stated: “After much research, a preferred route has been identified that balances providing a cost efficient, robust and reliable electricity network, needed by everyone, with landscape, wildlife, visual and community considerations.” This Cross Border Connection represents one of multiple proposed links designed to transport renewable energy between Scotland and England, forming part of a £58 billion national grid modernization project. Although subsea connections, which carry offshore energy southward, have encountered minimal opposition, the overhead line proposals traversing the Borders region are facing increasing dissent. Approximately twelve small community protest organizations have emerged to oppose the planned pylons. Edward Kello, a resident of Lauder, commented: “I feel very strongly about the climate crisis and the need for renewable energy, but this is such a crude way of sending energy to the south.” Rosi Lister, an author and film-maker, along with her partner Anthony James, has dedicated the last 18 months to renovating a secluded farmhouse situated near Hawick. Should SPEN’s proposals be implemented, their residence would be in close proximity to both the overhead power line and a new Teviot electricity substation. Mr. James stated: “They talk about community benefits but the only benefit I can see is to move back to England and take advantage of the electricity coming down the line.” Ms. Lister further remarked: “We just found out about this three weeks ago and we are absolutely horrified.” She continued: “We moved here because of the views, but there’s pylons, the sub station and a wind farm on the way.” In addition to traversing the Teviot Valley, the dual 400kV overhead power line is projected to pass through the Tweed, Yarrow, Ettrick, and Liddel valleys. Douglas Walker, an Ettrickbridge resident, expressed skepticism regarding the necessity of the steel towers. He commented: “This has nothing to do with Scotland meting its net zero targets, it’s all about taking energy to England.” Walker added: “The Yarrow and Ettrick valleys are some of the most unspoilt areas in the country – we are all very concerned about these proposals.” The Cross Border Connection is intended to connect an overland backbone that will transport onshore renewable energy from Aberdeenshire, Tayside, Perthshire, and the central belt to existing power lines in Cumbria. Furthermore, new substations are slated for construction near Livingston, Lauder, and Hawick to facilitate the integration of wind farm energy into the modernized grid system. SPEN asserts that although renewable energy will be directed southward, nuclear and hydroelectric power will be transmitted northward as required. A spokesperson stated: “The Cross Border Connection is vital to strengthen the UK’s electricity system.” On Saturday, John Lamont, the Member of Parliament for Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Berwickshire, presided over a meeting where protesters could articulate their concerns to SPEN managers. Mr. Lamont holds the view that alternative solutions ought to be explored. He commented: “It’s very clear that there are huge concerns about these giant pylons.” He added: “We are now demonstrating to SPEN and the Scottish government how strongly people in the Borders feel about these proposals.” Lamont further stated: “They need to investigate underground options rather than having these big pylons crossing some of the most historical and beautiful parts of the UK.” In response to these concerns, SPEN has prolonged the ongoing consultation period until the conclusion of November. SPEN managers plan to review the feedback received and commission an Environmental Impact Assessment next year, prior to releasing their definitive route proposals in 2026. Should planning consent be granted by Scottish ministers, construction on the Cross Borders Connection is anticipated to commence in 2029.