Little Horsted substation – construction summer update
Little Horsted substation – construction summer update
I would like to update you on the construction of our substation near Little Horsted.
As you may recall, we are building two electricity substations (one for National Grid and one for our customer, UK Power Networks which they will deliver) as well as constructing two new electricity pylons and dismantling an existing pylon. The development provides a new connection for UK Power Networks and will ensure a continued, safe and secure supply of electricity to local homes and businesses.
We’ve completed our groundworks activity, which involved removing around 65,000 cubic metres of topsoil and subsoil to level the site. It was transported for local use to resurface polo fields in Polegate and, the subsoil will be used in Horsham to cap and landscape a landfill.
Our next phase of work includes installing security fencing and pouring concrete to create a surface for the two supergrid transformers – transformers are a vital piece of equipment which reduce the voltage of electricity so it can be safely delivered to local homes and businesses. We also need to carry out other civils works including drainage and earthing works, laying substation foundations and constructing new access roads. We will bring in stone from a local quarry for these activities.
UK Power Networks’ contractor will start on site from mid-August to prepare for their substation build and to remove spoil. They will follow the same traffic management plan as our works.
Finally, some advance warning that we need to transport the two new supergrid transformers in a few months’ time from Shoreham Port to Little Horsted substation. The dates are not confirmed but likely to be at the end of September/beginning of October over consecutive weekends. We will be in touch nearer the time with further details.
We understand our work may impact the local community and we’re working hard to minimise disruption where we can. We’re regularly monitoring construction traffic, vehicle movements, noise, dust, vibration and light. Thank you for your patience and cooperation while we carry out this essential work.
If you have any queries, please contact our community relations team for free on 0800 073 1047 or via nationalgridteam@jbp.co.uk. They’re available Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm with an answering service in place outside of these times. You can also visit https://www.nationalgrid.com/electricitytransmission/network-and-infrastructure/little-horsted.