National Grid builds Little Horsted substation
New substations in Framfield will strengthen South East electricity supply while delivering biodiversity measures to support protected species.
Image for illustrative purposes
UK, England, Framfield: National Grid is constructing a major substation site in Framfield, East Sussex, to strengthen the South East’s power grid. The Little Horsted development will house two substations – one for National Grid and one for UK Power Networks – providing new connections and securing supply for local homes and businesses.
The 10-ha (24-acre) site off Palehouse Common and Sand Hill Lane was purchased as part of the project. Extensive environmental measures have been implemented to align with National Grid’s Biodiversity Net Gain commitment. The land has been enhanced with planting and habitat creation to support great crested newts, reptiles, dormice, bats and badgers.
More than 20,000 native plants including oak, holly, black alder, blackthorn and hawthorn have been introduced. Wildflower meadows, under-storey clover mixes, and aquatic planting have been established to improve habitats for pollinators and amphibians. Habitat boxes for barn owls, woodpeckers, starlings and bats have been installed, alongside pond enhancements, refuge piles and hibernacula.
Deer fencing and tree guards protect the new planting, while weed control, watering and botanical surveys will ensure long-term establishment.
The substation is scheduled for completion in spring 2026 and forms part of National Grid’s $4.95 B (£3.66 B) investment in the South East network between 2026 and 2031.
“This project shows how energy infrastructure can deliver both network resilience and environmental enhancement,” said Paul Alchin, Project Manager at National Grid.
Source: T&D World
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