Tendring District Council (TDC) remains “strongly opposed” to proposed plans for new pylons between Norfolk and south Essex.

National Grid is holding a third statutory consultation into its proposals for a new 114-mile power line connection between Norwich and Tilbury to link up electricity infrastructure – including connections in Tendring.

TDC will not determine the proposal but is a statutory consultee with a right to make representations. The Government will have the final say on the plans.

The council’s Planning Policy and Local Plan Committee backed the authority’s response to the consultation at a meeting on Tuesday (July 23).

In its written response to the consultation, TDC said: “This council continues to object in the strongest of terms to the proposed Norwich to Tilbury powerline and connections to a main substation within the Tendring district.

“A significant number of residents from across Tendring have continued to contact the council to express their serious concerns regarding the impacts on the local communities, the landscape and the wider environment - particularly in Ardleigh, Lawford and Little Bromley.

“The council shares the concerns that have been raised and wants to ensure the matters raised are given serious consideration before any decision is taken with regards to the submission of a Development Consent Order application to the Secretary of State.

“It is the clear preference of this council, along with many others in the region, that the powerline can be delivered offshore through a seabed solution.

“The council like others is not satisfied that such an alternative has been given due and proper consideration in the planning process to date.”

The response adds that if permission is to be granted, the mitigation required to minimise the impact on the countryside and the transport network will need to be “substantial”.

Mark Stephenson, Leader of TDC, said: “The council’s strong opposition to the proposal reflects the same concerns raised by our residents.

“We have made it clear that we oppose the plans and believe that National Grid has not given due consideration to offshore options.

“Instead they are proposing to use old onshore technology, which will have a detrimental effect on our residents’ quality of life and the environment across the region.”

It is expected that the plans will be submitted next year and, if permission is granted by the Secretary of State, construction could begin in 2027.