Undergrounding

The Wye Valley AONB continues to benefit from the permanent undergrounding of some of its overhead powerline network.  As part of its section 85 Duty of Regard to the AONB OFGEM, the official regulator for the gas and electricity  industry, provided a framework for allowing power distribution companies the discretionary option to underground overhead power lines. 

Central Networks (responsible for approximatley 60% of power lines in the AONB) adopted the scheme in 2005 and have worked with AONB partners across the West Midlands to progress schemes.  Western Power (responsible for the remaining 40%) initially opted out of the initiative but since 2010 have been working closely with AONBs and National Parks across South Wales on undergrounding projects.

Currently there have been three sections of overhead line placed underground including:

• Goodrich Greenspace - (Central Networks region 2007).   This was a line that ran through the heart of Goodrich Village and over an area of srub and grassland that the lcoal community wanted to convert to a community greenspace and play area.  Planning permission for the greenspace was denied due to the hazard presented by the overhead powerlines.  The undergrounding scheme allowed planning permission to be granted and the greenspace to be created. 
• Kerne Bridge (Central Networks region 2009) .  A stretch of line was put underground on an area of floodplain near the Scheduled Ancient Monument of Kerne Bridge.  The open landscape was transformed when the powerlines were removed, improving views of Goodrcih Castle and views from the nearby Wye Valley Walk. 
• St Briavels (Central Networks region 2011). The most recent scheme to be undergrounded, this particular stretch of line was situated high on the Forest of Dean plateau and blighted the impressive views across the valley from the village of St Briavels and from Public Rights of way.

New schemes are always being proposed and four are currently in progression.  We would like to thank the co-operation and support of both Central Networks and Western Power Distributors for their ongoing engagement with the scheme.

For further information please contact Andrew Nixon email development@wyevalleyaonb.org.uk