With over 25 years of experience supporting farmers with infrastructure issues, helping fully explain the process, rights and obligations, and the potential impact on your business, we know how protracted and complex projects can be.
The focus of infrastructure work is now turning to delivery, and as a result, we have seen a surge in enquiries, and have expanded our team, engaging on projects right across the country and across the border in England.
Maintenance and refurbishment of existing transmission pylons require surveys of the concrete foundations, painting pylon towers, reinforcement of apparatus, replacing spacers, insulation, and some wiring work. The impact on landowners and land managers varies from farm to farm and disruption can last from a single day to an extended period where new roads require to be installed. In addition to this work, new infrastructure routes are in planning which have created a sense of urgency to deliver net zero by 2030.
D&R has been supporting clients affected by such projects for decades, We advise getting your Agent involved from the outset, and do not sign anything until you have taken advice. Your reasonable professional costs for facilitating access and creating and negotiating claims on your behalf are likely to be reimbursable by the utility company.
The earlier you speak up, the more likely changes can be considered. Request drawings and access routes, and consider the practical aspects of the farm, as well as potential impacts on your business. Experienced Land Agents know how to check draft agreements, conditions, compensation and how a project is going to impact you – they will also look at things you may not have considered. Monitoring during construction may seem a long way off, but setting up a comprehensive Schedule of Accommodation Works (commitment register) at the start will make claims easier in the future and help mitigate losses.
If you are faced with potential infrastructure issues, NFUS Members can access the free Utilities Helpline on 0131 609 9717 or email nfusutilities@drrrual.co.uk. Non members wanting an initial conversation on any of these projects, can contact Edinburgh Office team on 0131 449 6212, or the Cumbria team on 01900 268 633.
Kintore – Tealing new 400kV line
Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) entered a Section 37 planning application on 19th September, and on 23rd September, the 21 day notice of intention letters were issued, giving SSEN the ability to start a Necessary Wayleave process (compulsory powers).
This ‘twin track’ process allows for the voluntary agreement process to continue with affected land owners, but at the same time, the planning and consent process begins, which is needed for any ‘Necessary Wayleave’ compulsory powers. It is designed to keep the process on a timeline for delivery but caused concern for those affected.
Alongside NFUS, we held an online seminar to support those affected. Topics covered include the statutory process, options for engagement, key issues to watch out for (such as access, biosecurity, line heights), and timelines.
Pylon refurbishment Strathaven – Wishaw – Dalkeith
At least 60 farms will be impacted by this project which involves upgrading over 200 towers. We are working with numerous clients with a huge variation of effect to farms, from limited vehicular access to installing temporary stone haul roads where more intrusive and repetitive access is required. Surveys are happening now with upgrades to foundations planned for December ahead of work commencing in March.
Galashiels – Eccles Pylon replacement
This 5 year project involves installing a new 30km 132kV line will before removing the two aging existing lines ( the AT and U routes). SP Energy Networks (SPEN) will install new overhead lines before removing the old ones. They will be submitting their Section 37 for consent in January and will carry out the application consultation period from spring 2026. Anyone who may be affected should already have been contacted, and if so, we urge you to contact your Land Agent for representation as soon as possible.
