Progress is continuing to draw up plans for an £18 million electricity reinforcement project in North Shropshire.

SP Energy Networks is planning to develop a new wooden pole overhead line between Oswestry and Wem.

Based on continuing discussions with landowners and local communities, further route options are now being considered in the Lower Hordley and Noneley areas.

In addition, the company has confirmed the location of the start of the overhead line near Round Wood and that they plan to use underground cables between that location and Oswestry substation. Initial designs have also been developed for Wem substation, with proposals including undergrounding a section of one of the two existing 33kV overhead lines that run into the substation from a southerly direction, in order to facilitate the work required at the substation.

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Discussions with landowners has led to possible construction access routes being identified to install the proposed overhead line. Indicative options for the two construction compounds required are being considered, which will be used to help minimise traffic movements in the area.

Other ongoing works include a wide range of surveys to consider the local environment, wildlife and habitats along the proposed route.

Mark Sobczak, Head of 132kV Programmes at SP Energy Networks, said: "Work continues to progress well and this autumn we'll hold a statutory consultation in recognition that the proposals have reached a detailed stage.

"We will provide people living near the proposed route with information on our work including where we're proposing to place the wooden poles and the areas we need for construction.

"We will also consult specialist bodies responsible for the environment, heritage, ecology and other important considerations. All of this work will help us to finalise our plans before we submit a formal planning application in 2018."

(LM/MH)