13km of power lines disappear from the Chilterns National Landscape in a major undergrounding project

The project was delivered by UK Power Networks and involved undergrounding the 11,000-volt lines between Latimer and Chenies, as part of the company’s commitment to remove power lines in National Landscapes for significant visual improvement.

Extensive environmental and archaeological surveys took place to ensure local wildlife and habitats including badger setts, nesting birds and great crested newts were considered and protected throughout. As a result, large parts of the Chenies and Latimer Conservation Area will now be free of overhead cables.

The undergrounding of the lines has seen more than 13 kilometres of high-voltage lines go underground with an additional 1.3 kilometres of low-voltage lines, with parts being installed with a horizontal directional drill in four areas that include two crossings that navigated around the River Chess. 15 brand new ground-mounted substations have been created along the route, that along with the new underground cables will improve network resilience.

Luke Hughes, head of asset management at UK Power Networks, said: “The Chilterns National Landscape is a special place enjoyed by thousands of people, and we’re delighted to have completed this major undergrounding project. Removing overhead lines from the Chess Valley area has significantly reduced visual impact, helping to preserve the area’s natural character while ensuring local wildlife and habitats were carefully protected throughout the works. At the same time, the new underground network will continue to provide a reliable electricity supply for the communities we serve.”

Dr. Elaine King, CEO of the Chilterns National Landscape, said: “The removal of these overhead power cables is a fantastic outcome for the Chilterns, and we’re delighted to have played a part in bringing the project forward. Putting the cables underground has transformed the landscape around Chenies, revealing its natural beauty and significantly reducing visual impact.

“This has been a long-term project requiring considerable commitment and collaboration, and we’re hugely grateful to UK Power Networks and everyone involved for their work in making it happen. A particular thank you to Allen Beechey and Neil Jackson, who worked tirelessly on this during their time with the Chilterns National Landscape. Their persistence and commitment helped keep the project moving forward, and it’s wonderful to see the benefits of that work now being realised for Chenies and the wider Chilterns.”