A PUBLIC consultation into controversial plans for giant electricity pylons along the Essex-Suffolk border is due to start today.

The National Grid is hold a non-statutory public consultation on its proposals.

The bid would see the company “reinforce” the electricity network between Twinstead and Bramford, in Suffolk, with the construction of 29km of pylons and underground cabling.

A substation would also be built off the A131 between Halstead and Sudbury near Twinstead, Wickham St Paul and Bulmer Tye.

Halstead county councillor Jo Beavis has been involved in the consultation, having previously expressed relief the substation will not be located in Castle Hedingham.

Plans were initially proposed back in 2009, but work was paused in 2013.

The National Grid say the pylons are needed as offshore wind generation increases.

It says the project is required to meet the increased demand for clean energy and the National Grid will engage with local communities to inform them of the development of the project.

The consultation opens today and will run for six weeks until May 6.

Senior project manager Aaron Zuill said: “The UK’s transition to more renewable energy provides a great opportunity to deliver a more sustainable future for all, but it is critical that we have the infrastructure in place to support the ambitious government plans to provide 40GW of electricity from offshore wind by 2030.

“Our connection between Bramford and Twinstead is essential to bringing more clean energy to homes and businesses across the UK and to meeting these targets.

“We are looking forward to hearing from local residents and businesses in the region as we develop our proposals, and I’d encourage everyone to get involved.”

Due to pandemic restrictions, the consultation will include an online interactive website at nationalgrid.com/bramford-twinstead.

National Grid will also be holding a series of webinars and live chats for people to find out more about the proposals.

Details about how to register for those and how to give feedback are on the project website.

Residents who prefer to respond to the consultation via post can also receive a printed copy of the feedback form and a freepost envelope by calling 0808 196 1515.

Full details, including how to obtain printed copies of consultation documents, will be provided in a community newsletter to everyone along the route.

The National Grid says there will be a further opportunity to comment on detailed proposals later in the year, before an application is made for planning permission.