POWER bosses are set to launch a consultation over plans to bring more than 18 miles of overhead and underground cables to the north Essex countryside.

National Grid says it wants to hear the opinions of residents as it aims to boost the electricity network between Twinstead and Bramford substation, near Ipswich.

The company says a new set of power lines are needed between the two villages by 2028.

The cables would carry renewable and low carbon power to homes and businesses as the country aims to achieve net zero by 2050.

National Grid will hold an eight-week consultation, which starts on January 25 and runs until March 21.

It needs a development consent order before starting, which can take up to 18 months before a decision is made.

Inspectors will issue a recommendation to the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, who will make the final decision.

National Grid anticipates submitting the application in winter 2022 to 2023.

The cables are needed to carry power from offshore wind farms, interconnectors and nuclear power.

The 400kV electricity reinforcement is comprised of nearly 12 miles of overhead power lines and more than six miles of underground cables.

Plans would also see 17 miles of existing pylons in the area removed.

National Grid held a non-statutory consultation last year, which helped with the development of the project.

This statutory public consultation will give people the chance to see how their comments have been taken into account and to provide further feedback on the plans, before National Grid submits a planning application to the Planning Inspectorate.

Project director Liam Walker said: “This reinforcement between Bramford and Twinstead is essential to carry more clean energy to homes and businesses across the UK, and to help the country reach net zero by 2050.

“We thank everyone who has already commented on our plans, and we are looking forward to sharing our updated proposals and receiving further feedback.”

Members of the public can take part by attending online webinars, booking a slot at an ‘ask the experts’ session or by visiting the project website.

A number of dates have been highlighted for events. For more information, visit nationalgrid.com/bramford-twinstead.