Wilkin Chapman solicitors explores the impact of the Scotland to England green link on landowners

Advertisement Feature: Katie Wright, partner in the agricultural team at Wilkin Chapman, considers the crucial points to consider when negotiating with developers.
Ad Feature by Wilkin Chapman
Published 27th Jan 2023, 07:00 GMT
Updated 10th Feb 2023, 07:16 GMT
“New link could cause significant problems for landowners across the breadth of the suggested route.”“New link could cause significant problems for landowners across the breadth of the suggested route.”
“New link could cause significant problems for landowners across the breadth of the suggested route.”

A new electricity link that will carry ‘green’ energy generated in Scotland directly to England through off-shore cables has been proposed.

The high-voltage electrical ‘superhighway’ will run for over 313 miles, operating between Sandford Bay, Aberdeenshire, through to substations at Drax, North Yorkshire.

Known as SEGL2 (Scotland England Green Link 2), the cable will run under the North Sea for 271.5 miles before coming ashore at Wilsthorpe, near Bridlington, where it will run 42 miles to Drax.

Don’t let compulsory purchase powers deny you the value of your landDon’t let compulsory purchase powers deny you the value of your land
Don’t let compulsory purchase powers deny you the value of your land

National Grid has joined forces with Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) to develop the scheme, which submitted a planning application under the Town and Country Planning Act 2008 2008 to Selby District Council and the East Riding of Yorkshire Council.

But what does this mean for landowners?

If your land is impacted by the easement route and you are contacted with terms, seek professional advice prior to signing anything.

Landowners are advised to consult with a land agent, who will negotiate the best terms, and a specialist solicitor to review terms prior to signature and then deal with the deed of easement document on your behalf.

The pivotal points for landowners to consider when negotiating easement agreements are:

Location. Negotiate the least disruptive route for the cables on your land, with the best possible compensation when not viable.

Crop loss and compensation. Ensure that a surveyor with local knowledge and experience is appointed to negotiate this on your behalf.

Access issues and maintenance. The electricity company will require access to run the cables and place equipment, as well as for repair and maintenance. Request prior written notice, as well as a set timeframe and access route, for every instance. Ensure the onus for repairs is squarely placed on the utility company to avoid liability.

Restoration. Be aware of the developer’s obligations to restore the land following construction, especially for land drains and topsoil.

Restrictions. Enquire what longer-term implications are going to be placed on the land.

Fees. The developer should be responsible for the payment of your land agent's and solicitor's fees.

If you are affected by the SEGL2 route or a similar development, please contact Katie Wright on 01482 398376, email [email protected] or visit www.wilkinchapman.co.uk/sectors/agriculture-and-food

Related topics:ScotlandEnglandNational GridBridlingtonNorth Yorkshire