A major electricity substation planned for Weston Marsh looks likely to win approval despite objections from parish councils, Lincolnshire County Council and South Holland and the Deepings MP Sir John Hayes.
The proposal, reported on October 14, 2026, covers an 84-hectare site in flat agricultural land north of Weston and north west of Moulton Seas End. It includes a new access road and a 400kV substation forming part of the Great Grid Upgrade.
Why the scheme is being opposed
Weston Parish Council and Moulton Parish Council have both argued that the site is inappropriate and would mean the loss of farmland. They have also raised concerns about effects on wildlife and additional traffic while the facility is being built.
The Environment Agency initially objected over issues including the potential impact on European eels and flood risk. The source report says those issues have since been resolved, according to the planning application.
Lincolnshire County Council continues to object to what it describes as the development’s adverse effects on the local community during construction. A report prepared for South Holland District Council’s Planning Committee warns that residents could face a lengthy period of building activity.
“What is currently proposed will result in the local community experiencing a prolonged period of construction activity,”
The county council has also questioned whether the application is needed now, saying there would be enough time for the proposed substation to be operational by 2031 under the Grimsby to Walpole project.
National energy case put forward
The project has received support from Outer Dowsing Wind Farm. The wind farm is expected to bring electricity ashore through the substation and is described in the source report as one of the UK’s largest, with planned generation capable of supplying more than 1.6 million households.
The entire project has been contracted with the National Energy System Operator for connection by 2030 under an agreement that has been in place for three years. The report also says the substation scheme is regarded as nationally important energy infrastructure.
Sir John Hayes has objected, while letters of support have been submitted by Outer Dowsing Wind Farm.
What happens next
South Holland District Council’s Planning Committee is due to consider the application on Wednesday. The officer report concludes that the national energy benefits would outweigh the harm identified in the planning balance.
“There are considered to be significant material considerations in this case that would substantially outweigh the harm identified, therefore the planning balance is for the proposal,”
The decision will determine whether the Weston Marsh site can move forward as part of the wider Power Networks upgrade and Great Grid Upgrade plans.
