National Grid applies for Sea Link project

Sea Link's onshore infrastructure would connect power onto the existing network, so it can be transported to homes and businesses across the country

National Grid's plans for a new electricity line between Kent and Suffolk have been submitted to the Planning Inspectorate, the company has announced.

The Sea Link project aims to lay 90 miles (145km) of undersea cable that comes ashore near Sandwich in Kent and between Thorpeness and Aldeburgh in Suffolk.

Adrian Pierssene, project director for Sea Link said: "We have listened to and considered all the feedback we have received, shaping the plans we are submitting as a result.

"Sea Link is a vital investment in Great Britain's energy future, creating the extra capacity needed to integrate renewable power into the grid, boosting energy security and supporting a cleaner electricity network."

The Planning Inspectorate has 28 days to decide whether to accept the application, which has raised concerns among environmental groups.

Kent Wildlife Trust has launched a campaign calling on National Grid to "Rethink Sea Link".

It said the route would cause disturbance to wildlife at the National Nature Reserve Pegwell Bay and surrounding nature sites, calling on National Grid to "choose the least damaging route".

The proposed cable would carry renewable power from offshore wind, interconnectors and nuclear power to where it is needed.

A sub-station and converter station has also been planned for Minster, near Ramsgate, Kent, and near Saxmundham in Suffolk.