The Cotswolds Visual Impact Provision (VIP) Project

National Grid’s Visual Impact Provision (VIP) project, which aims to enhance the Cotswolds National Landscape by reducing the visual impact of overhead powerlines along the Cotswold Way, has moved a step forward following planning approvals by Cotswold District Council and Tewkesbury Borough Council.

The project will involve replacing approximately 7km of overhead electricity lines with underground cables. The affected area stretches from the Postlip Mill, to the south west of Winchcombe, to Dowdeswell and Whittington, to the south east of Cheltenham, running close and parallel to the Cotswold Way.

Who will be affected by the Visual Impact Provision (VIP) project?

• If you own land within this 7km stretch, your land may be affected.
• Check the map provided by National Grid to confirm: You can visit the National Grid VIP Project page for the map and documents.

What has happened so far?

• National Grid has made a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) for land access and usage rights.
• The CPO is being submitted to the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero for confirmation.
• Landowners affected may have been contacted by National Grid or their agent Dalcour Maclaren.

What should you do now?

If you believe your land is affected by the National Grid’s Visual Impact Provision (VIP) project, please get in touch with one of our expert team who will be able to assist with your next steps. We are currently dealing with numerous sections of the project and beginning to get heads of terms and draft options and easements in to negotiate.

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