Work to remove Devizes electricity pylons started by National Grid

National Grid has begun preliminary works on a scheme to remove 4.6km of overhead electricity lines from the North Wessex Downs National Landscape, just outside of Devizes.

The two-year project will replace 13 pylons with underground cables to enhance the landscape between Roundway Hill and Covet and the Bridge Inn on Horton Road.

Preliminary works recently started, including clearing vegetation and conducting archaeological surveys, ahead of the full construction phase in spring.

The current stage of the scheme will require traffic management on Horton Road intermittently throughout February, including stop and go boards, but these are not expected to cause significant delays.

Electricity pylons near Devizes (Image: Newsquest)

Horton Road is scheduled to close twice in April and May as construction ramps up.

A National Grid spokesperson said: “Our North Wessex Downs project will reduce the visual impact of a 4.6km section of overhead power line across the Devizes countryside, replacing it with underground cables.

“Preliminary work on the project has begun, including archaeological surveys and vegetation clearance.

“The main construction work will begin in the spring with the project due to complete in 2026.

“Throughout the project, we will be keeping the local community informed and will share more details in the coming weeks.”