SP Energy Networks, Cross Border Connection –
Gala North to Scottish Border
Dear Respondent,
We are writing to inform you that SP Energy Networks has published a report on the first round of consultation on the Cross Border Connection planned in the Scottish Borders.
Cross Border Connection would see a new power line running north-south from a proposed substation north of Galashiels, to a point at the Scotland-England border, south of Newcastleton in the Scottish Borders to meet increased demand from the electrification of heat and transport and strengthen security of supply.
The project is a joint development between SP Energy Networks and National Grid Electricity Transmission (NGET) and part of a SP Energy Networks programme of investment in the South of Scotland transmission network that is expected to deliver a £2bn economic boost to the region every year between 2026 to 2031.
The Pre-Application Consultation (PAC) report published details the level of engagement in the consultation and captures key themes and issues which have been highlighted and shared across two periods of consultation in Autumn 2024 and Spring 2025.
During these consultation periods around 700 people attended local community drop-in sessions and hundreds more came along to Community Council meetings all across the Scottish Borders where the project team presented details of the preferred route .
A copy of the report can be found here: https://www.spenergynetworks.co.uk/pages/cross_border_project_documents.aspx
In response to the extensive engagement, almost 2,000 submissions were received from the local community and beyond feeding in views and information that have helped shape proposals for the route.
Key concerns expressed by communities centred around the potential impact on properties, the local tourist economy, local heritage and the environment. There was also interest in the timeline for consenting and constructing the project as well as a desire to understand why it was needed.
Based on community and stakeholder feedback, SP Energy Networks significantly revised the preferred route corridor taking it further away from key heritage and tourist sites and other sensitive areas. Information shared by the community and stakeholders will also help define the detailed route alignment, which will be developed in the next phase of project design. This will form the basis for a second round of consultation towards the end of 2026.
NGET, who are delivering the connection in England, are consulting separately on their proposals and engaging with local residents and stakeholders.
Further background information on the project is available on the project website: www.spenergynetworks.co.uk/pages/cross_border_connection.aspx
We would like to thank all residents and stakeholders who have helped shape the proposals and we will continue to keep you informed of developments. If you have any comments or questions, please email
crossborderconnection@spenergynetworks.co.uk.
Yours faithfully,
Marlene Marimbe
Scottish Power Energy Networks
Environmental Planner, Cross Border Connection Team
