Utility companies regularly approach farmers and landowners seeking access to private land to install, maintain or upgrade essential infrastructure. While these projects play an important role in supporting the country's energy and infrastructure needs, they can have significant implications for agricultural businesses, land management and the long-term value and use of rural property. 

Works may include the installation of electricity cables and overhead lines, water pipelines, gas mains and telecommunications equipment, together with associated access tracks, construction compounds and ongoing maintenance requirements. 

For landowners, it is important to understand that agreeing to allow access is not simply a matter of opening the farm gate. The rights granted to utility providers, the terms of any agreement, and the compensation payable can have lasting consequences. 

A current example of the impact of major infrastructure on rural landowners is National Grid's Central Devon Reinforcement Project, which includes a new 132kV overhead electricity line between the existing Alverdiscott substation and North Tawton substation, alongside the installation of an additional transformer at North Tawton. 

The project is intended to strengthen the electricity network and improve supply resilience for homes, farms and businesses across central Devon. 

For affected landowners, projects of this scale can involve extensive negotiations over land rights, access arrangements, construction activities and the future presence of infrastructure on their holdings. 

It is therefore essential that farmers and landowners understand their position from the outset and obtain independent professional advice before entering into agreements or allowing works to commence. 

Kivells' Rural Professional Services team can assist farmers, landowners and rural businesses dealing with utility companies and infrastructure schemes, providing advice on land rights, wayleaves, easements, compensation and the wider implications of proposed works. 

If you have been approached by a utility company, have land affected by the Alverdiscott to North Tawton High Voltage Line Project, or are concerned about a proposed infrastructure scheme, contact Kivells' Rural Professional Services team before agreeing to any arrangements. 

Early advice can make a significant difference to protecting your land, your business and your long-term interests.

Toby Theobald 

01409 253275 | toby.theobald@kivells.com