Please note that in May 2024, we were notified that there were supply chain problems, delaying some of the works. The updated dates for closure are now in this article.
During 2024 National Grid will be upgrading the overhead electricity line between Bramley in Hampshire to Melksham in Wiltshire. The project involves both the replacement of pylon fittings and replacing and upgrading the conductors - these are the wires strung between the 229 pylons on the route, along which the electricity is transmitted. The route of the power line passes through the Vale of Pewsey.
Whilst the work is being done, it is necessary to temporarily close public rights of way (roads, byways, bridleways and footpaths) that pass underneath the overhead lines in the areas they will be working.
Initially, National Grid has secured permission for a six-month temporary closure for each of these routes but the closures will in reality only be in place for a period of a few weeks in each area whilst the work is being done. As they work their way through the project, the actual closure dates for a footpath or other right of way will be made more definite and may only be a few days.
You can find out more about the project and its impact here.
We have checked our walking routes and have found that some of the routes are impacted. The table opposite provides information on the rights of way closures in our area (updated in June 2024 with changed dates). The reference number is the identifier for the relevant right of way - you may need this if you make enquiries to National Grid about the closure.
We would recommend checking with National Grid if you are planning to do any of these impacted walks or to find an alternative route on the impacted section.
The walks that are impacted are:
Green Drove, Pewsey White Horse, Manningford Abbots
The closure of Green Drove (PEWS46) will impact this route
Kepnal, Fyfield Down, Giant's Grave, Pewsey Hill, Winter's Drove
The closure of Winter's Drove (PEWS42) and MLIL18 will impact this route
Woodborough, Kennet & Avon Canal, Honeystreet & Bottlesford
The closure of NNEW4 may impact this route. The part of this right of way that the walk follows is much further north than the pylon works, so you may be able to pass.
Bruce Arms, Milton Lilbourne & Easton Royal
For the short route: The closure of EROY22 and EROY15 will impact this route. The part of EROY22 that this route follows is much further north than the pylon works, so you may be able to pass.
For the long route: The closure of EROY22 and EROY14 will impact this route. The part of EROY22 that this route follows is much further north than the pylon works, so you may be able to pass.
Bruce Arms, Wootton Rivers, Kennet & Avon Canal, Pewsey & Milton Lilbourne
The closure of EROY22 may impact this route. The part of EROY22 that this route follows is much further north than the pylon works, so you may be able to pass.
The closure of MLIL18 may impact this route. The part of MLIL18 that this route follows is much further north than the pylon works, so you may be able to pass.
Pewsey Vale Circular Walk - Stage 7 Oxenwood to Ham
Pewsey Vale Circular Ride
The closure of SHAL38 will impact these routes. For both routes there is an alternative you can take. After Pearce's Farm, you could turn left and walk/ride along the lane, then turn right at Cross Droves and then turn right again heading south towards Henley and rejoin the route at Henley Farm.