Residents in the Scottish Borders are being asked to comment on updated plans for a new electricity substation, Gala North, during a public consultation from 8 June to 10 July 2026.

An initial consultation took place in June 2024 on a site between Galashiels and Lauder, and the revised proposals respond to feedback from that stage, including concerns about access and visual impact.

The substation is proposed around four kilometres south of Lauder, with the main footprint covering six hectares. Additional land within the wider boundary would be used for access, drainage infrastructure, landscaping and screening.

It is designed to accommodate 132kV air‑insulated connections and 400kV gas‑insulated connections, with the 400kV transformers housed within a building constructed on site.

The location was chosen for its limited visibility in the surrounding landscape, the absence of nearby properties, and its proximity to existing overhead line infrastructure.

Two community drop‑in events will be held to share more information and answer questions: 3–7pm on Tuesday 9 June 2026 at Lauder Public Hall, Lauder (TD2 6SR); and 3–7pm on Wednesday 10 June 2026 at Blainslie Village Hall, Galashiels (TD1 2QF).

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At the same time, SP Energy Networks is consulting on proposals to divert a section of the existing 400kV overhead line (ZA route) that runs between Cockenzie and Eccles, three miles south of Lauder, into the proposed substation. This would involve 1.25km of new overhead line, six towers and two gantries to strengthen this part of the network.

Through its RIIO‑T3 Business Plan, the company is investing up to £12 billion across the transmission network in central and southern Scotland to support energy security and foster economic growth. Projects such as Gala North form part of the largest rewiring of the GB electricity grid since it was created, boosting local network resilience and delivering more power to communities when needed.

Mark Flannigan, SP Energy Networks Project Manager for Gala North substation, said: "We're pleased to share these revised proposals for the new Gala North Substation. We have listened to local feedback and the plans reflect that.

"This work is part of ScottishPower's £12bn transmission investment programme which will be vital in strengthening the UK's electricity transmission network. The replacement, upgrades and new infrastructure are critical to delivering a more secure and resilient grid and will help drive economic growth. These works are already delivering high quality, highly skilled jobs and supply chain contracts, across the Scottish Borders and the wider UK.

"We want to hear from local residents about our plans to help us develop these proposals further.

"Engaging with local communities is essential for us so we hope that people will get in touch; either by attending one of the public exhibitions in the area, or by contacting us directly."

Further details are available on the dedicated Gala North project website: www.spenergynetworks.co.uk/pages/the_proposal_gala_north.aspx

You can complete a feedback form online, call 020 3861 3742 to request a paper copy (with a pre‑addressed return envelope), or email [email protected]. Additional consultation events will follow later in the year.