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National Grid IFA2 recently commenced the beginning of construction at the IFA2 site by inviting Fareham Borough Council leader, Cllr Sean Woodward, and other community representatives to mark progress and take part in a ceremonial tree planting event. 

In partnership with Fareham Borough Council, it is anticipated that over 30,000 native trees both new and mature, will be planted to create an enhanced habitat across the space and appropriate screening to the north and east of the converter station. This is the start of National Grid IFA2 providing 38 acres of public open space as part of its commitment to the local community. 

IFA2, which received planning permission last year, will be a high voltage direct current (HVDC) electrical interconnector linking the British and French transmission systems. Once operational, IFA2 will be capable of exporting or importing 1000MW of power between the two countries, enough to power around 1 million homes. 

David Luetchford, Head of National Grid IFA2 said: “It was great to welcome Cllr Woodward and other local representatives to the IFA2 site yesterday to mark the start of construction. We are making a major commitment to the local community: we’ll deliver over 38 acres of open space for local people to enjoy, and we’ve signed up local companies to support this work. We look forward to working closely with the Council over the next two years to create this new resource for the community.” 

Leader of Fareham Borough Council, Cllr Sean Woodward added: “It was an honour to plant the first tree here. The Council has always been keen for a large area of public open space to accompany construction of the Interconnector, so it’s great to see this coming to fruition and I look forward to it being open for residents to enjoy.”