Council leaders have called for a temporary halt to controversial plans which would see miles of pylons over swathes of Norfolk's countryside.

South Norfolk Council wants a pause on National Grid's proposed Norwich to Tilbury electricity transmission project - saying a delay is needed to consider and evaluate alternative options to the pylon plan.

Lisa Overton-NealLisa Overton-Neal (Image: Simon Finlay)

Lisa Overton-Neal, the council's cabinet member for planning and economic growth, said: "While we acknowledge the need for increased electricity transmission capacity in the region and the importance of achieving net zero carbon emissions, we cannot accept the single option presented to us by National Grid.

"The proposed overhead lines and pylons would have a significant and potentially devastating impact on our district.

"We urge National Grid to pause the project and engage with us in a constructive dialogue to explore alternative solutions that will minimize the impact on our communities and environment.

Plans for pylons should be paused, says South Norfolk CouncilPlans for pylons should be paused, says South Norfolk Council

READ MORE: Norfolk County Council opposes Norwich to Tilbury pylons

The council says alternative options - including an offshore grid with undersea cables - have not been properly considered.

National Grid says the line, with 50-metre high pylons, is needed to carry electricity generated by North Sea wind farms.

The organisation said it has assessed alternative options and that delaying the project would prevent people getting cleaner and cheaper electricity.