16 May 2005 00:00 Central Networks builds on record success to cut power cuts in the West Midlands

After slashing power cuts caused by utility cable damages in the East of the region by nearly 50%*, Central Networks is planning to mirror the success in the West Midlands.

Every year thousands of cables are accidentally damaged when utilities and local authority contractors dig without finding out where underground power cables are located, leading to serious injury and power cuts.

Central Networks tackled the problem head on in the East Midlands by establishing regular meetings with all the major utilities and local authorities to educate them about safe working practices.

And the company is now planning to extend that service to the West Midlands by getting local authorities and utility divisions on board.

CableSafe manager Graham Coles said: “We’re delighted with the results and believe, with time, we can achieve a similar record in the West Midlands.

“We’re now busy building up new relationships in the West Midlands and believe that, by working together and providing training on safe working practices, we can hopefully prevent workers from being injured and our customers suffering needless power cuts.”

Central Networks launched its CableSafe scheme in the West Midlands in August 2004 and has had a positive response from contractors in the region.

Graham said: “It’s not just big businesses and local authorities who can use CableSafe, local builders and anyone planning to dig below ground who could potentially come into contact with our cables should get our help and advice before starting work.”

Underground cables carrying high voltage electricity could be located anywhere underground and contractors in the West Midlands which could end up digging near a cable should call 0800 0150 927 for free advice. If you do damage a cable, call 0800 0150921 immediately.

For further information on the training courses please call 0800 0150927 or log onto www.central-networks.com.

Ends
Notes to editors:
* = Actual damages reduced by 44% for quarter, against 2004 figures.
• Central Networks is the new name for Midlands Electricity and East Midlands Electricity. The company brings power to 4.8 million customers across the East and West Midlands through 133,000km of underground and overhead cables and via almost 97,000 substations;
• Central Networks covers an area from the Peak District in the north to parts of Bristol in the south, and from the Welsh Borders to the Lincolnshire Coast.

For further information and pictures contact:
Kathy Doyle on 024 7642 4292,
Or Rebecca Middleton on 024 7642 5779
Out of hours, call 024 7642 4000 and ask for the duty press officer