23 June 2008 16:41 Central Networks begins work on £2m project to improve Leek’s electricity network – and the view
An electricity substation in Leek is to be completely renovated - and the outdoor equipment moved inside a new building - as part of a £2m upgrade project being carried out by Central Networks, the electricity distribution company for central England.
The work, which started today (Monday 23rd June), will see the outdoor switchgear removed from the primary substation in Station Street, Leek, improving the view for nearby residents and businesses.
The upgrade is expected to take until July next year to complete, with most of the electrical equipment currently sited outdoors in a secure, fenced-off compound moving into a new building on the site.
Mike Beasley, Project Manager with Central Networks, said: "We're replacing this equipment in order to guarantee power supplies in the local area both now and for the future as demand grows, and, as a bonus, the site will be far nicer to look at.
"The switchgear outside the substation will be dismantled and removed. The view for local residents will be greatly improved by these works.
"This modern technology not only improves the network but helps us with our commitment to improve the areas where we operate and help the customers we serve.
"There may unfortunately be an increase in road traffic while we carry out work on the substation and we apologise for this inconvenience, but I hope local people will appreciate the changes we are bringing in on site."
The project forms just part of a five-year £1.2bn investment being made by Central Networks, which is part of E.ON.
Ends
Notes to editors:
- Central Networks is the new name for Midlands Electricity and East Midlands Electricity. The company brings power to 4.9 million customers across Central England through 133,000km of underground and overhead cables - enough to go round the Earth almost four times - 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 contact:
Andrew Barrow on 024 7618 3677
A selection of Central Networks pictures is available free of charge to the media by registering at www.newscast.co.uk and looking under Distribution