WORK has begun on a £10 million project to modernise power supplies across mid Cheshire.

SP Energy Networks will install 3km of new 33,000 volt cable along School Lane and into Chester Road in Hartford.

Over the next few weeks the company is scheduled to start the works in Hartford and will continue through to the end of September 2017.

In addition, the energy giant also completed the installation around 1km of new 33,000 volt cable along New Road, under the River Weaver and into High Street in Winsford, in April.

SP Energy Networks says this investment programme facilitates future growth and demand needs across Winsford, Northwich and the surrounding area, in addition to providing an increased resilience of supply to the existing 70,000 of homes and businesses.

Mark Sobczak, head of 132kV Programmes at SP Energy Networks, said: "This is a significant investment in our electricity network supporting thousands of customers in mid-Cheshire.

“We will continue to co-ordinate closely with Cheshire West and Chester Highways and Councillors to deliver the project as quickly as possible, and to minimise any disruption during these essential works.”

The works were originally slated to commence in March.

Following agreement with Cheshire West and Chester Highways, the delivery plan has been confirmed:

  • Phase 1 – June 29 to July 24: School Lane to Riddings Lane junction
  • Phase 2 – July 24 to August 7: School Lane towards The Green
  • Phase 3 – August 7 to September 3: Chester Road to Greenbank railway station
  • Phase 4 – August 21 to September 3: A556/School Lane junction towards Vale Road junction, with School Lane being closed in this immediate area for the duration
  • Phase 5 – September 6 to September 20: From A556 to School Lane junction

Traffic management measures will be in place while the work is undertaken.

Cllr Karen Shore, CWAC Cabinet member for environment, said: “SP Energy Network’s investment will ensure future electricity needs across Winsford, Northwich and the surrounding areas.

“Our Highways Team worked closely with SP Energy Network as they planned their work programme, to ensure disruption is minimised for residents and businesses – the majority of the works will take place during the school summer holidays.”