Northern Powergrid to begin first phase of £30m resilience work

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NORTHERN Powergrid is about to start the first phase of its £30 million investment to improve the reliability and resilience of the electricity network serving Bradford.

Taking place between now and the end of 2022, the work focuses on replacing five of the major circuits that supply electricity to approximately two thirds of Bradford’s homes and businesses.

This work will ensure that the local electricity network is capable of meeting the existing demand for power as well as any future increase in demand as the population grows and more households switch to electric vehicles.

The first phase of this work will see the company upgrade two underground electricity circuits that run between its Bradford West substation in Thornton and its Girlington substation with more modern and sustainable alternatives.

Steve McDonald, Northern Powergrid’s General Manager for the West Yorkshire Region, said: “We’re very aware of the potential impact on people’s everyday lives, so we’re working closely with Bradford Council to agree the least impactful routes and times so we can minimise disruption wherever possible.

“In addition, we’re actively working with the council and local councillors to ensure people know exactly what’s happening, why it’s important for their community and what we’re doing to minimise the impact wherever we can.

“Our teams will be out and about in the areas that will be directly affected delivering letters and leaflets.  They’ll be talking with residents and businesses about the work we’re doing to improve the network that powers their everyday life and our free Priority Services Register which offers extra support to customers who may be more vulnerable.”

A second phase of work for this investment in Bradford’s power network is planned to start in May 2020.