Major upgrades to Merseyside network - Bootle to Kirkby
We are delivering a major upgrade to modernise the electricity network in Merseyside, so we can meet increasing demands for electricity in a cleaner and greener future.
The £40 million investment involves replacing a major cable connection between Bootle and Kirkby – which has been powering homes in Merseyside since the 60s – to help futureproof the local network and ensure a safe, reliable and resilient electricity supply for the region.
The project will be delivered in stages, with work starting in Knowsley in August 2025. The work will involve digging sections of road to replace old cables, then connecting the new cables to various points on our local supply network.
We expect to finish work to install cabling in Bootle in 2027, by which time the new, modern cable connection will be in place and supporting a reliable supply of electricity that’s fit for the future.
We’re working with Manchester-based supply chain partner Excalon Ltd to deliver the work, which will start with installing a section of the cable along the eastbound lane of the East Lancashire Road.
We will be working on the section of the road from the M57 exit slip road up to our existing substation off the A5208. So we can carry out the work safely, there will be a single-lane closure on the East Lancashire Road while we install the cable.
Diversion routes and signage will be in place to make people aware, and we will complete the work as safely and quickly as possible to minimise disruption.
We’ll ensure access to properties and businesses is always maintained, and do not expect electricity supplies to be interrupted as a result of this work.
We are aware that Knowsley Council is also carrying out a highways improvement scheme in the same area. We’ve worked closely with the Council to make sure our plans and theirs can be delivered alongside each other, and in a way that minimises disruption to road users over an extended period of time.
We will keep residents regularly informed as our work progresses, or if any of our plans change.
Contact our community relations team with any questions or queries: