Work on a £6 million project that will help ensure the continued reliability and resilience of the local electricity network in Merseyside – and support people and businesses to go greener – is now underway in Southport.
Our multi-million investment will create a new underground network cable connection between Southport and Formby substations in the region. This will reinforce the existing network and support increased demand for electricity as people and businesses make the move to green technologies like heat pumps and electric vehicles.
The works – which will be completed in phases – involve digging sections of the road to install new cables before connecting them to the existing substations.
To ensure the works can be carried out safely and effectively, temporary traffic management arrangements will be in operation along the route as needed, with advance warning signage in place ahead of times and information sent directly to local homes and businesses.
The section of works getting underway this week starts along Russell Road, then Crowland Street and on to Butt’s Lane. The works will then cross Norwood Street before reaching Haig Avenue and joining up with cable ducts that have already been installed.
Temporary traffic lights will be in place on Russell Road, Crowland Street, Norwood Street and Butts Lane. Concurrent works will also take place on Heathfield Road where temporary traffic lights are already in place.
Access to properties will be maintained at all times.
The phased approach will ensure only small sections of the route are affected at any time and the full programme of works is expected to be completed by summer 2025.
Andy Whalley, SP Energy Networks’ Senior Project Manager, said: “These important investment works will ensure Merseyside has the modern and resilient electricity network the region deserves – and needs.
“However, we fully recognise that the works will cause some disruption and inconvenience in the areas where our contactors are active. We’re sorry for this and thank local people and businesses for their patience and cooperation.
“We’ve worked closely with Sefton Council to plan both the route and the timing of the programme to ensure any disruption is kept to a minimum and we will continue to keep people informed as work progresses.
“The current network has served the region well and our multi-million investment will ensure we
can continue to do the same for generations to come, while supporting a cleaner and greener way of life.”
Any questions about the works can be directed during office hours to the dedicated community relations team on 0800 024 1439 or by emailing: formbyreinforcement@spenenquiries.co.uk.