A Cumbrian-village is set to benefit from a multimillion-pound investment which will strengthen and future-proof its power network.
SP Electricity North West has earmarked £16m towards the village of Coniston with work set to take place on both the underground and overhead power networks.
The extensive engineering work will take place across a 39km stretch of electrical assets and once complete, the village will benefit from a more reliable and resilient network which will also support local economic growth, transport, future development and tourism.
Vincent Cranny, head of capital projects at SP Electricity North West said: “Our £16m investment in Coniston represents a major commitment to village’s future.
“The work we’ll be carrying out will significantly improve the reliability of the power network, future proof crucial electrical infrastructure and create future capacity which will unlock the pathway towards economic growth.
“We recognise the significance of the project and we are committed to working closely with key stakeholders so we minimise impact where possible.
“However, I want to reinforce that this is a long-term investment that will deliver lasting benefits for homes, businesses and visitors while also ensuring Coniston has a reliable power network.”
Throughout the project, SP Electricity North West is working closely with Westmorland and Furness Council to coordinate traffic management and ensure disruption is kept to a minimum.
The firm is also working with Westmorland and Lonsdale MP Tim Farron, ensuring he is kept up to date and information will be shared with his constituents.
“I’m delighted that this significant investment is going into strengthening Coniston’s electricity network,” added Tim Farron MP.
“The severe impact of numerous storms in recent years have highlighted how fragile the network can be, with residents left without power for days on end.
“Storms are becoming commonplace so this is a really welcome and vital move to make Coniston more resilient for many years to come.
“I also want to thank the local councillor Suzanne Pender for campaigning tirelessly for a more resilient service since Storm Arwen in 2021”
SP Electricity North West’s work taking place will see new connections installed between Ambleside and Coniston as well as reinforcement on its underground 33,000-volt network.
A stretch of overhead powerlines between Ulverston and Coniston, including across Blawith Fell, will be removed, with underground cables being installed.
Work is due to start on Thursday 2nd July at Bog Lane, Barngates in Ambleside. Throughout th project, SP Electricity North West will provide regular updates to residents and businesses.
For more information, visit www.enwl.co.uk/Coniston.
