National Grid has started work on the new 10km cable tunnel that will run between existing substations at Beddington and Rowdown.
The scheme forms part of National Grid’s major investment programme to reinforce the electricity transmission network and continue to supply electricity reliably to London and the south-east.
The first phase of work – to excavate the shaft access to the tunnel – is underway at Kent Gate Way, with tunnelling due to start early in 2007 and continue until autumn 2008. The electricity cable is due to be installed and operational by 2011.
Jim Street, senior project manager for National Grid, said: “To minimise disruption to local people and road users, National Grid is constructing a 10km tunnel to house new cables. Installing the new cable within a tunnel will ensure that we can conduct routine checks and maintenance without the need for road excavations. In addition, should the need arise, the tunnel will allow a further circuit to be installed with only minor inconvenience.”
National Grid is committed to keeping local communities updated throughout the project. For anyone requiring further information the National Grid Community Relations Team is managing a dedicated freephone information line on 0800 389 8261.
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For further media information only , please contact Sarah Harris, National Grid Communications on 07866 488894