THE beauty of parts of the Forest of Bowland have been restored to their full glory after more than 30 electricity poles, and 4km of overhead power lines, were removed.

The region’s power operator, Electricity North West, has invested £286,000 to permanently remove the poles and overhead lines, between Backsbottom, Harterbeck and Stauvin, in Roeburndale, which have been a firm fixture in the area for more than 60 years.

The company worked alongside the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty to replace the power lines with underground cables to improve the views.

Mike Dugdale, programme delivery manager for Electricity North West, said: “Our overhead power lines are essential in keeping the lights on, but we understand in some areas, including Areas of Outstanding Beauty, they can become a dominant feature on the landscape.

“The project required great skill to install the new cable, and it will greatly improve the appearance of the area which is enjoyed by many walkers throughout the year.”

The work forms part of a £5.4m five-year project to replace lines identified as being most visually intrusive within the National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, in the North West.

Elliott Lorimer, principal AONB officer for the Forest of Bowland, said: “It is great to see the poles and overhead lines coming down, and I am sure this work will be hugely appreciated by visitors to the Forest of Bowland for years to come.

“We’ve worked very closely with Electricity North West and we’re delighted with this project to enhance the landscape of the area.”

For more information on the project visit www.forestofbowland.com/home