NEW £300,000 underground power cables will enhance the landscape of a renowned beauty spot

A total of 2.6km of overhead cabling, and 29 electricity poles, have been removed between Cow Ark and Newton in the Forest of Bowland.

Electricity North West, the region’s power network operator, has invested the money to take the unsightly overhead power lines underground and removing the poles between Crimpton and Ing Barn, which were originally installed in 1958.

The scheme is part of Electricity North West’s commitment to invest £9m in undergrounding sections of the power network in Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) and National Parks across the North West between 2015-2023.

Dave Kenneford, programme delivery manager for Electricity North West, said: “We’re champions of the North West and proud that it’s our network that connects communities and keeps the power on for everyone in their daily lives.

“We are committed to doing the right thing and we put the community and their needs at the heart of everything we do.

“That’s why we’re delighted to be able to help enhance the beautiful landscape in the Forest of Bowland by removing these power lines which have served local customers well for so many years.”

Elliott Lorimer, principal officer for the Forest of Bowland AONB, said: “We're very pleased with the completion of this latest undergrounding project by Electricity North West.

“The views looking towards the Bowland Fells and beyond to Ingleborough and Pen-y-Ghent in the Yorkshire Dales really have been enhanced with the removal of the poles and overhead lines.”

To view more photographs from the area visit our Facebook or Instagram page and to read more about the work Electricity North West does across the North West visit the news page.