WORK on the latest stage £1.2million project upgrading sections of a town’s power network is well underway despite the coronavirus lockdown

Electricity North-West began phase two of the scheme in Hareholme, Rawtenstall. in April

It involves engineers replace eight underground electricity cables stretching two kilometres from Bacup Road towards Waterfoot.

Engineers have already carried out most of the initial work which includes excavating and laying hundreds of metres of ducting where the new cables will eventually sit.

Dave Kenneford, Electricity North-West’s project manager, said: “We’re really pleased with the progress we are making.

“Although we started slightly later than initially planned because of the lockdown, we’ve been able to take advantage of the quieter roads and complete a lot of our initial underground work.

“For years, customers in the area have experienced power cuts caused by the ageing cables. Phase one, completed last year, replaced the cables from Bacup Road to Lower Cloughfold and now phase two will bring benefits to even more residents and businesses in the area.

“Our teams are working hard to keep disruption to a minimum as well as adhering to all Government guidelines in place which include social distancing.

“I want to thank everyone in Rawtenstall for their cooperation and patience with the ongoing roadworks.”

Two-way traffic lights will be in operation throughout the project.

Work is expected to be completed in February.