Work to replace damaged electicity cables completed in just two weeks after power cuts in Wigan

A £30,000 project to protect an important part of the borough’s power network has been completed.
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Engineers from Electricity North West replaced two underground electricity cables on Nook Lane in Golborne with 900m of new cable.

The damaged cables had caused a series of power cuts in the area, so the firm responded by fast-tracking the work, which would normally take up to three months, and completing it in two weeks.

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Paul McMahon, who oversaw the work for Electricity North West, said: “We recognised there were issues with sections of underground cable in Golborne and fast-tracked our investment, so the necessary repairs could be made.

Leigh MP James Grundy, centre, with Claire Skellon and Paul McMahon, from Electricity North West, on Nook LaneLeigh MP James Grundy, centre, with Claire Skellon and Paul McMahon, from Electricity North West, on Nook Lane
Leigh MP James Grundy, centre, with Claire Skellon and Paul McMahon, from Electricity North West, on Nook Lane

“I’m proud of our teams that have worked tirelessly to carry out the work inside two weeks and finish ahead of schedule, having worked seven days a week to get it done.

“I want to thank residents for their co-operation, patience and support. We wrote to customers in the area and have been posting updates on social media to keep everyone updated and I’m pleased to say the new cables are now live.”

Rumours had escalated that power cuts in the area had been caused by increased development, but Electricity North West investigations showed this was not the case.

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Engineers confirmed sufficient capacity was available and as well as writing to all customers, held an online Q&A to address any concerns.

Leigh MP James Grundy, whose constituency includes Golborne, visited the site as the finishing touches were being made.

He said: “I applaud Electricity North West for turning around a complex project inside two weeks.

“This was important to get right and get it right quickly for the area. Electricity North West recognised that the work needed carrying out and I was pleased to see that the project was fast-tracked and completed ahead of schedule, while locals were kept up to date on progress.”

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