A £1 million scheme to upgrade a Lake District town’s power network is set to start soon.
Electricity North West and Cumbria County Council will begin work in Windermere on October 3 to upgrade and replace 5.4km of underground electricity cables.
The work will allow for the installation of Windermere’s first electric ferry and make possible potential installations of new electric charging points in several car parks in the town.
Engineers will start work on Lake Road and will progress through Windermere and Bowness.
John Wilkinson, who is overseeing the work for Electricity North West, said: “This project has been in planning for several months we can now confirm a start date to help keep businesses and residents informed about the work.
“The work we’re carrying out is a major upgrade which will lead to the first ever electric ferry being installed in Cumbria.
“This major investment in the town will not only allow for the electric ferry to function, but also create opportunities for charging points to be installed in Windermere.”
Electricity North West has worked alongside Cumbria County Council and Cumbria Tourism planning the project.
Councillor Keith Little, Cumbria County Council’s cabinet member for highways and transport, added: “I’m delighted to hear that funding has been secured and work is planned to start in the coming weeks on this major electricity upgrade in Windermere.
“Our plans for the electric Windermere Ferry relies on this infrastructure being in place. The enhanced provision of electric vehicle charging points in this high tourist area will also be of great benefit to visitors and locals alike.
“I’d like to thank the travelling public in advance for their patience and understanding whilst these important works take place as traffic delays are inevitable.”
Throughout the project, temporary traffic lights and road closures will be needed.
Managing director of Cumbria Tourism, Gill Haigh, said: “The development of Windermere’s first electric ferry is very welcome. Along with the benefits of potential new electric charging points in several car parks, this will be crucial in supporting future business and tourism, as well as supporting Cumbria’s wider ambitions as a sustainable visitor destination.
“Works will be required to make the transformation possible but we are delighted by the approach being taken by Electricity North West to engage with businesses and minimise disruption, out of the main visitor season. We will continue the dialogue on behalf of our members and partners throughout the project.”
A drop-in session will be held next Thursday, September 22, from 2pm to 8pm at The Ladyholme Centre on Lake Road for people to find out more.
Electricity North West added that information packs were being produced and people and businesses along the route will receive updates about the scheme.
