SP Energy Networks is set to get to work on a multi-million modernisation of the electricity network in Merseyside to help meet increasing demands for electricity in a cleaner and greener future.
The £40 million investment will replace a major underground cable connection between Kirkby and Bootle, which has been powering 160,000 homes in Merseyside for more than 60 years.
The works will increase capacity on the local network, ensuring it remains fit for purpose as people make greener choices and switch to low-carbon technologies like electric vehicles and heat pumps.
The works on the new connection – which will be carried out by Manchester-based contractor, Excalon Ltd – will kick-off in Knowsley from Saturday 9 August 2025.
All the works being undertaken, along with the associated traffic management plans, have been agreed with Knowsley Council, which is also carrying out its highways improvement scheme in the same area.
SP Energy Networks and Excalon Ltd have been working closely with the council to coordinate their plans, so both projects can be delivered at the same time and in a way that minimises disruption to road users over an extended period of time.
The impacted locations and traffic management plans for the work will be clearly signposted in advance, so road users are clear about how the changes may affect their journey. Road signs will remain in place for the duration of the work.
Liam O’Sullivan, SP Energy Networks’ Manweb Licence Director, said:
“Over the next 25 years, electricity demand is set to double as people make the move to low-carbon options for transport and heating, with our Merseyside and Wirral districts alone forecast to be home to an incredible one million electric vehicles and heat pumps by 2050.
“That requires an incredible transformation to our network in the region – much of which was built when the Beatles were at their peak! So, we need to modernise and move with the times and that’s why we’re investing more than £250 million in this area between 2023-2028 – including the new Bootle to Kirkby connection.”
Chris Cummings, SP Energy Networks Project Manager, said:
“This project is one of our biggest in the region and testament to our commitment to ensuring our customers benefit from a safe, reliable and resilient electricity supply – both now and in the future. Our priority is to complete these works as safely and as quickly as possible while keeping any impact to a minimum.
“While the works will be completed in short sections along the route, we appreciate there will be some disruption – given this is such a major project. We’re doing everything we can to keep that to a minimum and appreciate the support of Knowlsey Council to help us achieve that.
“We will also keep local communities and regional partners informed about what’s happening and when and that work is already underway. We apologise for any inconvenience and thank local people in advance for their understanding and support.”
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