THE company responsible for keeping the region’s lights on has announced investment in York’s electricity network.

Northern Powergrid is embarking on a £300,000 investment to improve reliability and resilience of the network serving the city centre.

As part of a wider programme of works, the company will deliver four schemes during 2019/20, replacing 2.5km of high voltage underground cable.

The first of these will involve cable replacement works along Aldwark, from St Anthonys Hall on Peasholme Green to Goodramgate, starting on May 7 for about six weeks.

A second phase will start in September/October, encompassing a section from the corner of Aldwark and Goodramgate to the end of Deangate and taking around three weeks.

Details of dates and diversions will be issued nearer the time.

Mike Hammond, general manager for the North Yorkshire region, said: “We understand how important a safe and reliable power network is in supporting the local community, businesses and the tourism industry of York and that’s why we’re investing to improve the service we provide.

“At the same time, we also understand the potential impact that carrying out these works can have on people’s everyday lives and our team will be working hard to ensure we minimise the impact where possible."

Northern Powergrid has put a traffic management and diversion plan in place for the works.

Vehicles and bikes will still have access and arrangements have been made for businesses to continue to receive deliveries. Pedestrian access for residents is maintained.

Mr Hammond said: “As with any construction, there will be some localised disruption while we carry out this important work, but we’re liaising closely with local residents and businesses, as well as Rachael Maskell MP and ward councillors, so we can keep them updated on how we’re delivering on our commitments.

“We’re also working in partnership with City of York Council to ensure our works are delivered safely and efficiently and are outside of the busy summer and winter tourist periods that are vital to the city.”

Northern Powergrid supplies electricity to eight million customers across 3.9m homes and businesses in the region as a whole.