£1m investment in Windermere power network confirmed

Electricity North West, the Stockport-based infrastructure provider, has confirmed £1m-worth of investment to upgrade the power network for Windermere in the Lake District.

Next month the provider will start work upgrading and replacing 5.4km of underground electricity cables as part of its £1m scheme.

The work, carried out alongside Cumbria County Council, will create crucial new capacity which will enable the installation of Windermere’s first electric ferry.

The new supply will also allow for the potential installation of new electric charging points in several car parks within the town, crucial to supporting future business and tourism.

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 and 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 which will start on October 3.

Cllr Keith Little, Cumbria County Council’s cabinet member for highways and transport, said: “Our plans for the brand new 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 to ensure engineers can work safely and complete the work as quickly as possible.

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.”

Electricity North West is also engaging with local businesses and is holding a drop-in session on Thursday, September 22, from 2-8pm at The Ladyholme Centre on Lake Road where anyone can come along for more information about the project.

Information packs are also being produced and locals and businesses along the route will also receive updates on the project, any possible changes and when and where Electricity North West engineers will be in the area.