SP Energy Networks (SPEN) is the licensed Transmission Owner responsible for the transmission of electricity in central and southern Scotland. Our role is to maintain, operate and invest in our network in turn providing a safe, reliable and economic service for both residents and business alike.
Our ongoing investment and modernisation strategy ensures this service is delivered effectively and as part of this overall programme we are due to commence reconductoring (replacement of existing overhead cables) on the overhead line running between Portabello Substation and Dalkeith Substation which is situated near to Smeaton in East Lothian Council Area. A significant section of the work will take place within Ward 17 Portobello and Craigmillar.
Our Stakeholder Engagement Strategy is an important aspect of any project as we liaise with the local community in an effort to inform them of any proposed activity which may affect them. Part of this ongoing process is to provide information to the local elected members and community councils along with the wider community as apporopriate.
The work will involve the contractors working at height as they replace the ageing conductors which are original (1969). You will be aware that some of the Transmission Towers (pylons) on this route are situated in close proximity to both housing and other important infrastructure such as roads and public paths.
All work undertaken will be carried out in a safe manner with the contractors ensuring that residents and businesses are made aware of planned activity prior to starting work at the different stages and locations involved. Clear signage will be displayed around our safe working areas.
To complete certain sections of the work safely, Traffic Management measures will at times be necessary. This will be carried out under the direction and agreement of Edinburgh City Council Roads Department and will again involve clear signage (advanced warning where necessary) along with temporary traffic lights at times, depending on the specific work being carried out.
It is anticipated that preparatory work such as cutting back vegetation and transmission tower (pylon) general inspection and maintenance will commence late February 2016 with the actual conductor replacement starting in June 2016. The work is due to be completed during the fourth quarter of 2016.
I would like to take the opportunity to apologise in advance for any inconvenience caused to the local community and also to ensure you that all parties involved in the work will do the utmost to keep disruption to a minimum and complete the work as quickly and safely as possible.
Thank you for your ongoing support for SPEN, should you require any further information please contact Karen MacGregor or Colin Wylie by e mail or phone on 0141 614 3231 or 07516 461129.
Colin Wylie
Community Liaison Officer
SP Energy Networks (SPEN)
Ochil House
10 Technology Avenue
Blantyre
G720HT
01416143231
07808 000148