A 15-week project to improve the power network in Malton as demand grows has started this week.

Northern Powergrid is reinforcing the power network across the town to enable future growth and expansion.

The electricity distributor is replacing 6km of underground high voltage cables and installing two new substations to help keep Malton powered for years to come.

The work will also help to meet future increases in demand for power as the town develops and more customers invest in electric vehicles, solar panel and heat pumps.

Amanda White, customer service manager for the North Yorkshire Region, said: “The reinforcement work we’re doing in Malton is great news for local people, helping futureproof the network that powers their homes and businesses.

“Our work is vital as we race to net zero and more people swap their cars for electric vehicles and electrified heating.

“We’ve already notified our customers directly impacted by the work and we have advance notices in place along the route.

“There will be some disruption to commuters and we’re installing two-way lights help keep the traffic flowing, but we would ask drivers to plan extra time into their journeys.”

The improvement works, which are planned to start today (Wednesday), are expected to last around 15 weeks and will be carried out by Northern Powergrid’s specialist contractor O’Connor Utilities, with assistance from the electricity distributor’s local workforce.

Teams will be digging along the B1248 York Road as well as Showfield Lane, Pasture Lane, Broughton Road junction with Newbiggin, The Mount and Yorkersgate.

People can also find out more about this investment work by contacting the company’s customer care team on 0800 011 3332. The network operator is also available 24/7 on Facebook and Twitter.

Northern Powergrid said it was not expecting anyone’s power supply to be disrupted during this work but if you, or someone you know, may need extra support during a power cut due to medical needs or personal circumstances, you can find out more about the company’s free Priority Services Membership by visiting northernpowergrid.com/care or by calling 0800 169 2996.