In August, Greg contacted the Chief Executive of UK Power Networks, Basil Scarsella, to ask for urgent action after local residents and representatives from Lamberhurst Parish Council came to see him at one of his advice surgeries to raise concerns about ongoing and frequent power cuts in Lamberhurst Down. In June 2017, residents of Lamberhurst Down experienced at least 8 power cuts – some of which lasted a number of hours.
The power cuts were caused by a faulty underground cable running through the grounds of Scotney Castle and although it had been agreed that a new power cable would be installed, archaeological works need to be undertaken beforehand which means that the works are unlikely to be completed until the summer of 2018.
The Chief Executive of UK Power Networks agreed to install an additional cable outside the castle which should provide a fast and reliable back-up if the main cable fails.
UK Power Networks has just confirmed with Greg that this work is now completed.
Greg commented:
"I am delighted that UK Power Networks has resolved this issue so quickly. They have told me that the majority of residents have now been separated from the cable that was causing the problem and which runs through the grounds of Scotney castle. For those residents that still rely on this cable, they have added automatic switches which means that a faulty section can be isolated and bypassed ensuring the electricity supply can be quickly restored.
"Good progress is also being made to full replace the cable running through the grounds of Scotney Castle and UK Power Networks has told me that this work should be completed by next summer."