Restoring Hereford's heritage

Western Power Distribution (WPD), is investing £120,000 to update its power network in Hereford – and to restore views of the city’s historic walls.

WPD is committed to investing in its network to further improve supply reliability and customer service levels, and this latest initiative, which involves relocating a substation that has reached the end of its working life, is set to start on March 29.

Currently situated in front of the walls, which are a scheduled historic ancient monument, the substation will be rebuilt on Kyrle Street, enabling visitors and residents alike to enjoy unimpeded views. New cables will also be installed to connect the substation to the electricity network.

“Apart from the obvious visual benefits, this investment will help to safeguard electricity supplies for our customers in the region for years to come by improving the infrastructure and security of our network,” said John Goode, WPD’s Team Manager for the area.

As a result of the initiative, the eastbound route through Bath Street will be closed from March 29 for four weeks while the cables are being installed, with signed diversions in place. The westbound route through Bath Street will remain open.

“While this work is being undertaken, we will aim to keep any disruption to an absolute minimum. We’ve been speaking with Hereford City Council and the Highways Agency to agree on a cable route and road diversions which will create the least disruption for traffic flow in the area,” said John.

“The work has also been scheduled during the Easter holidays when traffic is expected to be lighter, and we will work seven days a week to ensure it is completed as quickly as possible.”