NEW 33,000-volt substation is going to be installed as a part of Electricity North West’s £7m South Manchester Enterprise Zone project.
The new substation, housing two 40-tonne electricity transformers, will almost double network capacity in the area.
Electricity North West will also install 30km of new underground electricity cables, with multiple cables along a 5km route between Styal Lane and Thorley Lane to power the rapidly expanding Airport City Manchester and surrounding areas.
“We’re supporting the region’s aims to meet a net-zero commitment by 2038, and that means we’re investing in the power network now as we all move away from fossil fuels and use more sustainably-generated electricity”, Ian Greenwood, Electricity North West project manager, said.
“Airport City is an exciting project for not only Manchester but the whole region. As more businesses come to the area, there will only be an increase in demand for power.
“That’s why we are proactively installing a new substation, massively increasing capacity on the power network in the area. The new substation will ensure that customers will continue to receive the power they need today and in the future.”
Work is underway and the scheme will improve power supply to thousands of homes and businesses in the local area.
The full traffic management programme has been worked on will be agreed with Manchester City Council.
Jonathan Haigh, managing director of MAG Property and Airport City JV Partner, added: “Investment in this new infrastructure is essential to facilitate the delivery of our ambitious landmark £1 billion Airport City development, and unlocking the potential to bring 20,000 new jobs to the region over 10-15 years.
“With works set to commence imminently on approved plans for a new £6 million pedestrian bridge, hotel development and office development, we have worked collaboratively with Electricity North West and other stakeholders to ensure the power demands of occupiers are met – both in the short term and in the longer term as Greater Manchester progresses towards its aim of becoming carbon neutral and a healthier, cleaner and greener city-region.”
