Rochdale investment

We're delivering the largest ever investment in the North West’s power network, investing over £1bn between 2023 and 2028 – including a £33m programme of key projects across Lancashire.

Traffic management in place 18 August: Temporary traffic lights will be in place between Park Road to March Street before moving on to Belfield Road, Whitworth Road and Gale Street to allow our engineers to work safely.

We're committed to maintaining and improving the network through our capital investment programme

Engineers have commenced work which will see £1.9m worth of upgrades carried out on the East Lancashire power network.

As part of our capital investment programme, 3km of underground electricity cables will be replaced between substations in Belfield and Gale in Rochdale and an interconnector installed.

The work taking place on the 33,000-volt network will future-proof the network across Rochdale whilst also enhancing reliability, resilience and enabling more low carbon technologies like heat pumps and electric vehicle charging.

The existing cables that have been in place since the 1950's, pose a risk of oil leakage near watercourses. This project supports our commitment to removing oil-filled assets from the network by 2040 and ensures secure interconnection between substations.

Once complete, thousands of homes and businesses are expected to benefit from the new and improved infrastructure which will see older, oil filled cables replaced with more modern cables.

This £1.9m investment will significantly enhance the reliability and environmental performance of Rochdale’s electricity infrastructure and eliminate oil leakage risks
The project supports our commitment to reinforcing the network and futureproofing for increased demand from low carbon technologies
We are working closely with Rochdale Council to coordinate works and minimise disruption
Road closures and diversions may be necessary but will be carefully planned and communicated in advance in collaboration with local authorities
We are committed to keeping residents, businesses, and commuters informed every step of the way.

Engineers started work on Monday 18 August 2025 and temporary traffic lights will be in place to keep our engineers safe between Park Road to March Street before moving on to Belfield Road, Whitworth Road and Gale Street.

We’re working closely with Rochdale Council to ensure access for businesses and residents is maintained throughout the works.

We will initially lay underground ducts to house the cables before returning later in the year to pull the cable into place and connect them to the network.

Work is expected to last 10 months, all work has been agreed with the local authorities and we've hand delivered letters to customers with details of any traffic management.

Frequently asked questions

Explore our FAQs

What Is an Interconnector?

An interconnector is a high-voltage cable that links two parts of the electricity network. It allows electricity to flow between areas, helping balance supply and demand and improving overall grid performance.

How It Works

Electricity is generated from various sources, including renewables.
The interconnector transfers electricity between Belfield and Gale, depending on where it’s needed most.
Smart systems manage the flow to ensure efficiency and stability.

Why It Matters for Rochdale

Improved Reliability
Reduces the risk of power cuts by allowing electricity to be shared between areas.
Supports Growth
Enables future housing, business, and infrastructure developments by increasing network capacity.
Cleaner Energy
Helps integrate more renewable energy into the local grid.
Cost Efficiency
Reduces the need for expensive upgrades elsewhere by making better use of existing infrastructure.