ScottishPower is currently upgrading the electricity network between Stranraer and Barrhill.

Work started on the £680k project last November and is currently replacing over 200 poles on the 18km circuit - with the new line due to be fully commissioned in the summer.

The majority of new lines will follow existing power routes with some minor deviations to avoid woods which have caused network damage in the past.

The upgrade of the line has been accelerated due to the increasing frequency of high winds and gales across of the South of Scotland which have caused significant problems to the network.

The upgrade will also incorporate modern remote control and electrical protection systems which will significantly reduce the number of faults on the line.

In many cases new remote systems will allow ScottishPower to restore electricity supplies quickly without the need to dispatch linesmen and engineers.

Aileen Breen, Project Engineer, ScottishPower said:  “We have met with Community Councils in Sandhead, Stoneykirk and Ardwell, to discuss the upgrade and we will be keeping them informed of our progress. Their assistance in the project has been very helpful and we thank them for their ongoing support during our operations”.

Media Information: Jane Holmes 0141 636 4557