DRIVERS are warned of road closures and traffic disruption as new underground electric cables are installed in Knutsford.

The project will provide more rapid electric vehicle charging points for owners of electrical and hybrid vehicles at Knutsford services.

The new cables are being fitted by SP Energy Networks, the owner and operator of the region’s electricity network, as part of its Green Recovery Investment Project.

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It marks an important step in meeting net zero, the north west’s goal to be the UK’s first net zero region by 2040.

This will see more than £60m invested in new electricity connections to accelerate the country’s transition to support cleaner, green journeys.

It is hoped the extra charging points will encourage more drivers to switch to electric vehicles.

To minimise disruption to residents and shoppers, the work will be completed in sections.

Temporary traffic lights will be in place during various stages of the work.

Roadworks start on Monday, August 15.

Adams Hill, Toft Road will be closed on Sundays from August 21 until September 11.

King Edward Road will have single lane closures from September 4 to October 30.

Bexton Road will be shut on Sundays from September 4 to October 30.

Lilac Avenue, Acacia Avenue, Tabley Grove, Stanley Road and Gaskell Avenue will be closed at various stages between September 11 and October 9.

SP Energy Networks’ operations director Liam O’Sullivan said: “We are committed to completing this vital upgrade work with as minimal disruption for customers as possible.

“We’d like to thank residents in advance for their patience and apologise for any inconvenience caused.

“Our work is crucial in creating new electrical capacity to support the installation of rapid EV chargers.

“As more and more people move to electric and hybrid vehicles, easy access to charging facilities will be increasingly important.

“We’re pleased to be making a positive contribution in helping the region achieve its goals for net zero and low carbon travel.”

Diversions will be put in place and clearly signposted and access to homes and businesses will be maintained at all times during the closures.

All the work being undertaken, along with the associated traffic management plans, has been approved by Cheshire East Council.

Residents with questions can contact the project on 0800 860 6269 between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday or email SPM-GreenRecovery@spenergynetworks.co.uk