UK Power Networks project updates
Find out about the status and location of works on the project website which is regularly updated.
A major project by UK Power Networks (UKPN) to replace ageing underground flat flexible electrical cables between Malden Rushett and Kingston is underway. The existing 132kV cables, which supply Kingston town centre, are outdated and at the end of their life. They are being replaced with six new cables – three to replace the original supply and three to meet growing demand. The project started in September 2025 and is scheduled to complete by January 2027.
The 10km route runs from Henry Macaulay Avenue substation in Kingston to Fairoak Lane substation in Malden Rushett.
The old cables will be decommissioned and left in place, as recovery isn’t cost-effective. Most homes use a single-phase supply, but businesses rely on three-phase – hence the need for three cables per phase (red, blue, yellow).
Contractor JSM Group will have four teams working across the route, aiming to minimise disruption by scheduling works during quieter periods. Concrete curing requirements mean roadworks may appear inactive for up to three days.
Programme of works
UKPN has a project webpage which is regularly updated and includes frequently asked questions. UKPN are using advance warning signs on roads and will write to residents and councillors with further details before work is due to start in each new area. To work safely, the contractor is implementing lane closures and temporary traffic lights around the area they are working in. This enables traffic flow around the works. Short trenches to lay pipework (ducts) are being excavated. This work is expected to conclude in November 2026. From mid-September 2026 the joint bay works start. This involves open excavations at intervals along the route to pull the new cables into position and connect them to the electricity network.
Additionally, you can monitor roadworks in your area on a live map online. Visit Causeway one.network website. Type in your address or zoom in to see what roadworks are happening nearby. Click a roadworks icon to see its type, status, and traffic impact.
Communication
The UKPN project team has committed to ongoing consultation and communication throughout the project. They will write to residents with further details before work is due to start in each new area and organise meetings and drop-ins for residents and businesses.
Works will cause some disruption, particularly along Hook Road, the A243 Leatherhead Road between Bridge Road roundabout and the Rushett Lane/Fairoak Lane crossroads. UKPN and JSM are doing their best to minimise impact and keep everyone informed. We recommend residents check the UKPN project webpage and Causeway one network website to check for updates and how the works may affect your journey.
It’s a vital project, and we can all help by understanding, staying flexible and making alternative arrangements where possible while work is underway in our area.
If you have any questions, please contact UK Power Networks customer care team on 0800 028 4587 Monday to Friday 8:30am – 5pm, or care@ukpowernetworks.co.uk. Alternatively, please contact JSM by calling 0800 035 0708 or emailing Chess-Kings@JSMGROUP.COM
