The transformer being lifted from the barge

Road closures are planned as a giant electricity transformer is delivered to Preston.

The 400 tonne transformer was lifted off the Ribble by specialist barge and completes its final leg of the journey from Stafford.

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The A59 at Penwortham is being closed on Sunday morning to allow for delivery – as it is being transported on a trailer more than 73 metres in length.

David Omer, National Grid’s project engineer said: “The delivery has been many months in the planning. Fortunately, we’ve had other transformers delivered to the substation previously, using the same method, but it is still a major operation for us and we couldn’t afford to leave anything to chance.

“We’ll be installing the new quad booster at the substation in the coming months. It will help increase the capacity of the site and will enable us to transport more energy around the country. Our substations and the network of electricity transmission lines play a vital part in keeping electricity flowing and keeping the lights on.”

A crowd gathered on Friday to see the transformer lifted from the Ribble onto the bank.