AN energy firm has embarked on a £1 million project to modernise more than 3km of overhead power lines in the town that carry 132,000 volts of electricity, and support to tens of thousands homes and businesses.

SP Energy Networks is carrying out the refurbishment on the ageing lines which covers the major circuit that runs from Bold to Windle, serving both residential and industrial customers in and around the St Helens.

The company says "every attempt is being made to avoid disruption to the local area".

The project started in 2015 with SP Energy Networks completing site surveys and preliminary works.

The company, along with its delivery partner Iberdrola Engineering & Construction (IEC), have been working with St Helens Council and key stakeholders, with the main overhead works now scheduled to begin.

Mark Sobczak, head of 132kV Programmes for SP Energy Networks, said: “The project follows our recent investments both at Bold and in St Helens itself, and demonstrates our continued commitment to our customers and communities.

"This upgrade will ensure that the electricity network supporting St Helens will continue to operate at a high standard for decades to come.”

The overhead line circuits have been running for more than 60 years and SP say the work is essential to maintain high performance.

The circuits are being modernised using the latest materials, with the project due for completion in the summer of 2016.

A SP spokesman said: "The company is committed to keeping local residents and key stakeholders informed of the work, and every attempt is being made to avoid disruption to the local area.

"SP Energy Networks has developed a work programme that aims to not interrupt any supplies to customers during this work."