Ausgrid has recently announced the preferred route for the replacement of underground cables at its Top Ryde to Wentworth Point cable project to secure the power supply across inner Sydney.
Deputy Chief Executive officer, Trevor Armstrong, said Ausgrid would continue to seek public feedback on its Top Ryde to Wentworth Point cable project, with an environmental assessment to go on exhibition later this year.
“These replacement transmission feeders will reinforce the backbone of Sydney’s power supply,” said Mr Armstrong.
“This part of the network helps deliver electricity to almost 250,000 homes and business, from Auburn to the city centre and out to Macquarie Park.
“The project will allow existing 132,000 volt transmission cables laid up to 40 years ago to be retired before they become unreliable.”
The replacement cables will connect Ausgrid’s Top Ryde and Meadowbank substations to Wentworth Point.
A number of potential routes were investigated and put to local residents and stakeholders for consideration as part of a community engagement process which began in 2013. Ausgrid also held community information sessions and a workshop to help gather feedback.
The preferred route was selected to minimise any environmental or community impact, reduce construction risk and deliver a cost-effective outcome for electricity customers.
It runs along parts of Princes St and Morrison Road before crossing over Parramatta River via the Meadowbank Rail Bridge and the new Homebush Bay Bridge.
Mr Armstrong said construction could temporarily affect access to the Meadowbank crossing.
“We are seeking more feedback from councils and the community before finalising construction plans, including a survey on access to the old Meadowbank Rail bridge,” he said.