NIE calls for care as contractor cuts through underground cable

Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) have again called on local contractors to take extra care when working in the vicinity of underground cables after over 430 customers were cut off in Co Down.

The incident occurred yesterday in the Armagh Road, Monaghan Street and Merchant’s Quay areas of Newry following contractor damage to the underground electricity network in the area.

Although the majority of customers were restored by 4pm, NIE Customer Relations Manager for the area, Brenda Murphy said that the damage had also caused disruption during rush hour traffic.

She added: "In the last two months there have been 13 incidences of contractor damage to the underground electricity network across Northern Ireland and with good working practices the number of faults of this sort could be radically reduced.

"It is NIE that people look to when their electricity goes off and we feel it is appropriate that the worst offenders are held up to account for the problems they cause for our customers and us.”

She advised any contractors or private developers to contact NIE on 08457 643 643 for marked up drawings of the underground electricity network before starting work.

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