Residents from throughout the area descended on Little Common today to witness two abnormal loads pass through the town.
Almost 24 hours later than planned, the transformers, which were being moved from Shoreham Port to Ninfield, brought the area to a standstill as the main Little Common Roundabout on the A259 was closed to allow the two vehicles to pass.
The delivery is crucial for the UK electricity market. The Ninfield substation helps to bring power to thousands of homes and businesses across the region. It also serves as a key asset for the electrical connection between England and France, ensuring the UK has access to a broad and stable energy supply. Amidst rising energy prices, keeping the power grid in the best possible condition is more important than ever.
A police escort accompanied the convoy, which weighed more than 300 tonnes, on its journey which included the construction of temporary bridges to support the equipment’s weight and temporary closure of a section of the A27 between Ashcombe roundabout and Southerham roundabout.
The load carefully made its way along the A259 before negotiating the roundabout, coming into very close contact with scaffolding on a nearby building. It eventually arrived at its final location around 5pm.
Photos: Derek Canty.
