Replacement supergrid transformer arriving at Cellarhead substation

• Large supergrid transformer delivery will be made to Cellarhead substation on Monday 2 June under police escort
• Delivery part of routine maintenance and upgrades to essential equipment
• Transformers help to change the voltage of electricity so that it can be supplied safely to homes and businesses.
   

National Grid is delivering a large supergrid transformer to Cellarhead substation in Staffordshire as part of essential upgrades at the site to ensure safe and reliable energy supplies in the region into the future.

It will replace an existing transformer that is reaching the end of its operational life, as part of routine maintenance work – this is not directly related to the plans to expand the substation which were recently presented to members of the public.

Transformers are vital high voltage devices which boost substations’ capacity and resilience, stepping voltage up or down so electricity can be efficiently transmitted from power generators and safely distributed to homes and businesses via regional networks.

This delivery is being managed by specialists, Allelys Heavy Haulage, and will require a full police escort to manage traffic and ensure safety.  

The route has been carefully planned with highway authorities and the police to minimise disruption. The transformer will be transported on a large specialist vehicle from Sundon, near Luton, to Uttoxeter on Sunday 1 June 2025 via the M1 and A50.

On Monday 2 June 2025 it will travel from Uttoxeter along the A50, A520 Weston Road and through Werrington along the A52 and up Rownall Road to access the substation.

Residents living along Cellarhead Road and Rownall Road have been contacted and requested to keep these roads clear of vehicles between 12:00pm-1.30pm so the transporter convoy can safely access the substation.

Jake Roche, Project Manager at National Grid, said: “We have worked closely with local authorities, relevant organisations and our specialist haulage contractor to carefully plan
the route and timings to minimise disruption to local people and traffic where possible.

“We appreciate the patience and cooperation of the local community as we carry out our essential work which is essential to ensure the resilience of our energy network. We can confirm that our activity will not affect local electricity supplies, and any noise will be kept to a minimum.”

Once on site, the new transformer will be moved into position, installed and commissioned. The redundant equipment will be dismantled and removed in smaller sections which will be fully recycled.

Local residents can also get in touch with the project team by emailing [email protected] or calling 0800 138 5408 (Monday – Friday, 9:00am to 5:30pm).