Nick calls for power interruption to be postponed

Arundel & South Downs MP Nick Herbert has called for a proposed seven hour interruption to the electricity supply at Arundel on Wednesday (23 March) to be postponed.

 The MP was contacted by local traders who are concerned that cutting off power to the town will effectively close Arundel down for the day.

Jonathan Brantigan, the proprietor of Pallant's and Deputy Chairman of the Arundel Chamber of Commerce, has pointed out that "the planned works follow in a long line of similar works that have had a detrimental effect on the town - for example, gas repairs in the last two years resulting in effective closure of the town centre and also repairs to the A27 bridge at Arundel train station."

In an urgent letter to Ian Marchant, Chief Executive of Scottish and Southern Energy, Mr Herbert writes that traders in Arundel are "understandably concerned that such a protracted interruption will effectively shut down their businesses for the entire day when they can ill afford it."  He adds that "there are also concerns that they have not been given sufficient notice of the works."

There is also concern that residents may be unaware of the power cut and will have intruder alarm, refrigerators and other electrical appliances which will be affected.

Nick Herbert commented: "I have written to the Chief Executive of Scottish and Southern Energy to draw their attention to the many concerns that I have received from businesses and residents in Arundel about this planned power cut.

"I understand that essential maintenance must take place, but I hope that the company will appreciate the concern and consider postponing these works so that less disruptive arrangements can be made."

Ends

Notes for Editors

1. A copy of Nick Herbert MP's letter to Ian Marchant can be viewed here.