Northern Powergrid urges safety among Tour de Yorkshire spectators

Northern Powergrid is urging spectators attending the Tour de Yorkshire to stay safe around its electricity network during the three-day cycle race.

The company, which is responsible for running the region’s electricity network, has been checking its infrastructure ahead of the sporting event over the last several months, and has also been working closely with the race organisers, local councils and Police to help the Tour de Yorkshire be a success.

Furthermore, Northern Powergrid, which supplies electricity to more than 3.9 million homes and businesses across the North East, Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire, has sponsored the ‘Tour Makers’ vest for the volunteers who will support the event.

Northern Powergrid is also providing two of its customer support vehicles on all three days. They will be staffed by 12 employee volunteers from Northern Powergrid who will ensure the ‘Tour Makers’ have a place to rest and can get a hot drink in between their duties.

Rod Gardner, Northern Powergrid’s head of network operations, said: “This is a prestigious event for Yorkshire and we have being working hard over the past five months to support preparations for it. We have used our extensive experience gained from supporting the Tour de France last year to work with the race organisers, Police, local authorities, and other agencies to help ensure this inaugural Tour de Yorkshire event runs safely and smoothly.

“As part of our preparations we have checked all of our equipment including poles and substations that are close to the route. We have also postponed any planned work in the race areas to prevent disruption to local communities and race routes or those participating in the event.

“Whilst we aren’t expecting any issues during the event, we have robust contingency plans in place and we have our team ready so we can respond should we experience any issues. By taking this proactive approach, and working in partnership with other key stakeholders, we can help ensure power supplies are protected as this exciting race takes place in our region.”

Gary Verity, chief executive of Welcome, added: “Northern Powergrid has used its experience to contribute to the extensive planning that takes place behind the scenes for a major event like this. We are grateful for their support and commitment to help us ensure that Yorkshire is ready to deliver this inaugural race and it’s enjoyed by everyone.”

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