Published on:
28
December 2020
Clackmannanshire Council is working with SP Energy Networks to provide support for residents in Tillicoultry following a power cut in the village on Christmas Eve.
Power was restored by midnight on Christmas Eve to all affected properties, and since then the Council and SP Energy Networks have been working together to resolve any outstanding issues caused by the fault.
Teams of electricians and gas engineers from SPEN were supported by the Council’s own team of engineers and electricians along with Council workers from neighbouring local authorities including Falkirk, Stirling and East Lothian Councils. They worked throughout the festive period to ensure as many affected residents as possible had heating and hot water.
Residents whose repairs have been more complex, have been offered portable heaters or alternative hotel accommodation.
Council workers are continuing to support the most vulnerable residents who are affected.
Clackmannanshire Council leader, Councillor Ellen Forson, said:
"This was the worst possible time of the year for the residents of Tillicoultry to be affected by this power cut.
"When I visited Tillicoultry on Christmas Day and on Boxing Day, I was impressed by the effort to resolve the issues.
"The team from SP Energy Networks came from all over central Scotland to assist, supported not by our council staff but also those from neighbouring local authorities who gave up precious time with their own families to help our residents. Despite the difficult and challenging circumstances, morale was high with the workers I spoke to at the response co-ordination centre.
"The sheer volume of work that has been carried out to get electricity and heating back to residents as quickly as possible has been incredible and I would like to thank all the workers involved. Their efforts are very much appreciated not only by me but I am sure from all the residents who have been affected."
Guy Jefferson, SPEN Customer Service Director, said:
"We are continuing to work in the village with Clackmannanshire Council to resolve any outstanding issues caused by the fault and are keeping the community uo-to-date as our work progresses
"We would like to thank our customers for their continued patience and offer our sincere apologies to all those affected by the power cut."
SPEN representatives are now focussing on visiting properties to assess any damaged appliances and replace or repair them.
The SPEN Information point with mobile phone charge points, free hot food and drinks is available for affected residents at Murray Square.