No images? Click here In this edition of the Hinkley Connection Project newsletter: our work to build T-pylons in Portbury Wharf Nature Reserve, how we've helped 200 people on low incomes to get back on their bikes, delivering science and technology workshops for 1,500 local school children, and what's happening next in your area. We also introduce you to Hinkley the polecat - safe and sound in a new home after a being rescued at one of our work sites. Two of the 68 T-pylons to be constructed along the northern section of the Hinkley Connection Project between Sandford and Portbury have been erected in Portbury Wharf Nature Reserve. The two T-pylons in the reserve, one near the reserve entrance from Sheepway and one next to Wharf Lane, were lifted into place by crane in three sections, and fixed to the foundations in the ground at the end of September. The T-pylons in the reserve were the first to be built in this section to avoid disturbing wintering birds and other wildlife throughout the winter. T-pylon components for the remaining 66 structures are being delivered to site this autumn ready to be lifted and fitted onto foundations which are already in place. Travellers along the M5 can now see the new structures near Gordano Services, as well as just south of Junction 21 near Loxton. All 95 new pylons between Sandford and Avonmouth - a mix of traditional lattice towers and T-pylons - are on schedule to be completed, including hanging of the conductors (or wires), by the end of 2023. Somerset and Bristol-based cycling charity, Life Cycle, has been awarded a £10,000 grant by National Grid to increase access to cycling for people on a low income. The charity provides free vouchers so people can buy refurbished bikes, safety equipment and bike servicing. 19-year-old Aidan, who lives in supported accommodation to be close to his terminally ill father, has been able to get back on the road after his bike was damaged by vandals. Aidan wanted to use his bike to attend job interviews and explore the surrounding countryside. Aidan said, “The voucher has paid for a really good set of lights and for me to be able to repair my bike. I would never have been able to afford any of it. I feel really lucky." Huda Wajih, Development Lead at Life Cycle UK said, “Due to the cost of living crisis, rising fuel prices, and a post COVID boom in cycling, we had a huge demand for this project. Thanks to National Grid, we were able to help 218 people on low income, including Ukrainian refugees, young people not in education, training or work, and people from ethnic minorities." National Grid has partnered with STEMworks, a not-for-profit organisation based in Gloucestershire, to providing science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) workshops for KS1 and KS2 children in schools along the Hinkley Connection Project route. The team have visited 34 schools and delivered 61 workshops to benefit over 1,500 children. The interactive sessions have gone down well with the schools. “The children absolutely loved it and were so engaged”, commented Sidcot Junior School. The children of Pawlett Primary School Academy were equally impressed, “excellent workshop - the children absolutely loved it thank you”. Claire Lyes, Director of STEMworks, said: “With the support of National Grid, we are providing engaging and interactive workshops to children as young as 4 years old. We are igniting a passion for STEM subjects that will hopefully resonate with these pupils as they progress through school and into the world of work." What's happening near you?We keep dedicated pages on the project website up to date so you can find out more about works near you. On the map to the right you can see your location as it's labelled on the 'In Your Area' section where you'll find updates on current activity and a summary of what's coming up. Over the summer, J Murphy and Sons have been working with Willow Gardens, a new community project in Portishead which is being developed on a piece of unused ground in the town centre. Willow Gardens aims to connect people in the local area; encouraging interactions between people from different generations and cultures whilst building a garden and growing vegetables for the whole community to enjoy. J Murphy and Sons, who have been working in nearby Portbury Wharf Nature Reserve, donated a shipping container, tools and PPE to help out. The team have also donated waste timber which has been used to build raised beds and bug houses. Lindsay from Willow Gardens said, “The container in particular will be a huge asset for all who work in the garden, it will not only give us storage but also a place to build community and give people a place to belong.” On Monday 3 of October and Thursday 6 of October, residents and landowners from around Tickenham and Portishead were invited to learn more about National Grid’s work to build new T-pylons and remove older lattice pylons in their communities at two public information events. Over 70 people were welcomed to the events in Tickenham Village Hall and the Folk Hall, Portishead. To ensure as many people as possible had the opportunity to attend to learn more about what we’re up to in their area, postcards were sent to over 4,500 residents, landowners, and businesses inviting them to come along. Gillian Burnell, Project Communications Manager for National Grid who was part of the Hinkley team at both events commented, "At every step of the Hinkley Connection Project we aim to keep local communities and landowners informed of our activities. We were pleased to welcome residents and landowners and answer their questions." An injured polecat found by our contractor, Morrison Energy Services, in September last year has found a new home and been given a new name...Hinkley! The polecat was found in a tower foundation excavation site and was in need of medical attention. Members of the project team reacted quickly and sought help and guidance from the Secret World Wildlife Rescue Centre in Huntspill. The veterinary staff provided a safe home for the polecat while he was recovering and began the search for its owner. After being unable to find the owner, a Secret World volunteer and experienced owner of ferrets and polecats, gave the lost polecat a new home. Read more about Hinkley's journey on the ITV News website. National Grid Electricity Distribution, formerly known as Western Power Distribution, is now the regional electricity distribution division of National Grid. National Grid has worked closely with WPD on every stage of the Hinkley Connection Project. Our teams will continue to work together to deliver the construction of T-pylons, the undergrounding of cables, and the connection and energisation of substations along the route line – connecting 6 million homes and businesses to low carbon energy. Over the coming months, National Grid will begin rebranding the former WPD’s vans, clothing and signage. You’ll start to notice our colleagues at WPD wearing their new National Grid workwear, aside from what you can see, there will be no changes that will impact the ways customers can contact the company. |