ELECTRICAL infrastructure in Reading is being 'future-proofed' as part of an £8m upgrade.

Homes and businesses in central parts of the town with benefit from the project, which is being carried out by Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN).

Work will involve replacing nearly four kilometres of underground cable along the River Thames, which has reached the end of its working life.

Miles Crossley, construction manager, said: “Reading is a thriving town and this programme of works will strengthen its existing power supply, while also allowing for future commercial and residential connections.

“As always, SSEN aims to minimise disruption, while maximising the safety of our colleagues and our customers who may be in the vicinity of this project.

"For the duration of the works, SSEN will be available to address any questions raised by the community, so that all parties involved are able to influence any possible impact these works may have.”

Letter drops will be carried out to homes and businesses to provide updates at different stages of the project.