It is totally unacceptable that a week after storm Arwen, residents of my constituency do not have electricity. I am appalled that my office has been told today that the earliest power will be restored to properties in High Handenhold and Blackhouse is 8th December.
Northern Powergrid’s response has been sluggish, and their communications woeful. My constituents have repeatedly told to access information via Northern Powergrid website, but it is clear that this system is useless.
The lack of clear information has made an extremely difficult situation far more stressful than it needed to be, and prevented families from being able to respond in a timely fashion.
Northern Power have confirmed their offer of financial support to those of my constituents who are affected. They will fund temporary accommodation, subsistence and kennels/catteries for families – this can be arranged by calling 105.
The properties affected in my constituency are not remote or inaccessible, and I can see no reason why generators should not be brought in to provide them with power. I call on Northern Powergrid to install these as a matter of urgency.
It is vital that lessons are learnt from this incident, and that in future all bodies work together to support local people. I will be compiling a report based on the experience of my constituents, and would ask that everyone who has been affected emails me at [email protected] when they are in a position to do so.