Energy bosses are preparing to unveil £450,000 plans to improve Otley’s electricity supply – and end a series of recent power cuts.

Northern Powergrid said it had already planned the work for this year, but is speeding it up “as a matter of urgency” following the latest loss of power on January 11, which affected 2,941 homes.

Details of the scheme are due to be shown at a public consultation event being arranged for February. It will involve upgrading the 11,000 volt underground cable network.

In a letter to MP Greg Mulholland (Lib Dem, Leeds North West), who has been calling for action to end the power cuts that stretch back to October, Northern Powergrid’s chief executive Phil Jones said: “I appreciate that the further power cut will have raised additional concerns and so we will write to all customers to apologise, explain the recent events, and outline our forthcoming investment in Otley.

"We will also find a local venue to hold an information event in the coming weeks so that anyone who wishes to can meet with us face to face, talk to us about their concerns and have the opportunity to see our plans in more detail.