Chanter Street, Berrigan - Undergrounding of Overhead Power

Project typeMain Street Upgrades
Project value$1.1 million
Project scheduleIncomplete
Contractor nameGPE HV Pty Ltd

Project Update 25 June 2026

L2 conduiting works are now complete. The civil contractor is moving into the remediation phase and will be repairing affected roads, kerbs and footpaths over the next two weeks.
L2 cable installation is progressing well and remains on schedule.
The first planned power outage is scheduled for Sunday, 28 June. This outage is required to begin energising the new underground power network.
Following this outage, the L2 cabling contractor will continue installing cables and begin transferring individual properties to the underground power supply. These transfers will take place throughout July. Property owners may experience a short outage during their transfer and will be contacted directly by the contractor to arrange a suitable time.
A second planned outage is expected at the end of July (target date: Sunday, 26 July pending approval Essential Energy). This outage will allow the existing overhead power network to be decommissioned and the overhead wires and poles to be removed.

Thanks to additional funding for the project, we’ve been able to cover the property reconnection fee. What was originally projected at $13,500 has now been covered by Council, who are very pleased to ease the financial burden for property owners and help make the transition smoother for everyone.

We’re mindful of the importance of key local events such as the Berrigan Gold Cup and the Christmas Street Market. The contractor has been made fully aware of these events, and any disruption during this time will be kept to an absolute minimum to ensure our main street remains accessible and vibrant.

Project Overview

The Chanter Street powerline undergrounding project is a critical initiative aimed at modernizing the power infrastructure in the heart of Berrigan. This project will replace the overhead poles and wires along Chanter Street, between IGA and Jerilderie Street, with approximately 350 meters of underground power cables. The project includes the installation of five crossings that will connect to power boxes on the opposite side of the street. Additionally, conduits will be installed to property boundaries, minimizing the impact on footpath surfaces.

Project Goals

The Chanter Street powerline project serves two primary objectives:

Safety, Reliability, and Aesthetic Enhancement: The project will enhance safety, improve the reliability of power distribution, and significantly upgrade the visual appeal of the main street by transitioning to underground infrastructure. This aligns with regulatory standards and supports community-led modernization efforts.
Heritage Façade Preservation: Property owners will be able to maintain their building façades without the need for a full street power shutdown, preserving the historical character of the heritage conservation zone.

Funding and Costs

This project is majority funded by the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund (Phase 5), to a value of $590,00. Additional contributions of $290,00 from Essential Energy and $200,000 from Council are provided to fund the gap.

Construction Phases and Deliverables

The Chanter Street powerline project will be carried out in several key phases:

Stage 1 – Coordination and Planning: Stakeholders will work together to finalize project details, obtain necessary approvals, and ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards.
Stage 2 – Feasibility Studies and Design: In-depth studies will be conducted to evaluate the practicality and cost-effectiveness of the undergrounding process. Design plans will be prepared to meet technical and safety requirements.
Stage 3 – Community Consultation: Open communication with the community will ensure the project meets local needs, and financial contributions will be discussed during this stage.
Stage 4 – Procurement and Tendering: Resources, materials, and services will be procured through a transparent tendering process.
Stage 5 – Construction: The construction phase will include the removal of 350 meters of overhead powerlines and the installation of underground cables and service connections. Safety measures will be implemented to minimize disruptions and hazards during this phase.

The completion of this project will greatly enhance the safety, reliability, and aesthetic appeal of Chanter Street, fostering a more attractive and vibrant community space for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.

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