Strathfield cable project

Project overview

Ausgrid is constructing a new cable route between Ausgrid’s substation on Lloyd George Avenue, Burwood and Ismay Reserve, Homebush. 

These facilities are connected by existing fluid-filled underground 132kV sub-transmission cables that run between the two sites. The cables are approximately 50 years old and are nearing the end of their serviceable life. 

We are replacing the existing cables with new 132kV underground cables and conduits (plastic pipes), bypassing the cable transition point in Columbia Lane.

Additionally, two new transmission poles have been installed at Ismay Reserve. In consultation with Strathfield Council, Ausgrid has organised for a mural to be painted on the two new poles. This project is part of a program to replace fluid-filled cables across our network.
 

Planning cable projects

There are several factors to consider when planning cable routes. These include: 

• cost (minimising the impact on electricity bills)
• minimising community and traffic impacts
• avoiding existing utility services on roads
• ground conditions
• environmental and heritage
• impacts technical feasibility.

Community engagement

You are welcome to contact us with any enquiries via phone on 1800 604 765 (free call) or by email majorprojects@ausgrid.com.au. Community feedback helps us identify potential issues and address them in our construction plans to minimise impacts.

Environmental assessment

Under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, Ausgrid is the nominated determining authority for assessing and approving works for the Strathfield cable project.

What to expect during construction

This project will involve installing the new cable through the streets between Burwood and Homebush. Retiring the existing cable between the substations would require work at various locations along the cable route and at the substations. 

This work will involve: 

• Installing new poles in the reserve at 20 Parramatta Rd
• Digging trenches in roads to lay conduits (plastic pipes) to accommodate the new cable.
• Backfilling trenches and temporary resurfacing of impacted areas (trenching and temporary resurfacing takes about three days outside each property, depending on ground and weather conditions).
• Excavating underground joint bays at various locations along the cable route.
• Feeding in and joining sections of cable at the joint bay locations
• Permanently restoring impacted areas, in consultation with Council and Transport for NSW, once the overall project is complete.

Retiring the existing cables will include: 

• Excavating existing joint bays along the cable route.
• Removing cable equipment.
• Disconnecting the cables.
• Removing some overhead wires and 3 poles 

As with any construction site, there will be some impacts, including noise and dust. Ausgrid will make every effort to keep this to a minimum and will finish the work as quickly as possible. There will be temporary disruptions to traffic, access, and parking along the cable route during construction. We will make every effort to keep these to a minimum. Next Steps

Strathfield cable project documents