Local MSP Graeme Dey has today (Wed) opened SSEPD's Arbroath depot following a £400,000 refurbishment.
The Peasiehill Road was previously used as a storage facility for electrical equipment but was identified as an imvestment opportunity when it became clear there was a need to base engineers more widely across the SSEPD distribution region in the north of Scotland.
Twent five employees from acorss Angus will be based at the depot, including SSEPD’s Apprentice of the Year, Mark Jamieson. The depot also has space to accommodate additional members of staff in anticipation of future requirements.
The refurbishment began in February 2013 with local Dundee-based contractor Hensons carrying out the majority of work. The building has new energy efficient lighting, air conditioning and toilets, open plan office space and the re-insulation of all external walls.
In the event of a power cut in the local area, engineers now based from Arbroath will be able to attend the fault quicker, meaning a faster restoration time for the customers affected.
SSEPD’s Tayside Operations Manager, Mark Macdonald said: “This refurbishment will bring a number of benefits to the local community with local employment and faster restoration times in the event of a fault.
"The depot in Arbroath has been equipped with the latest energy efficient technology and the additional space gives us the scope to expand further in the future. The investment ultimately means we can be on hand for our customers needs and confirms our commitment to the Angus area. “
Graeme Dey MSP for Angus South commented: “I very much welcome SSEPD making this commitment to Angus and Arbroath. I am sure my constituents will also be pleased to have these engineers closer at hand and therefore better able to respond quickly to any faults that arise. It’s good that the 40th anniversary of the depot in Peasiehill Road being established has been marked by this refurbishment and the return of an active presence to the area.’’