News Detail

Scrap metal thieves may have been responsible for a blackout in Sunderland yesterday that brought commuter traffic to a standstill.

Workers from CE Electric UK – the company responsible for the electricity distribution network in the North East – say that tools, including an axe, were discovered by damaged high-voltage cables near the Alexandra Bridge.

Around 9,000 properties across Sunderland lost their electricity supply at around 16:50 yesterday evening.  

Commuters faced lengthy tailbacks while the city’s traffic lights were left without power.

Staff restored power in phases by routing it through alternative cables and power lines. By 19:00 hours, power had been returned throughout the city.

David Gill, head of customer service for CE Electric UK, said: “We are working closely with the police who are investigating the matter but early indications are that this was probably an attempt at stealing copper cable.

“If this is indeed the case, then the perpetrators are extremely lucky to have escaped with their lives or without severe electrical burns.  Others who have attempted to steal from electricity networks have not been so lucky.

“Our staff did a sterling job in restoring supplies as quickly as they did and we extremely grateful for the co-operation of the emergency services and the patience of the people of Sunderland.”

21-04-09