ScottishPower is investing £85,000 to improve the quality of electricity supplies in the Carstairs area.

The decision was taken following a ScottishPower survey which revealed the overhead low voltage network to be in poor condition and that the capacity of the existing transformer was being exceeded during times of maximum load.

Work has begun with the installation of a new, high capacity substation to replace electrical equipment at West Carstairs and Newhouse Court.

The undergrounding of the overhead low voltage network in Carstairs is well underway, with much of Lanark Road now receiving electricity supplies from cables.

Mechanical "moles" are being used to minimise disruption to gardens. Work has been suspended until the start of January to avoid inconvenience during the Festive season. It is due for completion by the end of February.

John Menzies, General Manager of ScottishPower's Western Region, said he hoped the work would lead to a significant improvement in the quality of supplies to the village.

"We have been in touch with individuals and the community council to see what could be done about avoiding a repeat of the supply interruptions of last winter", he said.

Mr Menzies added that the work was part of larger investments ScottishPower was making in the company's electricity network throughout central and southern Scotland.