A21 gridlock after power cable drama

Concerned residents called UK Power Networks just before 8am after sparks were seen to be coming from one of the cables.

Engineers were sent to the scene, closing the road and cutting power to 13 properties while emergency work was carried out.

A number of trees had to be felled to make the area safe.

Meanwhile motorists were subject to lengthy delays as traffic was diverted away from the scene, with the help of Sussex Police.

Motorist Camilla Corner turned left at Marley Lane to join the A21 heading north, but was soon forced to turn around because of the ‘godawful’ traffic.

Camilla, from Battle, said: “It was stretched as far as the eye could see.

“So after a while I just turned around in someone’s driveway and went back down the A21.

“There was a surprising amount of traffic.”

A spokesperson from UK Power Networks said engineers worked as quickly as they could and apologised for the delays.

She said: “UK Power Networks engineers worked as quickly and safely as possible to repair an overhead electricity line in the Whatlington area of Battle on Monday.

“The problem was reported at 7.56am and at 9.05am, supplies to 13 customers had to be isolated to allow work to be carried out.

“All had power restored by 1.30pm.

“We appreciate how difficult it can be without power and would like to apologise for the inconvenience caused by this incident.”