Traffic delays as reactor moved from Bristol to Wiltshire

The new shunt reactor will ensure electricity supplies remain secure and reliable for the local area

Traffic delays are expected as a slow-moving lorry delivers a 131-tonne shunt reactor to an electricity substation in Wiltshire.

The National Grid delivery is due to leave Avonmouth Docks near Bristol at 09:30 GMT and is expected to arrive at Melksham substation at 14:00.

The shunt reactor is over 7m (23ft) long and almost 4m (13ft) high.

It will travel on the M5, M4, A350, A4 Bath Road, B3109 Bradford Road, A365, B3353 Corsham Road to Westlands Lane.

A rolling lane and road closure will be used to manage traffic and ensure safety with motorists advised to allow additional time or use an alternative route.

Project manager for National Grid, David Shaw, said: "Local people rely on us to supply their electricity without interruption so it's important that we keep our substations and the equipment in them working effectively."

He said they are working with local councils and highways England to ensure the movement goes safely and added: "We know local people may be interested to view the display of logistics and engineering."

The route has been planned in liaison with National Highways and police.

A broadcast text service is available in real time with text messages sent if there are any changes to the times or routes.