Home   Medway   News   Article

Fluid leak in Medway delays 428-ton load

The planned route of the 428-ton transformer. Graphic: James Norris
The planned route of the 428-ton transformer. Graphic: James Norris

A lorry carrying a 428-ton transformer from Medway to Sittingbourne was delayed after one of its hydraulic hoses failed.

The huge load was being transported from Chatham Docks to the National Grid substation in Kemsley near Sittingbourne on Friday night.

There was also a fluid spill from the vehicle.

Police were escorting the lorry down Yokosuka Way in Gillingham, which had been closed to other traffic, at around 11pm.

A spokesman for the police said: "One of the lorry's hydraulic hoses failed, resulting in a small amount of fluid spilling onto the road.

"A new hose had to be fitted and the road cleaned to ensure it was safe before that section of road could be reopened.

"The incident lasted about 45 minutes."

The lorry was accompanied all the way to Sittingbourne by police, as it can only travel between 10mph and 14mph. No traffic was allowed to pass the load during the journey.

A second transformer will take the same route from Medway to Sittingbourne this Friday.

Close This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.Learn More