Lights go out as Wrexham powercut results in business closures

The incident happened shortly after 1.30pm when the lights went out in most of the businesses along Regent Street, with Wrexham Council also reporting problems with their telephone systems, with power restored around an hour later.

During one of the hottest days of the summer so far, customers were told to leave the affected premises immediately as the power failure made it impossible for stores to operate, with even the likes of major chains such as Primark and the town centre McDonalds having to close their doors, with many windows displaying signs advising of the situation.

Video and pictures by Scott Murphy

Closed sign in window of Principality Building Society, Wrexham

The powercut even had an impact on the regulars at The Elihu Yale, with those inside at the time, at least being given the opportunity to finish off their drinks before they had to leave, with one man, who didn't wish to be named commenting that "at least the sun's out, so it's not all bad".

Scottish Power have confirmed the powercut resulted in approximately 100 properties in the town going off the supply, but that power had been restored shortly after 3pm.

A spokesman for Scottish Power said: "We received a call at 1.35pm on Monday afternoon to reports of an underground cable fault, which was affecting approximately 100 premises in the area.

Closed sign in window of Betfred store, Wrexham

"The power was restored to most of the premises at around 2.30pm. We would like to apologise to anyone who was affected by this incident."

A spokesperson for Wrexham Council said: “The one and a half hour power cut did affect some services, particularly for customers trying to phone in or visit the Contact Centre in Lord Street.

However, business continuity plans were activated which led to emergency cover quickly being put in place. Other Council staff were able to work flexibly with the minimum of disruption and normal working arrangements have now resumed.”