Plans for extensive works on electricity line network in Laois
A planning application has been lodged to carry out extensive upgrade works on overhead electricity lines in Laois .
Mott MacDonald Ireland Limited have submitted the application on behalf of EirGrid for the uprate and refurbishment of the Athy - Carlow 110 kV circuit which traverses a number of townlands in Laois.
The works are planned to take place in Aghanure, Ballybeg, Ballyfoyle, Ballylinan, Ballynagarr, Clonpierce, Coolgarragh, Cullenagh, Drumroe, Garroonagh, Graiguecullen, Killabban, Killyganard, Oldcourt, Tankardstown, and Whitebog.
The proposed works relate to the refurbishment of existing grid infrastructure.
EirGrid say these works are required as part of their responsibility to operate, maintain and develop a safe and reliable electricity transmission system.
If approved, this development would form part of the national electrical grid infrastructure. The design life of the proposed development is approximately 50 years and it is anticipated that the transmission line will remain a permanent part of the national electricity network.
Planning applications have been submitted to all relevant local authorities, including Carlow County Council and Kildare County Council.
The planning application lodged with Laois County Council seeks permission to replace or restring a 10.2km section of the conductor along the existing Athy-Carlow line that runs through Laois.
It also includes the provision of fibre communication connection on the uprated circuit.
EirGrid also intends to replace 14 existing intermediate wooden polesets with similar structures. The replacement of these structures will result in standardised heights from 16 metres to 23 metres, with height increases between 1 and 2 metres.
Also listed in the application is the replacement of 15 existing intermediate wooden poleset crossarms and bar member replacements to 2 existing steel angle masts. Recapping works on shear blocks at 2 existing steel angle masts also need to be carried out.
Documents submitted with the application add: “All associated works/development to existing structures, including insulator/hardware replacement (strain clamps, suspension clamps and vibration dampers), replacement of step bolts, replacement of line identification and danger notices, painting of angle masts, replacement/installation of anticlimbing guards, access tracks, vegetation clearance, temporary construction compounds and all other works necessary to facilitate the development.”
All of the proposed works will be carried out by ESB workers or contractors.
Laois County Council have until July 23 to make their decision on the application.
Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme