EirGrid publishes new report on ‘pylons’ project

EirGrid is seeking feedback on a new key report on the controversial north-south interconnector, which it says will improve the all-island electricity system.
The company will apply for planning approval for the development later this year or early next year. The proposal will be for overhead lines but the sub-station suggested for Kingscourt has been dropped.
David Martin, Communication Officer with EirGrid, told The Anglo Celt that their best estimation of the reconstruction of the line, which will be built by the ESB, is 2017.
He added that EirGrid published a “Final Re-evaluation Report” on the scheme yesterday (Tuesday) and is holding a series of open days in Meath, Cavan and Monaghan over the coming weeks.
EirGrid has been commissioned to establish a new 400kV Interconnector between Cavan and Tyrone but it has run into strong opposition from residents in the three counties who want the cables placed under ground while the company insist the most feasible option is to put them over ground.
A previous application was withdrawn in 2010 due to a technical error in a planning notice. However, the withdrawal came following lengthy and costly oral hearings by An Bord Pleanála.
Public meetings aimed at discussing the contents of the new report are due to be held in Cavan Town Hall on April 23 and 24, Carrickmacross on April 25 and 26 and Navan on April 29 and May 1.

 

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