ESB power line between Mayo and Galway to be upgraded

EirGrid is seeking planning permission to refurbish the existing Castlebar to Cloon 110kV overhead power line.

A planning application has been lodged to Mayo County Council with the consent and approval of the ESB.

The line is approximately 57 kilometres long and consists of 252 wooden pole-sets and 40 steel angle masts between the existing substation at Aughaluskey, Castlebar, and the substation at Cloon, Co. Galway.

The project involves the replacement of the existing overhead line circuit conductor and wires with a new higher capacity conductor.

A new fibre communication connection will be installed.

Up to 53 wooden pole-sets will be replaced along with 39 steel masts.

The project will result in upgrading works being carried out at the Castlebar substation and the replacement of 175 metres of underground cabling there.

A natura impact statement has been prepared in respect of the proposed development.