ESB line upgrade confirmed for Mayo town after swan strikes

Councillor Harry Barrett has today welcomed confirmation from ESB Networks that significant upgrade works will be carried out on the Knockaphunta electricity line in Castlebar. This follows representations made by Cllr Barrett on behalf of local residents who were hit with numerous power outages. 

Residents in the area have been experiencing frequent breakdowns on the line, with power outages occurring numerous times each month. Following complaints raised directly with him, Cllr Barrett made a formal representation to ESB Networks, highlighting the disruption this has caused to homes, farms, and local families. 

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In a recent call between Cllr Barrett and area manager Fintan Lavelle, the company confirmed a number of measures that will be put in place to improve the line. 

The works include raising poles in the affected area and the installation of insulated overhead conductors. 

ESB Networks has confirmed that works will begin during the third quarter of this year due to raised water levels on surrounding lands. 

Mr Lavelle further advised that a significant cause of recent outages has been due to swans striking the lines. Measures will now be introduced to make the lines more visible to birds in an effort to reduce this problem.

In addition, it was confirmed that realignment works will also take place around Castlebar to improve overall stability and reduce the likelihood of further faults. 

Speaking on the issue, Cllr Barrett says this has been a real frustration for the people of Castlebar.

“Families and farmers were losing power far too often, and it simply could not continue. I made it very clear to ESB Networks that this situation had to be addressed," he said.