Concerns re NIE Pylons Construction

[willie reynolds]

24 Creevekeeran Rd
Armagh
BT60 3PZ


Sir,
As some of you are aware NIE have lodged a planning application to construct a new network across parts of N.Ireland in conjunction with Eirgird in the republic. This network will run from Batterstown in Co Meath through countries Cavan, Monaghan, Armagh and ending with the construction of a sub-station close to Moy in Co Tyrone. (See map)

The proposed network will mean the construction of pylons carrying powerlines of 400KV; current powerlines in NI are 275KV or lower. So these structures will be much larger than anything in use throughout Ireland today. There is solid evidence to suggest that people living in close proximity to these powerlines (i.e. within 1-2km) have a much higher risk of contacting cancers, suffering miscarriages etc. There is also evidence of negative effects on livestock, crops and other agricultural activities, as well as the damage to the countryside during construction and the long-term effect on the landscape thereafter. Houses and properties in close proximity to similar powerlines in other parts of the UK and Europe have seen their valve drop by as much as 40% after construction.
On this basis, campaigns have been started on both sides of the border to object to this project. NIE and Eirgird have the option to place these powerlines underground but prefer to build overland due to COST.

We have all seen the damage that power/telephone lines cause when our birds collide with them, broken legs, wings and in many cases death. As this proposed powerline will cross our normal race route through central Ireland, our birds will have to negotiate this obstacle (in some cases more than once depending on your location etc), it will only add to the number of injures and lost birds that we are already experiencing. In an era where many fanciers are already disillusioned with the sport for various reasons, I feel that this problem may only add to its decline.
If this planning application is successful, it is probable that this project will be expanded to other areas of Northern Ireland, so what appears to be “our” problem today may be “your” problem tomorrow. The only way to protect the environment, minimise the risk of ill-health, and safeguard the cultural and sporting activities of ourselves and future generations is to support the campaign to have these powerlines laid underground.

Anyone wishing to support the campaign can send a letter of objection to myself or send it directly to the following address:

Divisional Planning Manager
Planning Service Headquarters
Millennium House
17-25 Great Victoria Street
BELFAST
BT2 7BN

Quoting the planning reference Re: Planning application for North-South 400 kV Tyrone –Cavan inter-connector with pylons and associated site works
Ref no. O/2009/0792/F

The planning office has given a four week window for objection letters to be submitted, this will close on the 19th February 2010.

Yours faithfully
Alan Withcroft
Secretary Armagh HPS.
07879885809