Final untangling cable puzzle proposed for Portarlington

Laois County Council should begin planning to complete the process of removing overhead cables in Portarlington by applying for funds to do the work.

That’s the proposal from Cllr Aidan Mullins, Sinn Féin, who has tabled a motion calling on the local authority to seek / provide funding for the undergrounding of the overhead cables on French Church Street and Upper Main Street in Portarlington.

Speaking at a recent meeting in County Hall Portlaoise, Cllr Mullins said great work has been done in Port on Main Street and Market Square. He said the remaining sections are from French Church Street to the River Barrow Bridge and from Bank of Ireland to the Kilnacourt roundabout.

“It’s the last two pieces of the jigsaw that would enhance the whole streetscape,” he said.

He asked that an application be made for funding.

Cllr PJ Kelly, Fine Gael, backed the proposal and acknowledged the investment heretofore. He said the wires are “a mess” at Kilnacourt going in “every direction”.

Philip McVeigh, Senior Executive Engineer, replied in writing.

“Laois County Council will carry out a survey to scope the works required, in terms of the extent and routes of the overhead lines and the underground ducting/footpath replacement works required. A cost estimate can then be prepared to support an application for funding,” he said.

Gerry Murphy, Director of Services for the town, said the work will be done at some stage as part of the overall plan for Portarlington.

The issue was raised at the recent Portarlington Graiguecullen Municipal District Meeting.