05/09/2026
ESB Substation Batter Lane
For many years, residents and businesses in Swords, Donabate, Portrane, Lusk and wider North Dublin area have experienced frequent and disruptive electricity outages, driven by long‑standing capacity constraints in the local network. I have been campaigning alongside Cllr Corina Johnston consistently for these issues to be addressed and for proper investment to be delivered to support our growing communities.
ESB Networks has now confirmed that the new Batter Lane 110 kV substation is targeted to be operational by November 2026. This is a welcome and necessary upgrade that will strengthen supply, improve reliability, and support new housing and business connections across North Dublin.
In addition, ESB Networks has advised that a 4 km underground Medium Voltage cable will link Donabate village directly to the new substation. Discussions with Fingal County Council are ongoing to finalise the route. It is essential that these works are carried out with minimal disruption to residents, traffic and local services.
However, it must be stated plainly: this infrastructure should have been delivered before the construction of the new homes, which were planned and known about for many years. Retrofitting critical capacity after houses are already built creates unnecessary cost, avoidable complexity, and additional disruption for the very communities the infrastructure is meant to support. This is yet another example of how we do not plan well, and residents are left dealing with the consequences.
I will continue to press for timely delivery, transparent communication, and a responsible approach to managing these works so that residents finally receive the reliable electricity supply they deserve.
Duncan
