Area: Ballywilliam
Started: July 1956
Finished: February 1957
Poles used: 1130
Line used (km): 101
Premises connected: 246
The figures above were sourced from our REO News magazine, to learn more about what these figures mean, visit our interactive map. The map above shows the area boundary and is from a digitised version of the original map used during the scheme.
The REO News from April 1957 informs us that the poor market for turkeys affected sales in Ballywilliam.
This digital scan from the REO News displays the following text:
“Ballywilliam Rural Area, Co. Wexford: As the final costs for the construction of Ballywilliam area were not available, Mr. G.V. Conway, R.A.E., supplied a preliminary report in which the most unusual item was the fact that there were no constructional difficulties of any kind. The area, situated north of New Ross on the eastern bank of the Barrow river, was generously dealt with by nature and forms part of a district noted for a high standard of farming. This is fairly evident from the fact that the local co‑operative creamery, to which supply was given at the commencement of construction for the operation of a 75 H.P. hammer mill, had already consumed nearly 12,000 units before construction was completed.
It would be pleasant to report that Ballywilliam was a model area in every respect but this was not quite so as 30 of the original acceptances were lost. A number of these losses was unavoidable and the picture was brightened by the fact that 72 extra consumers were gained. Although, as noted, the final costs were not available, it seems from the report that the financial return would be maintained, if not improved.
Sales reached a total of £623 but Mr. Conway expressed the view, with which we agree, that this was disappointing. Low livestock prices and the poor market for turkeys, coinciding with the imposition of levies and credit restrictions, were the factors which retarded sales. We feel sure that under normal conditions Mr. R.A. Reddy, A.O., would have reached a figure up to his previous high standard.”