21735

development of circa 10km of grid connection infrastructure on the public road (N72) to connect the approved Drumroe East Solar Farm (Planning Reference 16/126) to the Dungarvan 100kV ESB Substation, comprising the laying of 38kV underground electricity cables and associated infrastructure, and horizontal directional drilling. A Natura Impact Statement has been prepared in respect of the application

Refused

Core Refusal Reason

The applicant failed to demonstrate that the proposed grid connection along the N72 would not negatively impact the traffic safety, efficiency, and strategic capacity of the national road network.

Decision Maker's Conclusion

  • The applicant failed to provide a robust assessment of alternative grid connection routes or justify the use of the N72, particularly as the parent permission for the solar farm originally indicated a much shorter connection to the Kilclogher substation.
  • The proposed trenching and directional drilling along a narrow section of the N72 with minimal verges would compromise the structural integrity of the road and interfere with existing public water mains and other utility services.
  • The development is contrary to National and Local planning guidance, including the National Planning Framework, which seeks to protect the significant government investment in the national road network and safeguard its operational life and future upgrade potential.

Cited Policies (CDP)

Waterford County Development Plan 2011-2017Policy ECD 15Objective INF 1Policy INF 3Policy INF 26

Decision Document Summary

Sunrise Energy Supply Limited applied for permission to install approximately 10km of 38kV underground grid connection infrastructure along the N72 national road to link the Drumroe East Solar Farm to the Dungarvan 110kV ESB Substation. The route spans from Cappoquin to Dungarvan, Co. Waterford, passing through several townlands and sensitive environmental areas. The application was refused because the planning authority determined that the works would negatively impact the safety and efficiency...
SOURCE PDFOpen Original
Note: If code appears below, the council site is blocking the preview. Please open the original file.