Core Planning Reasoning
The Inspector recommended granting permission because the development is consistent with European, national, and regional renewable energy policies and the Meath County Development Plan 2021-2027. It was determined that the proposal would make a positive contribution to Ireland's renewable energy requirements without seriously injuring the visual or residential amenities of the area, or negatively impacting the archaeological heritage and ecology of the site.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed solar farm is acceptable in principle as it aligns with strategic national targets to achieve 80% renewable electricity by 2030 and local policies supporting low-carbon transitions.
- Technical assessments regarding glint, glare, noise, and traffic demonstrate that the project will not have a significant adverse impact on local residents or road safety.
- Appropriate Assessment and archaeological evaluations, supported by mitigation measures such as exclusion zones and monitoring, ensure the protection of the integrity of European sites and the area's rich archaeological heritage.
Cited Policies (CDP)
ED POL 19INF POL 34INF POL 35INF OBJ 39INF OBJ 41DM POL 27DM OBJ 76DM OBJ 77Section 6.15.3.1Chapter 10 (Climate Change Strategy)
Decision Document Summary
The proposal seeks a 10-year planning permission for a solar PV farm with a 35-year operational life on a 91.9-hectare site in Clonymeath, Co. Meath. The development includes approximately 172,000 panels, 30 medium-voltage power stations, and a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). The site consists of 11 agricultural fields currently used for grazing and tillage, located near Summerhill. Key issues raised in the third-party appeal included the 'abuse' of finite agricultural land, impacts on mig...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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