24/6312
The development will consist of: The development and operation of a c.13.8MW solar photovoltaic (PV) farm at a 21.25ha site located off the L2760. The application seeks a 10-year permission with an operational lifetime of 35 years and includes: • Approximately 37, 000 solar photovoltaic panels on ground mounted metal frames including string inverters mounted to the rear of the panels, with a maximum table height above ground of approximately 2.7 metres; • 1 no. 38kV substation including 1 no. MV switch room, 1 no. IPP control room, 1 no. ESB switch room and associated electrical infrastructure; • 3 no. transformer units; • Underground cabling and ducting; • 1 no. temporary construction compound and ancillary facilities for the duration of the construction phase of the project; • Perimeter fencing; • CCTV; • Construction and operational access provided from the existing site entrance off the L2760; • Internal tracks, site landscaping and all associated site enabling and site development works
Core Refusal Reason
The proposed solar farm was refused due to inadequate information regarding the protection of hedgerows, insufficient visual mitigation for its prominent elevated location, and the failure to provide a comprehensive archaeological assessment to safeguard heritage assets.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The lack of clarity in application particulars failed to demonstrate that the development would not result in significant adverse impacts on existing hedgerows and trees, thereby harming the rural character and visual amenity of the area.
- Given the elevated and prominent nature of the site, the scale of the solar farm and the absence of sufficient natural screening would seriously injure the amenities of nearby properties and the wider landscape.
- The absence of a comprehensive Archaeological Impact Assessment and testing means the proposal fails to protect potential undiscovered heritage and the setting of a Recorded Monument (Ringfort CO061-143), materially contravening heritage objectives.