23/5719

A 10-year permission for a PV farm consisting of approximately 9,464 photovoltaic panels on ground mounted frames with 16 no. string inverters within a site area of 10.4764ha, 1 no. single storey transformer station, 1 no. single storey spare parts storage container, 1 no. delivery station, upgrading of existing agricultural entrance onto L1101, internal access tracks, security fencing, CCTV landscaping and all associated development site works

Granted

Core Planning Reasoning

The Inspector recommends a grant of permission because the proposed solar farm is consistent with national and regional renewable energy targets and the Cork County Development Plan 2022-2028, and it would not significantly impact the residential or visual amenities of the area, subject to mitigation conditions.

Decision Maker's Conclusion

  • The development is in accordance with the National Planning Framework and Climate Action Plan objectives to transition to a carbon-neutral economy by 2050.
  • Potential impacts on residential amenity, specifically glint, glare, and noise, are mitigated by significant separation distances and the strengthening of existing site boundaries.
  • The proposal would not have a significant adverse effect on the ecology of the area or the integrity of any European sites, including the River Blackwater SAC.

Cited Policies (CDP)

Chapter 13 (Renewable Energy)Policy Objective ET 13-2Section 13-8Policy Objective ET-13

Decision Document Summary

This report evaluates a third-party appeal against the decision of Cork County Council to grant a 10-year permission for a solar PV farm on a 10.5-hectare site in Clonbanin West, Mallow. The proposal includes 9,464 ground-mounted panels, a transformer station, and associated infrastructure. The site is located on improved agricultural grassland characterized by a gentle south-facing slope and strong hedgerow boundaries. The Inspector highlights that the project aligns with the Cork County Develo...
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