23/4563
Modifications to the permitted solar farm (Pl. Ref. No.: 17/6784, ABP Ref. PL04.303013). The modifications are within the boundary of the permitted development and will consist of: i) Changes to the layout and dimensions of the permitted solar photovoltaic layout which will decrease the solar photovoltaic footprint from c. 159,100 sq.m of solar panels, to c. 145,000 sq.m of solar panels on ground mounted frames (this modification is to allow for the inclusion of a proposed 110kV substation and grid connection which will be subject to a separate application); ii) Amendments to the internal track layout and the removal of the permitted battery storage unit; iii) 6 no. single storey inverter/transformer stations (reduced from 10 no. permitted inverter/transformer stations). Permission is also sought for the provision of a 33kV internal network cable (c. 3,760m underground with c. 114m of overhead line) linking the Ballinrea solar farm with the Ballinvuskig solar farm (c. 1.74 km to the northwest). The proposed development includes all associated site works and ancillary infrastructure. A Natura Impact Statement (NIS) has been prepared in respect of the proposed development and the NIS will be submitted to the Planning Authority with the application.
Core Planning Reasoning
The proposed development, which modifies a previously permitted solar farm and provides a new 33kV grid connection, is consistent with national and regional renewable energy policies and the Cork County Development Plan. It is considered that the project will not adversely affect the integrity of European sites, specifically the Cork Harbour SPA, nor will it significantly injure the visual or residential amenities of the area, subject to compliance with conditions.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The principle of the development is established through its status as a modification to an extant permission and its alignment with policy supports for renewable energy in the Metropolitan Cork Greenbelt.
- The physical modifications, including a reduction in the solar panel footprint and the removal of battery storage, are minor and will not result in significant additional landscape or visual impacts compared to the permitted scheme.
- The proposed 33kV cable and site works, following the implementation of mitigation measures detailed in the NIS and CEMP, will not adversely affect the conservation objectives of the Cork Harbour SPA or other environmental receptors.