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This development relates to the upgrade of Clonakilty Wastewater Treatment Plant to a Satellite Dewatering Centre comprising the importation of liquid sludges from external waste water treatment plants to the existing Wastewater Treatment Plant site, and the provision of additional physical infrastructure to enable sludge imporation and the dewatering of those liquid sludge imports, comprising: To be located at the sludge import area - Imported sludge screen, Imported sludge storage tank (below ground), - Noise protection barrier, 2.4m high. To be located in the existing oxidation ditch - Sludge imports buffer tank, - Picket Fence Thickener, - Thickened sludge storage tank, - Sludge liquor balancing tank, - Odour Control Unit, -Pumps of concrete plinths, Hardstanding for new skip. Extension to access road, with bunded area for sludge delivery tankers. Ducting and pipework. Centrifuge for imported sludge. Polyelectrolyte dosing pumps, feed pumps, mixers and other ancillary mechanical and electrical plant. All associated ancillary site development works.
Core Refusal Reason
The proposed intensification of the wastewater treatment plant for sludge importation is considered an inappropriate land use that would cause environmental pollution, traffic hazards, and constrain the strategic growth and water supply of Clonakilty.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The development would result in significant environmental pollution and foul odours, creating a public health nuisance and severely injuring the residential amenities of the surrounding town centre area.
- The proposal would consume critical wastewater and potable water capacity, prematurely hindering Clonakilty's ability to achieve its strategic population and economic growth targets as a designated Key Town.
- Increased HGV traffic and intensification of use at the Inchydoney Road junction would endanger public safety by creating a traffic hazard for motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians.