2660398
We, Cunlaghfadda Green Energy Limited, intend to apply for a ten-year planning permission for development in the townlands of Knockroe, Cunlaghfadda, Harefield, Cloonbaul and Knockaunakill, County Mayo. The development will comprise the provision of a renewable energy development consisting of the following: i. 7 no. wind turbines with a top of foundation to blade tip height of 160 metres; a rotor blade diameter of 136 metres; and hub height of 92 metres,1 no. meteorological mast with a height of 92 metres and subsequent decommissioning of the wind turbines and meteorological mast following a thirty five-year operational life from the date of full commissioning of the wind turbines; ii. Turbine and meteorological mast foundations and associated temporary and permanent hard-standing areas; iii. All associated underground electrical and communications cabling and subsequent decommissioning of all underground cabling within the site connecting the turbines to a proposed 110kV substation following a thirty five year operational life from the date of full commissioning of the wind turbines; iv. 1 no. temporary construction compound; v. Upgrade and widening of existing internal tracks and provision of new permanent and temporary site access tracks and all associated site drainage; vi. Upgrade and temporary road widening works along the L15053 and provision of 1 no. passing bay; vii. 1 no. new temporary site entrance off the L1505 in the townland of Knockroe to accommodate the delivery of abnormal loads and construction phase traffic; viii. 1 no. new permanent site entrance in the townlands of Cunlaghfadda and Cloonbaul; ix. 1 no. borrow pit; x. 10 no. peat and spoil management areas; xi. 2 no. temporary security cabins; xii. Tree felling and vegetation removal; xiii. Biodiversity enhancement areas; xiv. Site drainage; xv. Site fencing, gates and signage; and xvi. All related site works above and below ground and all ancillary development.
Core Refusal Reason
The development was refused due to significant adverse impacts on the landscape character (Policy Area 4), designated scenic routes, and cultural heritage (Mayo Abbey), alongside unacceptable injury to residential amenity resulting from excessive shadow flicker.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed turbines would significantly and negatively impact a sensitive landscape (Policy Area 4) and designated scenic routes with protected views, interfering with the character of the landscape which is necessary to preserve.
- The development would be highly obtrusive and detract from the setting of the Mayo Abbey Cemetery and Church ruins, a significant early Christian ecclesiastical site, thereby injuring the visual amenities and rural character of the area.
- The proposal would unacceptably impact residential amenity, as the requirement for extensive technological mitigation to address shadow flicker for 40 residential properties indicates the site location is unsuitable for a development of this nature and scale.