2660019

for the felling of 43 hectares of mature pine forest at Derrylea, Clifden, Co. Galway and restoration measures to raise the water table to re-establish the hydrological conditions for blanket bog vegetation to redevelop. The proposed restoration includes drain blocking using peat dams, stump grinding, stump flipping and surface smoothing techniques and provision of silt fencing and silt traps to minimise the mobilisation of sediment, and the creation of a new forest spur road, provision of temporary water course crossings and ancillary development. The application seeks a 10-year permission in order to allow for phased completion. The site lies adjacent to the Connemara bog Complex Special Area of Conservation and the application is accompanied by a Natura Impact Statement