2560750

Permission for: (i) Construction of a Stationary Battery Storage Facility which includes forty eight 20ft containers and twelve medium voltage transformers, (ii) Construction of single storey Substation building and bund to facilitate transformer plant, (iii) All associated site and development works, (iv) This application is accompanied by a Natura Impact Statement

Refused

Core Refusal Reason

The application was refused due to inadequate and unsafe site access, lack of legal right-of-way documentation, and potential adverse impacts on protected European sites (Dundalk Bay SPA/SAC) arising from associated unauthorised development.

Decision Maker's Conclusion

  • The proposed access via a narrow laneway is physically insufficient for construction and operational traffic, and the applicant failed to document the necessary legal rights or permissions from third-party landowners.
  • The applicant failed to demonstrate that required sightlines could be achieved at the junction with the public road (L-7164), creating a traffic hazard and endangering public safety.
  • Due to existing unauthorised roadway works on the landholding with a hydrological connection to Dundalk Bay, the Planning Authority cannot be satisfied that the project will not adversely affect the integrity of the Dundalk Bay SPA and SAC.

Cited Policies (CDP)

Section 13.16.17Policy Objective NBG3Policy Objective NBG5

Decision Document Summary

Ion Renewables Limited proposed the construction of a stationary battery storage facility consisting of 48 containers and 12 transformers at Mullagharlin, Dundalk, Co. Louth. While the principle of energy storage is supported by national policy, the specific proposal was refused because the intended access route is too narrow for the required traffic and lacks proof of legal consent. Furthermore, the lack of sightline details at the public road entrance poses a safety risk, and the presence of u...
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