2560578
for the development at this site in the townlands of Slievenalicka, Illaunbaun, Drumbaun and Lackamore (although no infrastructure will be sited within Lackamore townland), Co. Clare. The development will consist of: • Construction of 1 wind turbine with a maximum overall blade tip height of 150m. • Construction of associated turbine foundation, crane pad hardstand and assembly area. • Construction of one permanent 38 kV electrical on-site substation with one control building with welfare facilities, all associated electrical switchgear, security fencing, underground cabling, drainage infrastructure, and all ancillary works. • All associated internal underground electrical and communications cabling connecting the wind turbine to the on-site Substation. • Upgrade of existing tracks, roads and provision of new site access roads to facilitate construction and operation of the turbine. • Two borrow pits. • One peat repository area for peat and spoil management. • Construction of one temporary construction compound. • Development of internal site drainage. • Permanent and Temporary tree felling to accommodate the construction and operation of the turbine. • Signages. • All associated site development works. This application is seeking a 10-year planning permission, together with a 35-year operational life for the wind turbine from the date of its commissioning. The development is covered by the provisions of the Renewable Energy Directive III (Directive 2023/2413) Yes. The planning application is subject to section 34D of the Planning and Development Act, 2000, as amended. When a notice is issued in accordance with section 34D(b), the provisions of article 26A of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 to 2025 shall apply. An Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) and Screening for Appropriate Assessment have been prepared in respect of the planning application and will be submitted to the Planning Authority with the application
Core Refusal Reason
The proposed development would result in significant adverse impacts on the residential and educational amenity of the area due to noise and shadow flicker, and would cause an unacceptable cumulative visual impact on the landscape.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proximity of the proposed 150m turbine to Rockmount National School and nearby residences would lead to unacceptable levels of noise and shadow flicker, detrimental to the health and amenity of students and residents.
- The development would exacerbate the cumulative visual impact of wind energy infrastructure in the Slievecallan upland area, contrary to the landscape protection objectives of the County Development Plan.
- The proposed construction access via narrow local roads has not been sufficiently justified and poses a significant risk to road safety and the structural integrity of local infrastructure.