2460300
a ten-year permission for development on lands measuring 17.28ha. The proposed development will consist of the following: (i) Demolition of a single-storey derelict shed structure (c. 93 sqm GFA) to facilitate the turbine haul route (ii) Construction of two E175 EP5 wind energy converters, each with an electrical rating of 7MW, an overall ground-to-blade tip height of 199.9 metres, a rotor blade diameter of 175 metres, hub height of 112.4 metres, associated foundations and hard-standing areas; (iii) Construction of an 800m permanent internal site access road which will run from the L50462 to the wind energy converter hardstanding areas including a 9.1m clear span bridge crossing a local stream; (iv) Construction of 1 No. meteorological mast with a height of 32 metres, associated foundation and hardstanding area; (v) Construction of 1 No. 20kV Substation Compound comprising 2 No. Modular Buildings each measuring 13.5 sqm in area and 3.5m in height, a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) comprising 3 storage modules on reinforced concrete plinths, with a height of 2.8 metres and associated electrical works, foundation and hardstanding area; (vi) Temporary alterations to the L5046 and L50462 public roads and temporary access roads to facilitate the turbine component haul route, including temporary widening of sections of the L5046 and L50462. (vii) Installation of underground collector circuit and communications cabling in underground cable trenches, from the proposed wind energy converter to the proposed on-site substation; (viii) All associated and ancillary site development, excavation, construction, and reinstatement works, including the provision of a temporary construction compound, site drainage, spoil management, fencing, lighting, hedge and tree trimming and cutting and operational maintenance; (ix) This application is seeking a 35- year operational life from the date of commissioning of the entire wind farm. An Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) has been prepared in respect of the proposed development
Core Refusal Reason
The proposed development was deemed to have excessive turbine heights (199.9m) that would detrimentally impact the visual character of Carrickglass Demesne and its protected structures, alongside concerns regarding residential amenity and flooding risks.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed turbine height of 199.9m is considered excessive for the location and would have a serious negative visual impact on the architectural heritage and character of the nearby Carrickglass Demesne and its associated protected structures.
- The proposed siting of the temporary construction and substation compounds is likely to adversely affect the residential amenities of nearby residents due to their proximity to existing dwellings.
- The development, specifically wind turbine no. 2, is located within a flood zone, and the applicant failed to provide sufficient confirmation that the proposal would not result in a loss of floodplain storage or exacerbate flooding in the area.