2341837
Permission for development at a c. 44.4 ha site at Ballinvuskig, Douglas, Co. Cork. The development will consist of modifications to the permitted solar farm (Pl. Ref. No: 19/5371, ABP Ref. PL04.305186). The proposed modifications are entirely within the boundary of the permitted development and will consist of: (I) The exclusion of the permitted 38kV substation and grid connection which comprised of a loop in to the existing 38kV overhead line on site; (II) The exclusion of the permitted battery storage unit and container unit; (III) A reduction in number of inverter/transformer stations from 12 no. permitted to 8 no. inverter/transformer stations; (IV) The provision of a ring main unit to facilitate the connection of Ballinvuskig solar farm to a proposed 110kV substation at Ballinrea Co. Cork; (V) Assorted changes to the internal access tracks and the layout and dimensions of their permitted photovoltaic panels which will increase the solar photovoltaic footprint from c. 178,600 sq.m of ground mounted solar panels to c. 188,000 sq.m of ground mounted solar panels; and (VI) All associated site works and ancillary infrastructure. A Natura Impact Statement (NIS) has been prepared in respect of the proposed development and the NIS will be submitted to the planning authority with the application.
Core Refusal Reason
While the Planning Authority initially refused permission due to concerns over impacts on sensitive bird species and the Cork Harbour SPA, the Inspector recommends granting permission, concluding that the proposed modifications are minor, the site is of low ecological value, and the submitted Natura Impact Statement demonstrates no adverse effects on the integrity of European sites.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed modifications represent a reduction in the scale of permitted infrastructure and are minor in nature, resulting in no significant additional visual or environmental impacts beyond the previously granted permission.
- The subject lands are highly managed agricultural fields with low biodiversity value, and the submitted ecological reports provide a robust justification that the development will not significantly impact breeding or wintering bird species.
- The project is consistent with national and regional renewable energy targets and the provisions of the Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028, and will not adversely affect the integrity of the Cork Harbour SPA.