2460079
for a period of 10 years to construct and complete a solar PV Energy Development with a total site area of 128.66 hectares comprising of electrical and inverter substations, modules, solar PV ground mounted on support structures, temporary construction compounds, internal access tracks, security fencing, electrical cabling and ducting, CCTV and other ancillary infrastructure. The solar farm would be operational for 40 years. A Natura Impact Statement (NIS) will be submitted with the application. The export capacity to the grid is estimated be c. 105MW MEC. Revised by Significant Further Information which consists of the addition of a temporary construction access which has been included within the red and blue line boundaries
Core Refusal Reason
The proposed development failed to demonstrate that the local road network could safely accommodate construction traffic, and provided insufficient assessment regarding impacts on protected wetland habitats and the local equine industry.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The local road network, specifically the L-6045 and L-60491, is deemed unsuitable in terms of width and construction depth to accommodate the projected 9,000 vehicular movements required for the construction phase.
- The application provided inadequate evaluation of the potential impacts on the Swordlestown South Transition Mire, an Annex 1 protected habitat, necessitating a full Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA).
- The proposal failed to sufficiently assess or mitigate potential noise, glint, and glare impacts on sensitive residential receptors and the significant local equine and bloodstock industry.