22406

to construct and complete a Solar PV Energy development with a total site area of circa 25 hectares, to include electrical transformer and inverter station modules, solar PV panels ground mounted on support structures, internal access tracks, security fencing, electrical cabin and ducting. CCTV and other ancillary infrastructure, drainage, additional landscaping and habitat enhancement as required and associated site development works. The solar farm would be operational for 35 years. Gross floor space of proposed works: 768 sqm

Refused

Core Refusal Reason

The proposal materially contravenes a condition of a previous planning permission (Pl. Ref: 20/961) and fails to demonstrate adequate control over essential access and drainage infrastructure located outside the planning unit.

Decision Maker's Conclusion

  • The development would materially contravene Condition 1 of planning reference 20/961 by proposing solar panels in the specific area previously approved for an energy storage facility.
  • The applicant failed to demonstrate that essential components, including site access and surface water drainage infrastructure, can be adequately provided and maintained as they are located outside the red line boundary of the planning unit.
  • The proposed development would result in a substandard form of development that endangers public safety by reason of traffic hazard and contravenes Policy Objective WW7 regarding Sustainable Drainage Systems.

Cited Policies (CDP)

Chapter 7 - Energy/Renewable Energies & Communications TechnologyPolicy ER2Objective ER 1Objective ER 3Objective ER 4LARES Policy Objective 8LARES Policy Objective 9LARES Policy Objective 5LARES Policy Objective 6Policy Objective RE1Policy Objective RE 2Policy Objective RE 4Policy Objective RE 5Policy Objective WW7

Decision Document Summary

Renewable Energy Systems (RES) Ltd applied for a 25-hectare solar PV development at Ballymoneen, Claregalway, Co. Galway, adjacent to a previously permitted solar farm. The application was refused by Galway County Council because the layout conflicted with the terms of a prior permission (Pl. Ref: 20/961), specifically by placing solar panels on land designated for energy storage. Additionally, the Planning Authority determined that the applicant did not have sufficient control over the land req...
SOURCE PDFOpen Original
Note: If code appears below, the council site is blocking the preview. Please open the original file.