22303
for a development consisting of the development and operation of a 150 to 500 MVA (electrical rating) synchronous condenser. The development which will be located within a site compound of c. 1 hectare east of the existing ESB substation for the purpose of stabilizing the electricity grid will consist of the following elements: The development and operation of a 150 to 500 MVA (electrical rating) synchronous condenser. Compound building housing synchronous condenser generator and flywheel (540sqm c. 10m high). Cooling equipment (c. 160sqm, c. 3m high); 5 no. modular containers to house electrical and control equipment (total area of c. 195sqm, c. 5m high). A generator step-up transformer, auxiliary transformer and electrical plant including and external circuit breaker (c. 8m); 1 no. firefighting water tank and pump, boundary fencing (c. 3m high) and CCTV, c. 50m of underground cabling ducts and cable to the neighbouring ESB Substation, all other ancillary site works including access roads. Planning permission is being sought for a duration of 10 years. Gross floor space of proposed works: 540sqm.
Core Refusal Reason
The development was refused due to traffic safety concerns regarding inadequate sightlines at the proposed entrance and insufficient information to demonstrate that the site is not at risk of flooding.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicant failed to demonstrate that the proposed site entrance on the L-7109 has sufficient forward sight distances, which would endanger public safety by reason of traffic hazard and obstruction of road users.
- The proposed roadside improvement works required to provide sightlines are considered a substandard form of development that raises concerns regarding long-term maintenance and security of the lands.
- The subject site is located within an identified flood risk area, and the planning authority is not satisfied that the development is not at risk from flooding or that it would not materially contravene objectives related to flood risk management.