Core Refusal Reason
The proposed development poses a significant risk to the integrity of the River Suck Callows Special Protection Area (SPA) due to potential bird collision and flight path obstruction, particularly for the Golden Plover, and is contrary to the conservation objectives of the Galway County Development Plan.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The planning authority is not satisfied, having regard to the precautionary principle, that the development would not adversely affect the integrity of the River Suck Callows SPA due to ecological lacunae in the submitted Natura Impact Statement.
- There is a documented risk of contravening conservation objectives for the Golden Plover as the 100m high mast and its 160m span of guy ropes could cause collision or obstruction of avian flight paths.
- The proposal is considered contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area and specifically violates Policy Objective NHB 1 of the Galway County Development Plan 2022-2028 regarding the protection of European sites.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Galway County Development Plan 2022-2028Chapter 15 - Development Management StandardsObjective WE5Policy Objective NHB 1
Decision Document Summary
Bord na Móna Powergen applied for a six-year permission to erect a 100m high guyed wind monitoring mast at Derryfadda, Ballyforan, Co. Galway. The site is located approximately 0.75km from the River Suck Callows Special Protection Area (SPA). Galway County Council refused the application following a request for further information, concluding that the applicant failed to demonstrate that the structure would not negatively impact the conservation objectives of the SPA. Specifically, the council c...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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