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the construction of one 4.2MW wind turbine with an overall tip height of up to 150m, the construction of the wind turbine foundation, hardstanding and assembly area, provision of a site entrance and an access track within the site. Construction of an on site 20kV substation and underground electrical cable and all associated site development and ancillary works

Refused

Core Refusal Reason

The proposal contravenes County Development Plan policy by siting a large-scale wind turbine (over 100m) on non-peatland soils and lacks sufficient technical detail regarding shadow flicker and grid connection impacts.

Decision Maker's Conclusion

  • The development is contrary to CPO 10.146 of the Westmeath County Development Plan 2021-2027, which directs large-scale energy projects with heights exceeding 100m specifically to cutover/cutaway peatlands.
  • The applicant failed to provide satisfactory details to rule out significant adverse impacts from shadow flicker on nearby residential amenities and property values.
  • The lack of information regarding the required grid connection prevents a comprehensive assessment of cumulative environmental impacts on designated European sites, contrary to CPO 12.1 and relevant EU Directives.

Cited Policies (CDP)

CPO 10.146CPO 12.1CPO 10.143CPO 10.147CPO 5.59CPO 9.34CPO 10.139CPO 10.140CPO 10.142CPO 10.144

Decision Document Summary

Natural Forces Renewable Energy Ltd sought permission for a single 4.2MW wind turbine with a tip height of 150m and associated infrastructure at Loughanstown, Co. Westmeath. The site consists of agricultural land near Castlepollard within the Inny River Lowlands landscape character area. Westmeath County Council refused the application primarily because the turbine height exceeds the 100m threshold for non-peatland sites established in the County Development Plan. Additionally, the planning auth...
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