An inspector from An Coimisiún Pleanála (ACP) has recommended that planning permission be granted for a new windfarm development located approximately three kilometres outside of Thurles town.
The proposal, submitted by Brittas Windfarm Limited, includes the installation of 10 wind turbines and a 110kV electrical substation. The project also requires roughly seven kilometres of underground communication and electricity cables to connect the site to the Thurles substation.
Strategic Planning Process
The application was submitted directly to the ACP as a strategic infrastructure development. This specific planning route allows the developer to bypass the requirement for permission from the local authority.
Local Concerns and Road Impact
The planning body received 74 submissions regarding the development. Local residents expressed concerns over visual impact, the generation of noise and flicker, and the potential effect on protected bird species in the area.
Additional objections focused on safety hazards due to the turbines’ proximity to the road. Submitters argued that the existing road network is unsuitable for a development of this scale.
Tipperary County Council echoed these infrastructure concerns in its own report. The local authority warned that a high volume of heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) delivering to the site would have a major impact on county roads.
Conditions for Approval
Despite the objections, the inspector concluded that the project is consistent with national climate ambitions and aligns with European, national, regional, and local planning policies.
The recommendation for approval is subject to 27 specific conditions. These include strict limits on the height of the turbines and the amount of noise they can generate.
The developer must also notify Tipperary County Council of the specific turbine models being used at least 12 weeks before installation. Building works are restricted to 7am to 7pm on weekdays and 8am to 4pm on Saturdays.
Potential Next Steps
If the recommendation is finalized, the developer may be required to implement all mitigation measures detailed in archaeology, nature, and environmental reports.
The developer could also be mandated to provide the requested funding for the N62 road resurfacing to mitigate the impact of construction traffic.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Brittas Windfarm project entail?
The project consists of 10 wind turbines, a 110kV electrical substation, and approximately seven kilometres of underground electricity and communication cables.
Why was the project recommended for approval?
The inspector stated that the development accords with local, regional, national, and European planning policy and is consistent with national climate ambitions.
What restrictions are placed on the construction phase?
Building works may only occur between 7am and 7pm Monday to Friday, and between 8am and 4pm on Saturdays.
Do you believe national climate goals should take precedence over local infrastructure concerns?
