Decision To Refuse Midlands Wind Farm Overturned

Thursday, 11 January 2024 16:26

The proposal was first refused back in April 2021.

An Bord Pleanála has overturned a decision from Laois County Council to refuse plans for a new windfarm.

The proposed eight-turbine development from Statkraft on land at Dernacart, near Rosenallis, was refused in April 2021.

Laois County Council opted to refuse plans for the new windfarm in the county due to the potentially significant impact it could have on a local bat species.

There were also 26 submissions made against the project, which raised concerns with flooding, and the impact the development could have on local birds.

However, having reviewed the local authority's perspective, and Statkraft's, as well as the point of view of a third-party applicant, Mountmellick Wind Turbine Impact, the inspector for ABP has recommended granting permission for the development.

They suggested doing so subject to 26 conditions - they include the undertaking of monthly bat surveys by a specialist, as well as annual bird surveys.

The inspector also wants the project to be constructed within ten years, and operated for only 30 more.