·         Proposed ‘Carrigeen Renewable Energy Development’ – wind energy development and associated infrastructure, including grid connection.

Senior Planner, Ms. Mary Grier, delivered a presentation on the proposed Carrigeen Renewable Energy Development, which is a Strategic Infrastructure Development (SID) application submitted directly to An Coimisiún Pleanála. Ms. Grier outlined the SID process, noting that Roscommon County Council, as a prescribed body, acts as a consultee in the process and An Coimisiún Pleanála will determine the application. While Members may, by resolution, contribute comments to the Chief Executive’s recommendation, the Council is not the decision making authority.

The proposed development is comprised of 11 wind turbines and associated infrastructure, including a 110kV onsite substation, access roads and grid connection works across a number of townlands between the Bellanagare, Frenchpark and Mantua areas.

The rationale for the proposed site selection was noted as including consistent wind speeds, low population density, a ‘Moderate Value’ landscape character classification, limited potential for impacts on national and European designated sites, proximity to the national electricity grid, and the availability of sufficient unconstrained land to accommodate the number and spacing of turbines. Potentially affected designated sites include Cloonshanville Bog SAC, Bellanagare Bog SPA, Lough Gara SPA, and the River Moy SAC.

Ms. Grier outlined the key issues and conclusions, having regard to the County Development Plan 2022-2028 and its associated Renewable Energy Strategy, the regional Spatial and Economic Strategy and the National Planning Framework. She noted that the site is located within an area designated as ‘Less Favoured’ for wind energy development. She further indicated that the Chief Executive’s recommendation would find that there is insufficient justification for locating the proposed development in a ‘Less Favoured’ area, as opposed to a ‘Most Favoured’ area, and that the potential impact on the Rathcroghan Archaeological Complex appears to have been underestimated.

Cathaoirleach Cllr. Callaghan thanked Ms. Grier for the presentation. He referred to a recent public meeting held in Bellanagare in relation to the proposed development, at which significant concerns were raised regarding the impact on surrounding boglands, the ongoing N5 project, and the surrounding landscape. He stated that any potential threat to the Rathcroghan Archaeological Complex would be detrimental. He also referenced historical difficulties experienced by local residents in obtaining planning permission and highlighted the presence of nearby heritage sites, including local graveyards, O’Connor’s Castle, Mount Druid, and other significant areas.

Members discussed the proposal and raised the following points:

·         General agreement that the proposal is not justified, having regard to its scale and location.

·         The need for a review by Government of current guidelines and regulations relating to wind energy developments.

·         Concerns that the development could adversely affect Rathcroghan’s bid for UNESCO World Heritage status.

·         A query regarding a similar development in Laois that was overturned by the Supreme Court, and whether a refusal on the basis of zoning designations would be upheld in similar instances.

·         Observations that residents in the Rathcroghan area have been subject to strict planning controls in recent years for housing and agricultural developments, and that a development of this scale should have to face the same level of scrutiny.

·         Concerns regarding the use of former boglands for large-scale wind turbine development and the potential impact on wildlife and the natural environment.

·         A query regarding the next stage in the process following submission of the Chief Executive’s report.

Ms. Grier thanked the Members for their comments. She advised that the report will now be submitted to An Coimisiún Pleanála, which will determine the application, typically within an 18-week period, although delays may arise. She noted that the Board may issue a decision, seek further information, or request a revised Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR). She clarified that the Chief Executive’s report does not constitute a definitive refusal but rather highlights concerns that have not been adequately addressed in the application. Ms. Grier also stated that it would not be appropriate for her to comment on a case determined by the Supreme Court.

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Keogh

           SECONDED by Cllr. Byrne

It was AGREED to highlight that Rathcroghan is an area of national importance from a heritage and tourism development point of view. This proposed development could be injurious to the site and the promoted objectives in relation to the development of Rathcroghan from a tourism point of view and also the protection of our heritage. It should also be noted that the area is ‘Less Favoured’ as outlined in the County Development Plan’s Renewable Energy Strategy.

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Callaghan

           SECONDED by Cllr. Kelly

It was AGREED to highlight the ecological importance of the Breedogue River as a significant habitat for freshwater fish, and to highlight that any interference could have a detrimental impact on fish and wildlife.

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Byrne

           SECONDED by Cllr. Callaghan

It was AGREED to highlight concerns that former boglands, previously taken out of use, are now being considered for wind turbine development requiring significant works. These bogs were originally withdrawn from use as turf cutting was no longer permitted, and that this context should be taken into account.