August 2, 2014
Ireland

Residents bid to halt wind-farm plans in midlands

Aodhan O'Faolain and Ray Managh | Irish Independent | 02/08/2014 | www.independent.ie

A High Court challenge has been brought against An Bord Pleanala’s decision to grant planning permission for a wind-farm development in the Midlands.

Last June, An Bord Pleanala granted Green Wind Energy (Wexford) Ltd permission to construct 29 electricity generating wind turbines with a maximum height of up to 166 metres, plus ancillary buildings, all on a site just north of Rhode in Co Offaly.

In High Court proceedings challenging that decision, local residents Stephen Carroll of Croghan, Rhode; and Joanne Addie, of Ballyburley, Rhode; and environmentalist campaigner Peter Sweetman, of Cashel, Co Galway, say the decision is flawed and should be quashed.

They allege the EIA conducted by the board failed to identify, describe and assess the direct and indirect effects the development will have on people, flora and fauna, soil, water, air climate and the landscape.

They have secured permission from Judge Marie Baker in the High Court to challenge the decision to give the wind-farm development the go ahead.

The case will return before the High Court in November.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2014/08/02/residents-bid-to-halt-wind-farm-plans-in-midlands/