PLANNERS have refused permission for a wind farm in the south west of the county, citing the effects it would have on views from the famous ‘Bluestack Way’ walking route.
Dublin-based Cloghervaddy Wind Farm Ltd had sought permission for seven turbines with a maximum height of 126.5 metres (415 ft) in the townlands of Cloghervaddy, Meenagranoge and Meenacahan, near Inver.
However, objections were lodged by An Taisce, Louis and Joan Hanlon from Glenties and Joe Brennan from Fintown.
The Hanlons argued that, as the Wind Energy Guidelines are currently under review, all proposed development should not be permitted. They also claimed the proposed development would have an adverse impact on human health, property values and wildlife.
Mr Brennan claimed that the technology being used in the proposed turbines “is verging on being obsolete” and raised concerns in relation to the “corporate structure” of the applicant’s company with resultant concerns that some turbines used on the site will be ‘legacy turbines’ and/or redundant from other projects.
He also highlighted potential impacts on the endangered freshwater pearl mussel, Red Grouse populations and the accuracy of bird surveys undertaken.
In making their decision, Donegal County Council planners said the proposed development is located in a “prominent and strident position” within a scenic and elevated rural landscape of tourism significance and is an element informing the natural and scenic landscape context of the ‘Bluestacks Way.’
See today’s print edition of the Donegal News for full report.
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