Decision due in July over BnM windfarm

A decision on whether Bord na Móna can build a wind farm in Offaly is due in early July as the council examines further information received on the proposed project. Bord na Móna wants permission for a development in the Drumcaw area of Tullamore. The development would consist of a wind farm made up of 32 wind turbines up to 100m in height and with a total height not exceeding 156m. There would also be underground cables, a permanent meteorological lattice mast 100m high and a 110kV substation, as well as a transformer and crane hardstanding area at each turbine. The specific sites for the turbines include Drumcaw or Mountlucas, Clonarrow or Riverlyons, Brackagh, Scrub or Pigeonpark, Island, Clonad, Gorteenkeel, Ballynakill and Derrycricket, Tullamore. A total of 16 submissions have been made on the plan, including ones from the Concerned Residents of Drumcaw and the Irish Parachute Club, based in Clonbullogue. The proposed development is on a site that is the subject of an Integrated Pollution Control Licence as issued by the EPA. Significant further information has been given to Offaly County Council in respect of this proposed development and the plans are available for inspection in county buildings, Tullamore. Meanwhile, Gaelelectric Developments Ltd has got the green light to build a much smaller scale wind farm at Rin townland, Ferbane. That development is to consist of two wind turbines, an electrical substation building and associated works.