Plans for 320-acre solar farm lodged

Plans for a large solar farm development on a 320 acres site in Killary, Lobinstown and Rathkenny area have been submitted to Meath Co Council.

Highfield Solar is seeking a ten-year permission for the construction of a solar PV energy development within a total site area of approximately 131.93 hectares, to include solar PV panels ground mounted on steel support structures, electrical transformer/inverter station modules, storage containers, CCTV cameras, access tracks, fencing and associated electrical cabling, ducting and ancillary infrastructure.

A Natura Impact Statement was submitted with the application.

Plans for a separate solar farm developmet of 467 acres by the same company in the Duleek area are currently at further information stage.

The company is seeking a ten-year permission and 35 year operation life for the development on a 188.9 hectares site in the townlands of Rathdrinagh, Sicily, Thomastown, Rahill, Drumman and Knockcommon, near the town of Duleek.

The proposed development consists of solar panels on ground mounted steel frames and associated works plus two new site entrances along the L5608 local road and all associated services and development works.

Further information was sought on the plans on 23rd July but has not yet been submitted. The company has six months in which to respond to a further information request.

Meanwhile, Highfield Solar Limited was granted planning permission for a solar farm at Downestown, Duleek in May this year, which is currently under appeal. A 10-year permission was granted for the construction of a solar PV energy development within a total site area of approximately 18.92hectares at Downestown, Duleek. A third party appeal has been lodged with an Bord Pleanala against the decision to grant planning for the development.