Planning refusal for Westmeath windfarm welcomed by local councillor

Ballymore-based councillor Vinny McCormack said he was "thrilled" that An Bord Pleanála has refused planning permission for nine large-scale wind turbines between Moyvoughley and Drumraney.

The proposed Umma More windfarm was first mooted some three years ago, and a application for it to be granted planning permission as a Strategic Infrastructure Development was submitted to An Bord Pleanála last March.

However, the board has this month refused permission for the project.

"I was thrilled to receive confirmation that this application has been refused by An Bord Pleanála. I am fully in favour of green energy, however it has to be the right development in the right location," said Cllr McCormack.

"As a nation we are in a prime position to pursue a large-scale off-shore wind policy, and I am glad to see developments recently on this front.

"The residents around Moyvoughley, Drumraney and Ballymore have been steadfast in recent years in raising their concerns about the scope of the proposed development and the huge impact it would have locally.

"The recent decision is a testament to their efforts and their commitment in protecting the integrity of their local area. I was also happy to make my strong objections known to An Bord Pleanála throughout this process."

The windfarm proposal was devised in association with Cork-based company Enerco Energy Ltd.

During the planning process An Bord Pleanála received 58 submissions from individuals and organisations in relation to the windfarm proposal.

* More details about An Bord Pleanála's decision to refuse permission for the windfarm can be found in our previous story here.