Permission granted for 12-turbine wind farm in Limerick despite local opposition

The Ballinlee development near Bruff will have a generating capacity of about 53.6MW and is expected to operate for 35 years. Stock picture

Planning permission has been granted for a 12-turbine wind farm in Limerick, despite strong opposition from local residents who claim the project will negatively affect their health and quality of life.

The Ballinlee development near Bruff will have a generating capacity of about 53.6MW and is expected to operate for 35 years. Planning inspectors said it would make an "important contribution" to achieving the climate action plan target of sourcing 80% of its electricity from renewable generation by 2030.

However, the decision has angered many local residents. A total of 309 submissions were lodged with An Coimisiún Pleanála objecting to the development.

They argued that developer Ballinlee Green Energy, a subsidiary of Limerick-based renewable energy company Greensource, had not adequately engaged with the community and raised concerns that the turbines would negatively impact health and wellbeing.

Among the issues highlighted were light flicker, noise pollution, and the proximity of the development to homes. Objectors said the area was too densely populated and unsuitable for a wind farm, noting that 179 homes are located within 1km of the site boundary and 279 within 1.5km.

In a 500-page report, the inspectors acknowledged the extent of issues and the level of concern from observers, but concluded there was "no evidence of health-related effects arising from exposure to wind turbines".

The noise levels from the turbines operating at night were above the limit imposed by the Limerick County Development Plan, but below limits created by national guidelines in 2006, they said.

The two inspectors also cited "the pressing national need to dial up renewable energy sources (including onshore wind) and reduce greenhouse gas emissions to reach Ireland’s renewable energy targets".

They did note there would be a "significant mortality effect" on local swan populations if the original plan for 17 turbines was to proceed.

The site is approximately 5km from Lough Gur, a horseshoe lake that is part of the Wild Atlantic Way route and Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands tourism experience.

A population of whooper swans is currently roosting at Lough Gur and feeding near the project site. Planning experts found the only way to avoid the birds from colliding with the turbines and dying was to reduce the number of turbines at the north of the site.

The planning permission also includes conditions aimed at protecting a prehistoric landscape believed to date from the Bronze Age, including a number of barrow cemetery clusters.

The Bruff Dromin Athlacca–Ballinlee Community Action Group will hold a public meeting this week to discuss appealing the decision to grant permission for the wind farm.