215-hectare solar farm plan between Dunboyne and Kilbride appealed

Plans for a large solar farm development on lands located between Dunboyne and Kilbride which were given the green light by Meath County Council, have now been appealed to an Bord Pleanala.

Soleire Renewables Holdings Limited was granted a ten-year planning permission in April for a 215 hectares solar farm at the townlands of Ballymacoll, Little Boolies, Nuttstown, Ballintry, Belgree, Rowan and Kinoristown, Co Meath.

The solar farm, which comprises two separate land parcels divided by local roads, would be operational for a 40 year period and planning also included its subsequent decommissioning. Dozens of submissions were made against the proposed development and now a third party appeal has been lodged with an Bord Pleanála against Meath County Council's decision to grant planning permission.

The third party appeal raises issues including the need for more mitigation measures to help offset potential flooding to their property, property devaluation, the visual impact and the proximity of the solar farm to homes.