Cork County Council grants permission for solar farm at Ballyhandle Quarry, Ballyhandle, Co. Cork

In context

It is one of 52 solar farm applications Cork County Council has received in the past twelve months, against 337 nationally. Of the 573 such applications decided by councils in the past three years, 92% were granted.

What happens next

The applicant, or anyone who made a submission on the application, can appeal the decision to An Coimisiún Pleanála within four weeks of 2 July 2026. If no appeal is lodged, the council’s decision stands and a final grant issues. The applicant sought a 10-year permission, which sets how long they have to start the development.

The development description, as lodged

Verbatim from the Cork County Council register. This is the source for every figure in the story above.

A 10 Year planning permission for a 100% carbon negative renewable energy c.600 Panel, 420 Kilo Watt (c1875m2) ground mounted solar PV array and all associated works. This development is covered by the provisions of the Renewable Energy Directive III (Directive(EU)2023/2024) and it is important to note that the planning application may be subject to section 34D of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended. When a notice issues in accordance with section 34D(b), the provisions of article 26A of the Planning and Development regulations 2001 to 2025 shall apply.