13.6-hectare solar farm proposed at Cloyne, Co. Cork

In context

It is one of 52 solar farm applications Cork County Council has received in the past twelve months, against 339 nationally. Of the 573 such applications decided by councils in the past three years, 92% were granted.

What happens next

The five-week window for public submissions has closed. The council normally decides within eight weeks of the application being lodged, unless it requests further information, which stops the clock.

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 permission for a solar farm development on a site of c. 13.6ha. The proposed development comprises solar panels on ground mounted frames across the site. 4 no. medium voltage (MV) stations are proposed. Access tracks throughout the site are proposed as well as security fencing and CCTV poles. The proposed development will be accessed from the L3630 through a new entrance (as previously permitted under Reg. Ref.: 18/4258). The proposed development also includes landscaping, services, and all associated and ancillary works. The application seeks a 10-year permission and an operational lifespan of 40 years. This development is covered by the provisions of the Renewable Energy Directive III (Directive(EU)2023/2413) 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.