6.3-hectare solar farm proposed at Vartry Waterworks, Roundwood Oldtown, Co. Wicklow

In context

It is one of 11 solar farm applications Wicklow County Council has received in the past twelve months, against 346 nationally. Of the 562 such applications decided by councils in the past three years, 93% were granted.

What happens next

Anyone can make a submission or observation to Wicklow County Council until 21 October 2026, for a fee of €20. Only those who make a submission can later appeal the decision. The council is due to decide by 11 November 2026, unless it requests further information, which stops the clock.

How to make a submission

The development description, as lodged

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

10-year planning permission for the Vartry Security of supply project at the existing Vartry waterworks site south of the Vartry reservoir in the townlands of Roundwood in the electoral division of Oldtown, and Knockfadda in the electoral division of Newcastle Upper, County Wicklow, the proposed development consists of, i) 60 megalitres treated water storage in two new 30 megalitres capacity structures, ii) a new underground dichlorination chamber, iii) a permanent pre-cast concrete bridge over the Vartry River on existing bridge abutments, iv) solar photovoltaic panels installation on both reservoir roof areas, v) a temporary storage area for excavated material, vi) ancillary works including, a. water supply pipes, b. surface water drainage, c. temporary lighting during the construction stage only, d. temporary compound area for the construction period, e. hardstanding adjacent to the existing Callowhill Pumphouse, f. extension of internal access road to the inlet / outlet chamber of the reservoirs and, g. associated landscaping works