109 submissions have been made to Waterford City and County Council in relation to a proposed solar farm.

Opposition has grown against the proposed Cullenagh Solar Farm, as many locals have voiced points of concern regarding the development.

A planning application has been lodged with Waterford City and County Council seeking permission for a large-scale solar energy development in the townlands of Lahardan, Glenhouse, Kilmoyemoge East, Kilmoyemoge West, Ballycahane, and Hacketstown, County Waterford.

Cullenagh Solar Farm Limited are seeking a 10-year planning permission to deliver the project, which would operate for a lifespan of 40 years.

The proposed development – which was submitted on September 16th – spans approximately 43.6 hectares and would involve the installation of solar PV panels on ground-mounted frames and ballast mounts.

Key elements of the plan include:

  • Nine transformer inverter stations.
  • Electrical and communications cabling across private lands and local public roads (L4026 and L40262).
  • Pole-mounted security cameras.
  • Two-metre high perimeter fencing and security gates.
  • The upgrading of an existing entrance on the L4026, the closure of another, and the creation of a new site entrance on the L40262
  • Road upgrade works at the junction of the L4026 and L40262.
  • Two temporary construction compounds.
  • Internal access tracks.
  • Associated site development works including drainage, landscaping, and reinstatement.

A decision on the application is expected on or before December 2nd.

Residents are worried that the proposed 43-hectare solar farm would surround a historic church and holy well, impacting the cultural and spiritual setting of the site.

They also fear that increased heavy-vehicle traffic during construction could pose a safety risk to children at a nearby creche.

Additionally, the local residents’ committee raised concerns that the solar-farm development might contaminate local water supplies.

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