Courts / Offaly / Report

Residents challenge solar power facility

Date
2021-12-06
Stage
Hearing Or Decision
Primary locality
Portarlington
County
Offaly

Summary

In a High Court judicial review, a residents group from Treascon and Clondooluck, Portarlington, challenged An Bord Pleanala's October 4 decision to grant planning permission to Elgin Energy Services Limited for a solar power station on 90 hectares. The group, represented by Oisin Collins SC and Margaret Heavey BL, argued the decision was invalid because it contravened EU directives on habitats and Environmental Impact Assessments, and that the board failed to conduct a proper Appropriate Assessment. They cited potential impacts on species such as the Whooper Swan and the Fresh Water Pearl Mussel, and on nearby special conservation areas. The group also claimed the board ignored flood risk assessments in the Co Offaly Development Plan. Elgin Energy Services Ltd is a notice party. The judge directed the group to apply for permission to bring the challenge on notice, and the case will return in January.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Residents challenge solar power facility. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision

When:

Places mentioned

Court Venue
  • High Court
Secondary Mention

Topics

Stage Hearing Or Decision

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