Permission for wind farm assessment equipment granted

Westmeath County Council have granted planning permission to a joint venture between Bord na Móna and SSE Renewables for the installation of equipment to assess the suitability of the area for wind farm development.

Coolnagun Wind Farm DAC made the application in respect of Coolnagun Bog at Clonava, Coole for permission to erect a guyed wind monitoring mast, with instruments, 120m hight and works necessary for its construction and maintenance, for a period of six years. The application will include a Natura Impact Statement.

Permission was granted by planners subject to seven conditions: that the work is undertaken in accordance with the plans submitted, the site will be reinstated on removal of the mast and structures and equipment are dismantled and removed and the site restored in accordance with the agreed Decommissioning Plan. The venture must also employ an ecological clerk of works to oversee mitigation measures outlined in the NIS. An aeronautical obstacle warning light will also have to be put in place.

Coolnagun Wind Farm DAC is a joint venture established by Bord na Móna and SSE Renewables to construct an onshore wind energy project spanning Westmeath and Longford. It is proposed to develop a wind farm on Coolnagun, Milkernagh and Coolcraff Bogs, to be known as Coolnagun Wind Farm. The proposed number, location and height of turbines have not yet been determined. The company say: “It is important to us that local communities have the opportunity to provide feedback to help inform the design, construction and operation of the proposed wind farm.”

Planners received the application in April 2025 and reached a decision last week.