Limerick Wind Farm Proposal Faces Community Opposition Over Health Concerns

A proposal by Ballynisky Green Energy to construct six wind turbines near Coolcappa village in Limerick has sparked significant opposition from a local community action group. The group has raised concerns regarding the validity of public health guidance used by the developers, which has recently been withdrawn.

The proposed wind farm would feature turbines reaching an overall height of 158 metres. However, the Coolcappa Community Action Group highlighted that the Health Service Executive (HSE) no longer supports the views expressed in its 2017 position paper on wind farms. This document was previously cited by Ballynisky Green Energy to bolster its application.

According to Dr. Éamonn O’Moore, a director at the HSE’s National Health Protection Office, the 2017 guidance is obsolete. In response to a parliamentary question from local TD and Minister of State Niall Collins, Dr. O’Moore stated, “In the intervening time, the context has changed, and evidence-base has been developed further.”

The community group has formally requested a new public health assessment, emphasizing the potential impact on local children. “There are over 20 primary school-going children living within 1km of the proposed development,” a spokesperson for the group stated. Notably, 17 of these children attend Coolcappa National School, located just 750 metres from the site. The spokesperson added, “Children are especially vulnerable to noise and we all have a duty to protect their health and wellbeing.”

In response, Ballynisky Green Energy maintains that the project adheres to national noise regulations. The company asserts that noise levels from the turbines will remain within legal limits and will be closely monitored to ensure compliance.

Local representatives have also expressed their concerns regarding the wind farm’s proximity to essential community facilities, including the Coolcappa Community Hall, the school, a church, St Kieran’s GAA Club, and Newcastle West Golf Club. In a joint letter, Niall Collins, along with Adare-Rathkeale councillors Gerard Ward and Bridie Collins, stated, “These facilities are central to the life and wellbeing of the surrounding rural community.” They emphasized that the community group’s concerns are both genuine and supported by evidence.

The council has received over 410 submissions from various groups and individuals, including notable figures such as Communications Minister Patrick O’Donovan and Independent TD Richard O’Donoghue. Sinn Féin Senator Joanne Collins and local councillors John O’Donoghue, Tommy Hartigan, and Adam Teskey have also voiced their opposition.

As the local council deliberates on the planning application, they have extended the decision date to March 27, 2024. A spokesperson for Ballynisky Green Energy stated, “We await the council’s determination, and we appreciate the time and consideration given to the application and the submissions received.”

The ongoing debate reflects a broader concern about the balance between renewable energy development and community health, a topic that continues to gain prominence across various regions.