Members of the Kilcash Wind Turbine Action Group and residents of Farbreagues who are are “in shock” following the announcement of a proposed 150 metre wind turbine in the area. This picture is taken from Farbreagues where residents say they will be most impacted.

An Bord Pleanála has upheld the planning refusal for a controversial wind turbine in the county.

On Friday, ABP rejected an appeal to overturn Roscommon County Council’s refusal for a wind turbine with an overall tip height of up to 150m at Kilcash. The appeal was brought by Natural Forces Energy.

In its judgment, ABP said it was not satisfied that adequate information had been provided on the impact the proposal would have on protected species in nearby special areas of conservation, such as the River Suck Callows and Lough Croan Turlough. It was then considered that the board could not ascertain that the development would not adversely affect “the integrity of a European site”, the judgment said.

“The proposed development would, therefore, be contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area,” it concluded.

The Kilcash Wind Turbine Action Group, which had opposed the development, welcomed the decision online, saying they were elated and delighted. It also thanked people for their support.

The application for the turbine was made in April 2021 and there was significant opposition locally to it. In January, Roscommon County Council refused the development on two grounds.