BACKGROUND

In April '07 Ventus Energy Ltd submitted a planning application to Clare County Council to build an 8 turbine windfarm at Loughaun North, Tulla. Over 20 submissions were made from concerned groups and individuals including Killanena/Flagmount Community Council, CELT (Centre for Environmental Living and Training), East Clare artists and NPWS (National parks and Wildlife Service).

The council refused permission in January 2008.

Ventus did not appeal the decision. Instead, SWS took over the interest and will presumably pay Ventus for their assistance.

At the time of the original planning application, the area was designated 'a preferred area ' for windfarms under the 2005 County Development Plan. It is also designated "visually vulnerable".

However, since November '07 the area is an SPA (Special Protection Area for the hen harrier) under an EU Birds Directive.

The basis for the council's decision was the destruction of peatland, damage to protected habitat and risk to protected bird species.

SWS have made a very similar planning application on 19 December '08.

SUBMISSIONS

Over 25 submissions were made to Clare County Council by the deadline of 31 January '09. Many people who submitted against the last proposal by Ventus Energy have submitted again.

Clare County Council has requested further information from SWS on numerous issues. The applicant has until August '09 to provide the information.

TIME TO MAKE FURTHER SUBMISSIONS

The further information requested by Clare Co. Council was significant and the council has deemed it a new application.

It is available on the council's website.

People can make submissions up to 5 weeks from the application date of 7 September 2009. If you have already made a submission, you do not need to pay the 20 euro fee.