There is an issue with SID (Strategic Infrastructure Development) in that it goes straight to An Bord Pleanala. What this means is that a developer can bring a project to the Bord whilst simultaneously bypassing any consultation with the public. Consequently there arise some difficulties with fast-track development which has been created at the detriment [...]
The planning and construction of windfarms is happening throughout the country, due to the 2020 target of completely renewable energy sources in Ireland. These developments are heavily supported by foreign investments. However, there remain some issues which are of environmental more so than financial concern. Proposed windfarm locations which have previously received status as SAC [...]
Whenever there should be a proposed development on sites designated SAC (Special Area of Conservation) and SPA (Special Protection Area), a competent authority is required to assess the environmental impact to the site, whether this be adverse or otherwise. It is required by An Bord Pleanala that the selected competent authority must avail of the [...]
Costs Protection: Section 50B and Section 7 of Environmental (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2011 The quarry conundrum- Section 261A FOI/ AIE Strategic Infrastructure Development: Public Participation in the planning process particularly in the context of major developments. Windfarm Developments Habitat’s Directive Environmental Assessment Directive