The OPR performs independent assessments of the various stages of the preparation of local authority plans to ensure they properly apply relevant national policies of Government.
One important policy aspect, which we are obliged to consider, is how development plans will contribute to ensuring that counties achieve their share of national renewable energy targets, in particular, wind energy production and climate change mitigation.
The government’s commitment in the Climate Action Plan is to achieve 70% of electricity from renewable sources by 2030.
Following our assessment, our submission on the Draft Westmeath County Development Plan 2021-2027 and our submission to Material Amendments to the Draft Westmeath Development Plan 2021-2027 have concluded that the plan is not consistent with government policy on wind energy development and on ministerial guidance on wind farm development.
The relevant policies and guidelines are:
- Interim Guidelines for Planning Authorities on Statutory Plans, Renewable Energy and Climate Change (July 2017)
- Wind Energy Development Guidelines, Planning Guidelines (2006)
In particular, the inclusion of onerous separation distances between wind turbines and residential dwellings will prevent the potential for wind farm development in the vast majority of the county.
These measures will limit the county’s capacity to contribute to meeting its share of renewable energy targets.
In our notice to the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, we have recommended that the Minister directs Westmeath County Council to take a number steps to address these issues.