Concern growing over proposed wind farm
Concern is growing in South Roscommon over a proposed wind farm.
Concern is growing in South Roscommon over a proposed wind farm.
A public meeting, organised by the Suck Callows Anti Wind Farm Alliance, was attended by more than 100 people from the Ballyforan, Ballygar, Ahascragh and surrounding areas to discuss the Derryfadda Wind Farm project.
The meeting was also attended by Dr Martin Daly TD, Michael Fitzmaurice TD, Claire Kerrane TD, Cllr Emer Kelly, Cllr Tony Ward, and other public representatives.
This project, a joint venture between Bord na Móna and SSE Electricity, on Derryfadda, Boughill and Gowla Bogs is located in County Galway along the border with County Roscommon and the Suck Callows Special Protection Area (SPA). The area is home to several protected species including the Whooper Swan, the Golden Plover, and a host of wetland and water birds.
Concerns raised at the meeting by residents include the environmental and protected species impact, possible flooding risks, and potential effects on drinking water and private wells, property devaluation, construction traffic, and the impact on elderly and vulnerable residents.
When contacted the developers said as the project is at an early phase of development, the proposed number, location, and height of turbines are still to be determined.
“The project team, including its dedicated community liaison officer, are engaging with and have sought feedback from members of the local community on the proposed wind farm,” a spokesperson said.
“This included a series of in-person consultation events which took place in November 2024.”
A draft layout for the wind farm will be developed in the coming months. Further public consultation events will then take place to gather additional insights from the local community ahead of the planning submission in 2026.
