THE Broadford to Oatfield Windfarm Action Group has challenged the developers behind the Knockshanvo and Oatfield windfarms to engage meaningfully with the communities of East Clare.
According to the East Clare group, developers have “relied on repetitive, boilerplate press releases issued by an organisation presenting itself as Wind Energy Ireland (WEI). While WEI may claim to speak with authority, it is important to remember that it is a privately funded body whose interests are aligned with those of the developers”.
Alex O’Connor, spokesperson for the action group, said, “What’s happening here in East Clare will likely be remembered for years as an example of how not to engage with a community. Requests for local consultation events have been met with silence, while developers rely on a steady stream of media releases to try and drown out legitimate concerns. We’ve taken the time to review the plans and seek professional advice; this community is well aware of the grim reality that lies ahead if we don’t speak up”.
In a statement issued to The Clare Echo last week, WEI cites four proposed windfarms in East Clare, however the Broadford to Oatfield Windfarm Action Group claim that the real number “is at least six, involving over 100 turbines”.
“More worryingly, WEI has brushed off the prospect of a decade of traffic disruption in the region, something local residents know all too well from examining the planning applications.”
The group has also raised concerns about noise pollution. “We challenge any representative from WEI to step away from their keyboards and engage with us, the people who are going to be living with the consequences of these developments,” O’Connor continued. “Come to East Clare, see the landscape, and witness firsthand the changes being proposed. The developers’ so-called consultation, which involved displaying a few maps in a hotel in another county, hardly qualifies as meaningful engagement.”
The action group urges the community to remain vigilant as the deadline for submitting observations on the Knockshanvo wind farm with An Bord Pleanála approaches. Submissions must be made by 5pm on Thursday, October 31, 2024 (Case Reference PA03.320705).
