Kilberry And Nurney Residents Are Objecting To Proposed Plan For Kilberry Wind Farm

The proposed wind farm would place wind turbines in the peatland of Kilberry bog

Residents in Kilberry and Nurney are objecting to a proposed wind farm project by Bord na Móna and SSE Renewables.

The proposed wind farm would place wind turbines in the peatland of Kilberry bog.

Area outlined in red indicates the proposed wind farm. Photo via "No to Kilberry Windfarm" Facebook group.

Residents recently received news of this proposed plan via information packs by Bord na Móna.

Letter issued to residents by Bord na Móna and SSE Renewables. Photo via "No to Kilberry Windfarm" Facebook group.

Now, a "No to Kilberry Windfarm" group has been established on Facebook, where residents and concerned locals voiced their objections to the plan.

Residents are worried that the wind farm may threaten local wildlife, with objectors saying that the bog land is a habitat for the Hen Harriers and Whooper Swans, both protected species, and the introduction of a wind farm will disrupt the balance of their ecosystem.

Residents have also raised their concerns over installation of the substation, claiming it involves dangerous procedures which will subject risks of safety to the local community.

One objector has raised concern that their children, all with autism, will have their peace disturbed as the visual and noise stimuli produced by the turbines will exacerbate their sensory issues.

The group are planning a meeting with Labour TD Mark Wall in regard to their concerns.

Community engagement sessions will be held by Bord na Móna in March, which will allow residents and locals to attend and find more information on the proposed project.

The first will take place on March 11, at Rheban GAA club, Athy.

The second will take place on March 12, at Nurney GAA club, Nurney.

The final meeting will take place on March 13, at Saint Laurence's GAA club, Narraghmore.

All three meetings will be held between 5-8.30pm.

In a statement to Kfm, Bord na Móna said:

"Bord na Móna and SSE Renewables are actively engaging with members of the local community regarding the proposed Kilberry Wind Farm in Co. Kildare. As the project is still in its early stages of development, the number, location, and height of the turbines have yet to be determined.

"In the coming months, the project team will conduct a series of on-site surveys at Kilberry Bog, including ecology, ornithology, aquatic, and heritage surveys, as well as site investigation work. As the project progresses, an Environmental Impact Assessment will also be carried out.

"Bord na Móna and SSE Renewables’ Community Engagement Team will continue to engage with the local community throughout the project, including through upcoming in-person engagement sessions."

Information on these meetings can be found by contacting the Project's Community Liaison Officer, James, on 087 708 7022 or via email: info@kilberrywindfarm.ie.