A renewable energy company is seeking to overturn Westmeath County Council's decision to refuse permission for a major solar farm project.
Neoen Renewable's Ireland Limited had sought permission to construct a solar energy development across 87 hectares around Crookedwood in Westmeath.
Plans had called for the photovoltaic solar panels on steel mounting frames, electrical powerstations and underground electrical and communications cabling.
Also contained in the application was a containerised battery energy storage facility and a proposed operating lifetime of 35 years.
The process was the subject of a number of public submissions against the solar farms, with locals highlighting their concerns over the effect it could have on biodiversity and the visual amenity.
Westmeath County Council refused the planning permission, stating that the development would contravene the Westmeath Development plan.
Neoen Renewable's Ireland Limited has now appealed the refusal to An Bord Pleanála, with a decision due in the new year.
