ATTENTION

The planning process for a Biogas plant and pipeline in Ballumackey has begun. The developer has applied for Strategic Infrastructure Development (SID) via the Pre-Planning Consultation process, which would allow them to submit an application directly to An Coimisiún Pleanála, and bypassing Tipperary County Council.

Submitting an objection

The planning process for a Biogas plant and pipeline in Ballymackey is underway. The developer has submitted an application directly to An Coimisiún Pleanála, and bypassing Tipperary County Council.

We can participate in the planning process by submitting an objection (also referred to as observation) as individuals or on behalf of organisations impacted by the proposed plant.

To submit an application, follow the guidance available on the ACP website. However, here are the key points to be aware of:

  • You can submit your objection online here or via mail a handwritten / typed objection on paper to: The Secretary, An Bord Pleanála, 64 Marlborough Street, Dublin 1, D01 V902. You can use this template to help you create your objection document if you’re submitted via mail.

  • The cost to submit an objection is €50. If submitting the objection online, you can pay by debit / credit card. Otherwise, payment can be made using Cheques, Banker’s Drafts or Postal Orders. Cash payments are not recommended.

  • The objection needs to be submitted within 5 weeks of the application being submitted (TODO: update date here).

  • Your objection must include the case number (323104), your own name and your postal address. When submitting online, you can name your document like so: 323104 - Michael Ryan.docx

Once you’ve submitted your application you should receive confirmation from ACP.

Advice on writing objections

Please read below for some general guidance on how to create your objection:

  • Each objection should be unique and factual. Remain objective as emotional letters will not carry the same weight.

  • Each objection should focus on the facts about the proposed biogas plant and how it impacts you as an individual or a member of your family. Ideally each adult submits an objection, instead of a single objection per family, but we understand there’s a cost involved.

  • Highlight any health conditions that you might be willing to disclose that could be worsened by gas emissions, increased traffic pollution, odours, etc. For example, if you have ashthma, rhinitis or other respiratory conditions you will likely be affected.

  • Consider the impact of the additional traffic on our roads. Specifically, if you drive, walk, cycle, on the roads, please highlight how you will be affected (e.g. concerns about safety) and what are the areas where you believe the risk would be highest (e.g. around tight bends where the road is only X meters wide and no trucks can cross, or there’s limited visibility of oncoming traffic). If you have children in the local schools and are concerned about their safety too, do highlight it.

  • Consider the impact of odours. Will your mental health be impacted by the constant presence of odours, will you be unable to dry your clothes outside, take advantage of your garden, etc?

  • Consider the local heritage, including how listed buildings exist in the vicinity of the proposed sight and would be surrounded by the biogas plant.

  • Consider the impact on local water, particularly if you have a private well and enjoy the local environment and wildlife.

  • Consider how the proximity to the landfill will create additional risks of pollution and other hazards.

If you have any questions don’t hesitate to reach out to us here or join our workshops in Ballymackey FC & Community Centre every Monday, Wednesday or Thursday from 7pm.