Vol. 488 No. 7
296 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the plans, if any, he has to introduce legislation to control the size and scale of wind farms, particularly in areas of scenic beauty; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7290/98]
Planning law provides that decisions to grant or to refuse planning permission are made by the relevant planning authority and by An Bord Pleanála in the event of an appeal. In making its decision on a planning application, a planning authority must take into consideration the proper planning and development of the area, the development plan, and any submissions or observations made on the application for permission. Local authorities have a duty under the Local Government Act, 1991, in the performance of their functions, to have regard to policies and objectives of the Government or any Minister. The 1976 Planning Act requires An Bord Pleanála to keep itself informed of the policies and objectives of the Minister and any public authority whose functions may have a bearing on the proper planning and development of areas.
My Department published guidelines on wind farm development for planning authorities in September 1996. The guidelines identify relevant planning and land use issues which planning authorities or An Bord Pleanála should have regard to in considering an application for planning permission or an appeal for a wind farm. They also provide guidance on how wind energy should be dealt with in the preparation of development plans.
Work is under way in my Department on the preparation of planning guidelines on high amenity landscapes and the need for further guidance on the visual impact of wind farms will be considered in this context.
