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Appropriate Assessment Screening Report
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant at
Maghernakelly and Drumcall, Drum, Co.
Monaghan
& Associated Gas Grid Connection
Prepared for: Stream BioEnergy
Completion Date: August 2026 RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment i
Table of Contents
Table of Figures ............................................................................................................................................................. ii
Table of Tables .............................................................................................................................................................. ii
Section 1: INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 Report Update Following Further Information ........................................................................................................ 1
1.2 Legislative Background ............................................................................................................................................ 2
Section 2: METHODOLOGY ......................................................................................................................................... 3
2.1 Screening Methodology .......................................................................................................................................... 3
2.2 Report Structure ...................................................................................................................................................... 4
2.3 Guidance and Legislation ......................................................................................................................................... 4
2.4 Treatment of Standard Project Design and Environmental Controls at Screening .................................................. 5
Section 3: PROJECT DESCRIPTION ............................................................................................................................... 6
3.1 Site Location ............................................................................................................................................................ 6
3.2 Topography & Drainage ........................................................................................................................................... 8
3.3 The Proposed Development .................................................................................................................................... 9
Operational Phase ..................................................................................................................................................... 9
Construction Phase.................................................................................................................................................. 17
3.4 Planning and Regulatory Context .......................................................................................................................... 18
Section 4: BASELINE CONDITIONS .............................................................................................................................. 19
4.1 Baseline Ecology .................................................................................................................................................... 19
Section 5: STAGE 1. SCREENING FOR APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT .............................................................................. 22
5.1 Overview of Potential Impacts .............................................................................................................................. 22
5.2 Determining the Likely Zone of Influence .............................................................................................................. 23
5.3 List of Relevant European Sites ............................................................................................................................. 24
5.4 Description of Relevant European Sites ................................................................................................................ 26
5.4.1 Kilroosky Lough Cluster SAC (001786) ............................................................................................................ 26
5.4.2 Lough Oughter and Associated Loughs SAC (000007) .................................................................................... 26
5.5 Screening of Relevant European Sites ................................................................................................................... 28
Section 6: IN-COMBINATION AND CUMULATIVE EFFECTS .......................................................................................... 31
6.1: Assessment Methodology .................................................................................................................................... 31
6.2: Existing and Permitted Plans and Projects ........................................................................................................... 31
6.3: Assessment of Potential In-Combination Effects .................................................................................................. 42
6.4 Conclusion ............................................................................................................................................................. 44
Section 7: SCREENING DETERMINATION .................................................................................................................... 45
7.1 Summary of Screening Findings ............................................................................................................................ 45
Section 8: REFERENCES ............................................................................................................................................. 48 RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment ii
Table of Figures
Figure 1 : Stages of Appropriate Assessment. ................................................................................................................... 3
Figure 2: Regional Site Location ........................................................................................................................................ 6
Figure 3: Site Location ....................................................................................................................................................... 7
Figure 4: Land Drains & Flow Direction ............................................................................................................................ 9
Figure 5: Proposed Development Site Layout ................................................................................................................. 11
Figure 6:Potential Gas Pipeline Route & Grid Connection Point ..................................................................................... 13
Figure 7: European Sites within 15km of the Proposed Development ............................................................................ 25
Table of Tables
Table 1: European Sites located within or connected to the ZoI ..................................................................................... 25
Table 2: Screening Assessment of Relevant European Sites ............................................................................................ 28
Table 3: Other projects in the locality (source: eplanning.ie). ......................................................................................... 32
Table 4: Plans associated with the Proposed Development ............................................................................................ 38
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment iii
General Details
Details of Author(s)
Name: Anna Paula Moreira
Address: Office 17, Oran Town Centre, Station Road, Oranmore Co. Galway
Company name: Veon Ltd. Veon Ecology
Tel. no: M: +353 87 607 1539
E-mail: apmoreira@veon.ie
Details of relevant
qualifications/
affiliations/years of
experience
B.Sc. (Hons) in Environmental Science
University of Galway
Over 2 years experience in conducting Phase 1 walkover surveys, mammal surveys, and
habitat assessments across a diverse range of projects. Work includes solar farms, wind
farms, forestry, and building developments, with a strong emphasis on preserving
biodiversity and promoting ecological sustainability in each project. Also proficient in
preparing ecological reports and assessments, including Appropriate Assessment (AA)
Screening, Natura Impact Statements (NIS), Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA), and
Biodiversity Management Plans (BMP).
Describe scope of
contribution in
preparing this Report
• Conducted a Desktop Survey, Phase 1 Habitat Survey, and Ecological Impact
Assessment (EcIA) focused on biodiversity.
• Undertook Appropriate Assessment (AA) Screening to evaluate potential impacts on
Natura 2000 sites. Ensured a robust and comprehensive AA Screening was achieved
that adhered to relevant legislation.
Veon Ltd. Veon Ecology
Revision Description Author: Date Reviewed By: Date Authorised by: Date
1. Draft Report AM 31/03/2024 AH 31/03/2025 PMcK 31/03/2025
2 Author Updates JG 21/11/2025 AH 21/11/2025 PMcK 21/11/2025
3. Final Report JG 28/11/2025 AH 28/11/2025 AH 28/11/2025
4. Final Report JG 26/01/2026 AH 26/01/2026 AH 26/01/2026
5
Final Report – Updated to
remove reference to the
Soil Relocation Area
JG 17/08/2026 AH 17/08/2026 AH 17/08/2026
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 1
Section 1: INTRODUCTION
Veon Ltd. (Veon Ecology) were commissioned by Stream BioEnergy Ireland Ltd. to undertake a Screening for
Appropriate Assessment (AA) for a proposed renewable biogas plant (‘the proposed development’) and associated
infrastructure, at Maghernakelly and Drumcall, Drum, County Monaghan.
The proposed project also comprises an associated underground gas grid connection which forms an integral
component of the overall project and has therefore been considered throughout this Appropriate Assessment
Screening.
The proposed development will employ anaerobic digestion (AD) technology to process up to 99,000 tonnes of organic
waste feedstocks annually, producing biomethane for injection into the national gas grid, nutrient-rich sustainable
fertiliser (as an alternative to synthetic fertilisers), and biogenic carbon dioxide (CO₂) for industrial/commercial
applications, thereby supporting Ireland’s decarbonisation objectives.
The proposed development constitutes a ‘project’ under the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Directive
(2014/52/EU) and is not directly connected with, nor necessary to, the management of any Natura 2000 site. As such,
an AA Screening is required under Article 6(3) of the EU Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC) to determine
whether the project, individually or in combination with other plans or projects, is likely to have a significant effect on
any Natura 2000 (European) site, in view of their conservation objectives. This requirement is transposed into Irish
law through Part XAB of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) and the European Communities (Birds
and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 (S.I. No. 477/2011, as amended).
This AA Screening Report has been prepared to assist Monaghan County Council (MCC), the competent authority, in
fulfilling its obligations under Article 6(3). It provides objective scientific information to assess whether the proposed
development is likely to have a significant effect on European sites, specifically Special Areas of Conservation (SACs)
and Special Protection Areas (SPAs).
This report presents findings from desk-based studies and field surveys conducted between July 2024 and September
2025, utilising best practice methodologies to evaluate potential effects on European sites within and beyond a 15 km
Zone of Influence (ZoI). As such, the European sites of interest to this screening include:
• Lough Oughter and Associated Loughs SAC (000007); and
• Kilroosky Lough Cluster SAC (001786).
The 15 km search radius was used only to identify European Sites for further consideration. The Zone of Influence for
individual impact pathways was subsequently refined using the Source–Pathway–Receptor model.
1.1 Report Update Following Further Information
This Appropriate Assessment Screening Report has been updated following the Further Information request issued by
Monaghan County Council in March 2026 and the subsequent refinement of the Proposed Development. In particular,
the Soil Relocation Area previously forming part of the planning application has been removed from the Proposed
Development, with surplus excavated soil and stone now proposed to be managed off site at an appropriately
authorised receiving facility. The Screening Report has consequently been reviewed and updated to reflect the revised
project description and the updated technical assessments prepared as part of the Further Information response,
including the Water Framework Directive Assessment, Flood Risk Assessment and the updated Land, Soils and
Geology, Water (Hydrology and Hydrogeology), Air Quality and Biodiversity assessments. The assessment of potential
source–pathway–receptor linkages and the in-combination assessment have also been reviewed having regard to the
revised Proposed Project. The amendments do not alter the conclusion of the Stage 1 Screening that likely significant
effects on European Sites can be excluded, either alone or in combination with other plans or projects. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 2
1.2 Legislative Background
The Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC) and the Birds Directive (Directive 2009/147/EC, codifying
Directive 79/409/EEC) establish the legal framework for the conservation of habitats, species, and birds of European
importance. Together, they form the Natura 2000 network, a coherent ecological network of protected sites
comprising SACs and SPAs. SACs are designated under the Habitats Directive to conserve natural habitat types listed
in Annex I and species listed in Annex II, ensuring they are maintained or restored to a favourable conservation status.
SPAs, designated under the Birds Directive, protect bird species listed in Annex I and regularly occurring migratory
species, safeguarding their populations and habitats. The features for which these sites are designated are termed
Qualifying Interests (QIs) for SACs and Special Conservation Interests (SCIs) for SPAs, collectively referred to in this
report as Qualifying Features (QFs).
Article 6 of the Habitats Directive outlines the management and protection of European sites. Specifically, Article 6(3)
requires:
“Any plan or project not directly connected with or necessary to the management of the [Natura 2000] site
but likely to have a significant effect thereon, either individually or in combination with other plans or
projects, shall be subjected to appropriate assessment of its implications for the site in view of the site’s
conservation objectives. In light of the conclusions of the assessment of the implications for the site and
subject to the provisions of paragraph 4, the competent national authorities shall agree to the plan or
project only after having ascertained that it will not adversely affect the integrity of the site concerned and,
if appropriate, after having obtained the opinion of the general public.”
Article 6(4) provides for derogations in cases where no alternatives exist, adverse effects on site integrity cannot be
avoided, and imperative reasons of overriding public interest (IROPI) are demonstrated, subject to compensatory
measures. Article 7 of the Habitats Directive extends the requirements of Articles 6(2) to 6(4) to SPAs, ensuring a
consistent assessment process for both SACs and SPAs.
In Ireland, the Habitats Directive and Birds Directive are transposed, for the purposes of this application, through Part
XAB of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) and the European Communities (Birds and Natural
Habitats) Regulations 2011 (S.I. No. 477/2011, as amended). The Planning and Development Act 2024 is being
commenced on a phased basis. This application and the associated Appropriate Assessment Screening are being
progressed under the applicable provisions of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended).
Since the proposed development is not directly connected with or necessary to the management of any European site,
MCC must determine, using best scientific knowledge and a precautionary approach, whether it is likely to have a
significant effect on any European site, individually or in combination with other plans or projects, in view of their
conservation objectives. This AA Screening (Stage 1) informs that determination, with the methodology detailed in
Section 2.
As part of this assessment, Northern Irish Special Areas of Conservation and Special Protection Areas have not been
included. This relates to the OPR (2021) which states ‘Transboundary effects relate to the likelihood of significant
effects on a site which is part of the Natura 2000 network but lies outside our national boundaries. Since 1 January
2021 nature conservation areas in the UK (including Northern Ireland) are no longer part of the Natura 2000 network.’
These have instead been considered in the Biodiversity chapter as part of the Environmental Impact Assessment
Report accompanying this planning application.
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 3
Section 2: METHODOLOGY
2.1 Screening Methodology
The AA Screening process follows a systematic, evidence-based methodology to identify and evaluate potential
impacts on European sites, adhering to Part XAB of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) and current
guidance, including the Office of the Planning Regulator (OPR) Practice Note PN01 (2021) and the Department of
Housing, Local Government and Heritage (DHLGH) guidance on Appropriate Assessment (2010, updated 2023). The
methodology adopts a precautionary approach, ensuring that potential significant effects are not overlooked, while
avoiding premature evaluation of site integrity, which is reserved for a Stage 2 AA (Natura Impact Statement (NIS)) if
required, in line with EU case law (e.g., People Over Wind, 2018).
The AA process comprises four stages, as outlined in Figure 1:
Figure 1 : Stages of Appropriate Assessment.
• Stage 1: Screening for AA – Determines whether the project is likely to have a significant effect on a European
site, in view of its conservation objectives.
• Stage 2: Appropriate Assessment (NIS) – Assesses the implications of the project on the site’s integrity,
including mitigation measures to avoid adverse effects.
• Stage 3: Assessment of Alternative Solutions – Examines alternatives if adverse effects on site integrity cannot
be ruled out.
• Stage 4: Imperative Reasons of Overriding Public Interest (IROPI) – Considers compensatory measures if no
alternatives exist and adverse impacts remain, subject to IROPI.
This screening report focuses on Stage 1, employing the following methodology:
1. Desk-Based Studies:
A comprehensive desk study was conducted to identify European sites within a ZoI, initially established as a 15 km
radius around the proposed development site, consistent with guidance from OPR Practice Note PN01 (2021). As such,
two SACs and no SPAs were identified within this radius:
• Kilroosky Lough Cluster SAC (001786): 12.2km northwest;
• Lough Oughter and Associated Loughs SAC (000007): 14.8 km southwest; and
Data to inform the AA screening were sourced from:
• NPWS site synopses, Natura 2000 data forms, and conservation objectives (www.npws.ie);
• National Biodiversity Data Centre (NBDC) species records (biodiversityireland.ie);
• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mapping tools (gis.epa.ie/EPAMaps/AAGeoTool);
• Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) and Northern Ireland Environment Agency
(NIEA) for transboundary sites; and
• GIS tools, aerial photography (Google Earth, Bing Maps), and Ordnance Survey Ireland (OSI) mapping.
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 4
2. Field Surveys:
Ecological surveys were undertaken from July 2024 to September 2025 (including supplementary surveys along the
proposed gas pipeline corridor), adhering to best practice guidelines. These surveys assessed the presence of Annex I
habitats, Annex II species, and invasive species listed under the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats)
Regulations 2011 (S.I. No. 477/2011) within and in the vicinity of the site.
3. Source-Pathway-Receptor (S-P-R) Model:
Potential impacts were evaluated using the Source-Pathway-Receptor (S-P-R) model, identifying sources (e.g.,
sediment/contaminant run-off, construction/operational emissions), pathways (e.g., hydrological, airborne), and
receptors (e.g., QFs of European sites). The assessment covered both construction and operational phases, examining
the potential for direct impacts (e.g., habitat loss) and indirect impacts (e.g., water quality changes) on the identified
European sites.
4. In-Combination and Cumulative Effects:
The screening assessed potential in-combination and cumulative effects with other plans and projects within the ZoI,
including permitted developments and proposed plans. Data were obtained from MCC’s planning portal (eplanning.ie)
and An Coimisiún Pleanála ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of synergistic impacts.
2.2 Report Structure
This report is structured to systematically address the AA Screening requirements:
• Section 1: Introduction – Outlines the purpose and legal framework.
• Section 2: Methodology – Details the AA screening methodology.
• Section 3: Project Description – Details the proposed development, including location, scale, and phases.
• Section 4: Baseline Conditions – Presents desk-based and field survey results to establish baseline conditions.
• Section 5: Stage 1 Screening for Appropriate Assessment (AA) – Identifies European sites and assesses
impacts.
• Section 6: In Combination and Cumulative Effects – Assesses the potential for the proposed development to
cause significant effects in combination with other projects and plans.
• Section 7: Screening Determination– Summarises findings and determines whether there is the need for a
Stage 2 AA (or not).
• Section 8: References – Lists sources and guidance used to inform this assessment.
• Section 9: Appendices – Includes maps, survey data, conservation objectives, and photographs.
2.3 Guidance and Legislation
This AA Screening has been prepared in compliance with the following legislation and guidance, ensuring alignment
with best practice and legal requirements in Ireland and the European Union:
• Legislation:
− Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora
(Habitats Directive).
− Directive 2009/147/EC on the Conservation of Wild Birds (Birds Directive).
− European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 (S.I. No. 477/2011, as
amended).
− Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended), Part XAB.
− Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended). RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 5
• Guidance:
− CIEEM (2024). Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in the UK and Ireland, Version 1.3,
September 2024, Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management.
− DHLGH (2010, updated 2023). Appropriate Assessment of Plans and Projects in Ireland – Guidance for
Planning Authorities, Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.
− EC (2013). Interpretation Manual of European Union Habitats, Version EUR 28, European Commission.
− EC (2018). Managing Natura 2000 Sites: The Provisions of Article 6 of the ‘Habitats Directive’
92/43/EEC, Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, Luxembourg, European
Commission.
− EC (2021). Assessment of Plans and Projects in Relation to Natura 2000 Sites: Methodological Guidance
on Article 6(3) and (4) of the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC, European Commission.
− NPWS (2019a). The Status of EU Protected Habitats and Species in Ireland. Volume 2: Habitat
Assessments, Unpublished NPWS report.
− NPWS (2019b). The Status of EU Protected Habitats and Species in Ireland. Volume 3: Species
Assessments, Unpublished NPWS report.
− OPR (2021). Practice Note PN01 – Appropriate Assessment Screening for Development Management,
Office of the Planning Regulator.
2.4 Treatment of Standard Project Design and Environmental Controls at Screening
In undertaking the Stage 1 screening assessment, a distinction has been made between measures intended specifically
to avoid or reduce harmful effects on a European Site and standard features or controls which form part of the
Proposed Project irrespective of any potential effect on a European Site.
In People Over Wind and Sweetman v Coillte Teoranta (Case C-323/17), the Court of Justice held that measures
intended to avoid or reduce the harmful effects of a project on a European Site cannot be taken into account at the
screening stage. In Eoin Kelly v An Bord Pleanála [2019] IEHC 84, the High Court subsequently considered the
application of this principle to Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems and distinguished standard environmental
measures which are not intended to avoid or reduce harmful effects on a European Site from mitigation measures
introduced for that purpose. This distinction is also reflected in the Office of the Planning Regulator Practice Note
PN01, which identifies the objective purpose of the measure as the relevant consideration.
The position was further considered by the Court of Justice in Eco Advocacy CLG v An Bord Pleanála (Case C-721/21),
which confirmed that Article 6(3) does not preclude account being taken at screening of features incorporated into
the project as standard features irrespective of any effect on the European Site concerned.
The Renewable Biogas Plant incorporates a range of engineering and environmental control features which are
inherent components of the development and would be required irrespective of the presence or absence of any
European Site. These include the engineered surface water drainage system, Sustainable Drainage Systems,
attenuation and surface water treatment infrastructure, controlled discharge arrangements, impermeable process
areas, bunded storage and secondary containment, sealed process drainage and containment of process liquors. These
features arise from the functional requirements of the plant and from generally applicable engineering, drainage,
pollution-control and regulatory requirements. They have not been introduced for the purpose of avoiding or reducing
an effect on any European Site.
Similarly, construction of the Proposed Project will be undertaken in accordance with generally applicable statutory
requirements and established construction-industry good practice. Relevant guidance includes CIRIA C532, C648, C649
and C811 and the applicable guidance for the protection of waters during construction. The environmental controls
arising from such guidance comprise standard construction practices which would apply to the works irrespective of
the presence of any European Site and have not been introduced in response to the identified downstream
hydrological connection. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 6
No additional or site-specific mitigation measure introduced for the purpose of avoiding or reducing a harmful effect
on a European Site has been relied upon in reaching the Stage 1 screening determination.
Section 3: PROJECT DESCRIPTION
3.1 Site Location
As shown on Figure 2, the proposed development is located at Maghernakelly, Drum, County Monaghan.
Figure 2: Regional Site Location
The site lies approximately 4.2 km northwest of Cootehill, 11.2 km southeast of Clones, and 17.5 km south of
Monaghan Town. It is accessible via the R189 regional road, which connects to the N54 at Monaghan Town to the
north and the R188 at Dawson Grove Demesne near Cootehill to the south.
As shown on Figure 3, the proposed development site spans approximately 6.2 hectares (ha) and is located across
two separate fields, which are predominantly covered by improved grassland (GA1) and bordered by maintained
hedgerows (WL1) with gorse (Ulex europaeus), hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), blackthorn (Prunus spinosa), holly
(Ilex aquifolium), and bramble (Rubus fructicosus agg.). The actively grazed and cut for silage grassland features
perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne), Yorkshire fog (Holcus lanatus), and weeds such as nettle (Urtica dioica), dock
(Rumex obtusifolius), and creeping buttercup (Ranunculus repens).
The fields are separated by an overgrown hedgerow, interspersed with a mix of tree species (WL2), such as
hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), holly (Ilex aquifolium), goat willow (Salix caprea), gorse (Ulex europaeus) and
beech (Fagus sylvatica). The site is bordered on three sides by maintained hedgerow, with gated access from
the adjacent public roads, which create disturbance in terms of severance, noise, threat, etc, potentially
limiting ecological value. These roads are:
• R189 which contains the eastern boundary of the proposed development site;
• L2280 Drumcall Road which contains the northern boundary of the proposed development site; and RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 7
• L22802 (McKeever’s Road) which contains the western boundary of the proposed development site.
Moreover, the hedgerow is cut back and gappy which further reduces the ecological value of the existing hedgerow
and limits its value as a movement corridor for small mammals, bats and birds. Moreover, as the hawthorn is cut
back it will limit the hawthorns ‘ability to produce fruit and flowers.
Immediately south of the proposed development site is an adjacent farmyard/farmhouse and residential property
(classified as built land (Fossitts Habitats Code: BL3)) separated by ditches (FW4) and hedgerow (WL1), interspersed
with a number of mature trees (WL2). The site forms part of an agri-business unit associated with this farm and
residential property, all forming part of the same overall land holding.
Figure 3: Site Location
Given the topography of the proposed development site (as detailed further below), an excess of fill material will be
generated during construction works. Whilst a large portion of excess soil will be repurposed as fill material for
landscaping within the proposed development site, an estimated 18,600 m³ of surplus excavated material that cannot
be reused on-site will be removed by suitably authorised contractors to an appropriately licensed soil recovery facility
or other authorised receiving facility, in accordance with the Waste Management Acts and all applicable waste
legislation.
The wider area is generally characterised by farmland consisting of improved agricultural grassland separated by
hedgerows and interspersed with lakes, drumlin terrain, low-lying areas of poor drainage, individual residences and
farm properties and small woodland copses. Larger forestry plantation can be found further to the east. A wetland RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 8
habitat consisting of fens, wet grasslands, reed swamp and scrub located approximately 195 m to the east of the
proposed development site1.
3.2 Topography & Drainage
The topography of the proposed development site slopes gradually from the adjacent local roads to the northeast and
west, then rises steeply towards a high point to the south (close to the adjacent farm property). The highest elevation
is in the south-west at 111.75 m Above Ordnance Datum (mAOD) and lowest elevation in the north-east at
90.00 mAOD.
The topographical data indicates natural drainage towards the north-east. As shown on Figure 4, a land drain along
the northern field boundary of the proposed development site conveys surface water runoff via a culvert under the
R189 into another land drain. These drains are hydrologically connected to the Coolkill Lough Stream, which rises to
the northeast of the L2320. The culvert is a 450 mm diameter pipe with the invert level raised above the level of the
receiving downstream ditch, creating impassability issues for local wildlife (due to its height above ground and
diameter).
A number of land drains (FW4) are also aligned along the eastern and western field boundary of the proposed
development site, separating it from the adjacent local road network. A ditch also runs through the central hedgerow
on the proposed development site, connecting with the land drain aligned along the eastern field boundary. As such,
all land drains convey field drainage / surface run-off to the land drain running to the north the proposed development
site and draining to the east. No natural watercourses occur within or immediately adjacent to the proposed
development site, with surface water drainage currently provided by a network of agricultural land drains.
As part of the proposed development, existing drainage arrangements within the site will be replaced by an
engineered surface water management system incorporating attenuation and treatment measures, as described in
the accompanying EIAR and drainage strategy, as detailed within the Engineering Services Report.
The floodmaps.ie web portal indicates that the proposed development site or the surrounding area is not at risk of
flooding in any of the available modelled scenarios. This is the conclusion of the Flood Risk Assessment which
accompanies this application and can be located in Volume III of this EIAR. The accompanying Flood Risk Assessment
concludes that the proposed development site is not at risk of flooding under any of the modelled scenarios, and there
is no evidence of significant historical flooding affecting the site.
1 Available at: https://wetland.maps.arcgis.com/apps/View/index.html?appid=e13b75c3bcab4932b992aa0169aa4a32&extent=-
12.6266,51.3236,-3.2168,55.4102 RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 9
Figure 4: Land Drains & Flow Direction
3.3 The Proposed Development
The proposed development comprises a renewable biogas plant and associated underground gas pipeline
connecting the facility to the national gas network. The project also includes all associated infrastructure including
access roads, drainage infrastructure, attenuation systems, utilities, landscaping, lighting, process buildings, tanks,
storage infrastructure and ancillary works necessary for construction, operation and maintenance.
Operational Phase
The proposed development will utilise AD technology to generate renewable energy in the form of biomethane from
up to 99,000 tonnes of feedstock per annum consisting of poultry manure, cattle manure, and agri-food organic waste
feedstock, sourced from the surrounding area. This will be achieved through a state-of-the-art, highly regulated facility
incorporating advanced technologies and abatement systems to mitigate the potential for adverse impacts on the
environment and human health. Key features in this regard will include enclosed handling of all materials within sealed
buildings / tanks, multi-stage odour treatment, noise containment, and engineered site drainage. The process is
illustrated and described below RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 10
The AD process can be broadly divided into the following four main stages:
• Feedstock Reception and Pre-Treatment: Organic waste feedstocks are delivered to the site, stored in
enclosed reception areas, and pre-treated to optimise digestion.
• AD Treatment: Pre-treated feedstocks are fed into anaerobic digesters, where micro-organisms break down
the material over several weeks, producing biogas (primarily methane and CO₂).
• Post-Treatment (following Digestion): The resulting digestate is separated into solid and liquid fractions, with
solids processed into fertiliser pellets and liquids recirculated.
• Energy Generation and Use: Biogas is upgraded on-site to biomethane and injected into the national gas grid
via a nearby connection, replacing fossil fuel-derived natural gas and contributing to Ireland’s renewable
energy targets under the Climate Action Plan 2025. Combined Heat and Power (CHP) units utilise a portion of
the biogas to generate electricity and heat for on-site use.
The AD process primarily produces:
• Nutrient-Rich Digestate: A biofertiliser suitable for use in agriculture and horticulture as a sustainable
alternative to synthetic fertilisers, reducing reliance on chemical inputs.
• Biogenic Carbon Dioxide (CO₂): Captured during biogas upgrading for industrial applications, such as food
processing or greenhouse cultivation, replacing CO₂ derived from fossil fuel-intensive processes and
supporting decarbonisation efforts. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 11
Figure 5: Proposed Development Site Layout
The site layout of the proposed development is provided on Figure 5, comprises a number of integrated elements
including:
• 1 - Administration Building (with associated surface level car parking);
• 2 - Main Process Building (with associated vehicle service areas);
• 3 - Odour Control System (with associated emission stack);
• 4 - Bunded Tank Farm (accommodating the vast majority of tanks that require containment and other plant);
• 5 - Digestate Treatment Plant (Evaporator);
• 6 - Digestate Drying Plant;
• 7 - Pellet Hall (for fertiliser storage);
• 8 - Combined Heat and Power (CHP) Building (accommodating two CHP engines);
• 9 - Boiler Unit;
• 10 - Shared Emission Stack (for exhaust connection to the Digestate Drying Plant, CHP engines and Boiler);
• 11 - CO2 Liquefaction Plant;
• 12 - Biogas Upgrade Plant (BUP);
• 13 - Biogas Treatment Plant (Biological De-sulphurisation Units);
• 14 - Gas (Holder) Buffer Dome; RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 12
• 15 - Weighbridges and Wheel Washes;
• 16 - Liquid Feedstock Storage Tanks (silos);
• 17 - Backup Gas Flare;
• 18 - Fuel Storage Tank;
• 19 - Gas Grid Entry Unit;
• 20 - Fire Water Storage Tank;
• 21 - Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) Storage Tanks (Propane);
• 22 - Freshwater Storage Tank (Underground);
• 23 - Staff and Visitor Parking;
• 24 - Control Building;
• 25 - Plant Room; and
• 26 - Back-Up generator.
Other integrated elements, though not numbered on Figure 5 include:
• Internal road and footway provision;
• Engineered stormwater drainage system;
• Landscaping and Earthworks;
• Lighting;
• Fencing and security gates; and
• Site entrance/exit off the L2280 Drumcall Road with gated frontage. This shall include localised widening and
realignment of this road and reconfiguration of the junction with the R189.
In general, the operational phase will involve regular vehicle movements (e.g., HGVs for feedstock delivery and by -
product distribution), air emissions from the CHP units / boiler / dryer, noise from plant operations, minimal surface
water discharge due to rainwater harvesting, no release of wastewater (being recirculated to the process) and
appropriate site wide containment measures, including a bunded area designed in accordance with CIRIA
requirements.
The plant will operate under an Industrial Emissions Licence (IEL) issued by the EPA under the Environmental
Protection Agency Act 1992 (as amended). The IEL will impose stringent regulatory controls, including emission limits,
environmental performance reporting requirements, and regular EPA inspections, ensuring compliance with national
and EU environmental standards (e.g., Industrial Emissions Directive 2010/75/EU). Stream BioEnergy is committed to
proactive monitoring and collaboration with regulatory authorities to maintain the highest operational and
environmental standards.
The proposed development incorporates a number of permanent engineering and environmental protection
measures that form integral components of the project design. These include:
• enclosed feedstock reception;
• sealed digestion process;
• enclosed digestate handling;
• impermeable process yards;
• engineered surface water drainage;
• attenuation and treatment systems;
• spill containment;
• bunded storage;
• odour treatment including biofilter;
• sealed process drainage; and
• contained process liquors.
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 13
These features form part of the proposed development as designed and have therefore been considered throughout
this Appropriate Assessment Screening.
As detailed above, biogas generated by the proposed development will be upgraded on site to biomethane and
injected to the gas grid (approximately 3.5 km south of the site) to replace fossil fuel derived natural gas (see Figure
6).
Figure 6:Potential Gas Pipeline Route & Grid Connection Point
The Proposed Project requires an approximately 3.5 km Linear Gas Grid Connection to facilitate the injection of
biomethane into the national gas network. The Linear Gas Grid Connection does not form part of the planning
application for the Renewable Biogas Plant and will be delivered separately by Gas Networks Ireland under the RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 14
applicable statutory consenting process. However, it forms part of the overall Proposed Project and has therefore
been considered throughout this Appropriate Assessment Screening. Its features include:
• installed within existing road corridor;
• localised temporary works;
• HDD beneath sensitive crossings where required;
• no instream works;
• reinstatement of disturbed areas;
• no direct interaction with European Sites;
• no new operational emissions.
Digestate Management
The proposed development does not include the land spreading of digestate. Digestate is a product of the anaerobic
digestion process. It is intended that digestate generated from the proposed development will be made available for
supply to third party landowners and occupiers for use as a biofertiliser. Land spreading of digestate produced at the
proposed development is, therefore, considered a reasonably foreseeable indirect activity associated with the future
operation of the facility, and has been considered accordingly within this assessment.
Digestate produced will be pumped to the pasteurisation tanks for treatment in a batch manner to the appropriate
Transformation Standard. Compliance with the Animal Byproduct Regulations (ABP) requires pasteurisation at 70ºC
for one hour, with a particle size of <12mm (similar to the PAS110 Certification Scheme in operation in the UK). The
plant will include temperature monitoring equipment and a reporting package for proof of batch time and
temperature to demonstrate achievement of the ABP sanitisation requirements.
The quality of digestate leaving the site will be controlled in accordance with the standards specified in the EPA IE
licence and the requirements of a permit issued by DAFM under ABP Regulations and will be certified as a non-waste
where it complies with these quality standards. These standards are established to ensure no direct or indirect adverse
impacts on human, animal or plant health and to prevent environmental pollution. In this way the environment will
be afforded full protection and the application of digestate will not give rise to nutrient imbalances.
The application of digestate to land as a fertiliser is not part of the proposed development, but rather is considered
an indirect activity regulated by an entirely separate and evolving regulatory framework that provides for the effective
management of land spreading of fertilisers to avoid and minimise any associated environmental risks to land and
soils, to water quality and aquatic habitats, and to air quality, including the following:
• The Nitrates Directive (91/676/EEC), as transposed into Irish law by the Good Agricultural Practice for
Protection of Waters Regulations (S.I. No. 113 of 2022, as amended by S.I. No. 393 of 2022, S.I. No. 716 of
2022, S.I. 62 of 2023, S.I. 42 of 2025, and as may be further amendment from time to time);
• The 2025 Nitrates Derogation Terms and Conditions (where applicable);
• The DAFM Code of Good Agricultural Practice for Reducing Ammonia Emissions from Agriculture; and
• Inland Fisheries Ireland’s Code of Practice for the Protection of Waters.
Collectively and together with other programmes and measures implemented by DAFM, the EPA and Inland Fisheries,
among others, landowners and occupiers are subject to stringent regulatory controls on nutrient management
including timing, application rates, buffer zones, and prohibited spreading periods, designed to protect inter alia water
and air quality, and aquatic and coastal habitats (referred to in this EIAR as ‘Good Agricultural Practice’). Furthermore,
relevant local authorities have water quality testing and reporting obligations.
These regulatory controls require that any fertilisers (including digestate) must be applied to land in a manner that
will not cause environmental impact. Protective measures include:
• Maximum nutrient application rates;
• Prohibited spreading periods (e.g. during winter months); RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 15
• Minimum buffer distances from watercourses, wells, and karst features;
• The use of low emission spreading techniques;
• Requirements for soil condition and weather suitability;
• Record-keeping and nutrient management planning; and
• Additional environmental protection for aquatic ecosystems, particularly in proximity to sensitive surface
water bodies.
Local nutrient imbalances will not occur when this product is applied to land as landspreading of digestate must be
undertaken by farmers in accordance with nutrient management planning in order to comply with the requirements
of the Nitrates Directive. Compliance by landowners and occupiers is achieved through systematic planning, reporting,
inspection, testing, and regular compliance review requirements prescribed by the Good Agricultural Practice
framework.
A long term digestate offtake agreement is in place with a local specialist agricultural contractor and agronomist who
will be responsible for the transfer and spreading of digestate in accordance with all relevant regulations and guidance.
Landowners are required to demonstrate annually through nutrient management planning that proposed landbanks
for landspreading have a requirement for the nutrients contained in the materials applied to the land. Stream will
ensure that digestate meets relevant quality standards when it leaves the biogas plant and will provide digestate
quality reports detailing nutrient content to the agronomist and farmers to allow nutrient management plans to be
prepared at the appropriate time. This will ensure proper and compliant management and controls in accordance
with applicable regulations and good practice guidance for digestate spreading.
As part of the digestate offtake agreement, arrangements will be put in place with local farmers to provide sufficient
storage capacity for digestate during the prohibited spreading period, as per established successful practice at other
biogas plants operated by Stream. Digestate will only be supplied to farms with sufficient storage capacity to satisfy
relevant agricultural good practice.
The application of digestate to land is not part of the proposed development and is a separate and distinct activity
subject to its own set of independent rules and regulations which are the responsibility of the landowner2,3
As the Court of Appeal held in an AA context in Sweetman v ABP [2025] IECA 49, the relevant competent authority (in
that case, the EPA) was obliged to conduct an AA for the proposed activity for which consent was required (in that
case, an EPA licence for the on-site activity) and found no likely significant effects on European sites. The competent
authority was not required to undertake a further assessment of off-site land spreading of by-product from the
proposed activity (fertiliser), as the application of fertiliser to third party lands did not form part of the project for
which the consent was sought. In reaching this decision, the High Court and Court of Appeal had regard to the Supreme
Court’s reasoning in An Taisce v An Bord Pleanála [2022] IESC 8 (‘Kilkenny Cheese’).
“Fundamentally, what was required to be assessed in the Kilkenny Cheese Factory case was the “project”; in
this case the “activity” being licensed. This is the notice party’s installation lands and not any other lands on
which poultry litter and wash water might be spread. It would seem to me that this principle must hold good,
regardless of whether one is concerned with upstream or downstream activities, and regardless of the number
of potential upstream or downstream premises engaged in such activities. Even though the number of farms
or spread lands might be more limited or defined than in the Kilkenny Cheese Factory case, as a matter of
principle, the obligation exists, or it does not. What is of relevance in each case is the activity being licensed or
authorised.”
By analogy with the EIA requirements under the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended, in Kemper v An
Bord Pleanála [2020] IEHC 601, the High Court considered that the land spreading of biosolids was a foreseeable and
integral part of the proposed waste water treatment system, but that any assessment of the environmental effects of
2 Kemper v An Bord Pleanála [2020] IEHC 601
3 An Taisce v An Bord Pleanála [2022] IESC 8 RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 16
such land spreading was not reasonably practicable the specific lands where the biosolids would be spread would only
be known after the project was operational and customers came forward, and because land spreading is separately
regulated under the Good Agricultural Practice framework (see below).
Digestate is a product of the anaerobic digestion process. Digestate generated from the proposed development will
be made available for supply to third party landowners and occupiers for use as a biofertiliser. Land spreading of
digestate produced at the proposed development is, therefore, considered a reasonably foreseeable indirect activity
associated with the future operation of the facility. However, it is not the activity for which consent is sought, nor does
it fall within the scope of the proposed development for which an AA Screening is required to be undertaken.
Stream will ensure that digestate meets relevant quality standards when it leaves the biogas plant and will provide
digestate quality reports detailing nutrient content to allow nutrient management plans to be prepared at the
appropriate time. This will ensure proper and compliant management and controls in accordance with applicable
regulations and good practice guidance for digestate spreading.
The future operator of the proposed development will not have operational, contractual, regulatory or financial
control over any individual third party landowner or operator that proposes to use biofertiliser from the proposed
development on their landholding.
Furthermore, use of fertilisers by third party landowners or occupiers on agricultural land is regulated under several
existing, generally applicable and binding environmental frameworks, including the following:
• The Nitrates Directive (91/676/EEC), as transposed into Irish law by the Good Agricultural Practice for
Protection of Waters Regulations (S.I. No. 113 of 2022, as amended by S.I. No. 393 of 2022, S.I. No. 716 of
2022, S.I. 62 of 2023, S.I. 42 of 2025, and as may be further amendment from time to time).
• The 2025 Nitrates Derogation Terms and Conditions (where applicable).
• The DAFM Code of Good Agricultural Practice for Reducing Ammonia Emissions from Agriculture
• Inland Fisheries Ireland’s Code of Practice for the Protection of Waters.
Collectively and together with other programmes and measures implemented by DAFM, the EPA and Inland Fisheries,
among others, landowners and occupiers are subject to stringent regulatory controls on nutrient management,
including timing, application rates, buffer zones, and prohibited spreading periods, designed to protect inter alia water
and air quality, and aquatic and coastal habitats (referred to in this EIAR as ‘Good Agricultural Practice’).
Furthermore, certain plans, projects and activities are subject to regulatory requirements and controls under the
European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 (S.I. 477 of 2011, as amended) (‘Habitats
Regulations’) and the Wildlife Act 1976, as amended (‘Wildlife Acts’).
The relevant competent authorities under the Good Agricultural Practice framework include DAFM and the EPA, while
relevant local authorities have water quality testing and reporting obligations. Compliance by landowners and
occupiers is intended to be achieved through systematic planning, reporting, inspection, testing, and regular
compliance review requirements prescribed by the Good Agricultural Practice framework.
The relevant competent authority for the purposes of activities requiring consent under the Habitats Regulations and
the Wildlife Acts is either the relevant decision-maker under the applicable consent regime for the proposed plan or
project, or Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government (‘NPWS’) for activities requiring consent (‘ARC’) under
the Habitats Regulations.
The appropriate management of land in accordance with Good Agricultural Practice, the Habitats Regulations and the
Wildlife Acts is the responsibility of each individual third party landowner and occupier, under the regulatory
supervision of DAFM and the EPA, primarily.
Accordingly, the use of digestate on land is subject to an entirely separate and evolving regulatory framework that
provides for the effective management of land spreading of fertilisers to avoid and minimise any associated
environmental risks to terrestrial and aquatic habitats, species and animals. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 17
Consequently, it falls outside of the scope of the AA Screening of the proposed development.
Notwithstanding the above, for the sake of completeness the land spreading of digestate is considered in this AA
Screening as an activity that could theoretically result in indirect effects on European sites, such as:
• Nutrient enrichment of sensitive habitats due to surface water run-off or groundwater contamination;
• Disturbance of qualifying species (e.g. bird species in SPAs, or aquatic species in SACs) if spreading occurs in
or near sensitive foraging areas.
It is noted, however, that all landowners and occupiers proposing to use fertiliser on agriculture land, irrespective any
potential interaction with a European site, are required to comply with the Good Agricultural Practice framework,
including their site-specific nutrient management plan. All such landowners and occupiers are further required to
comply with the Habitats Regulations and the Wildlife Acts, insofar as applicable.
Provided all such landowners and occupiers comply with these binding requirements, which may be revised or updated
from time to time to ensure compliance with European law, the use of digestate from the proposed activity is unlikely
to have a significant effect on a European site. Furthermore, no significant indirect or cumulative impacts on European
sites are anticipated, provided that digestate application adheres to these established and legally binding generally
applicable environmental protection measures, including:
• Maximum limits on nitrogen and phosphorus application rates;
• Prohibited spreading periods (e.g. during winter months);
• Minimum buffer (set-back) distances from watercourses, wells, and karst features;
• Exclusion of areas (including European sites) that could result in run-off to sensitive aquatic habitats;
• The use of low emission spreading techniques,
• Requirements for soil condition and weather suitability (e.g. avoiding wet and frozen conditions);
• Record-keeping and nutrient management planning;
• Prohibition of activities that could cause or permit the spread of specified invasive plants or animals, per the
Habitats Regulations and Wildlife Acts.
The NPWS further regulates any ‘activities requiring consent’ of the Minister under the Habitats Regulations, where
such activities are not otherwise subject to a development consent process under the Planning and Development Act
2000, as amended, or any other statutory provision listed in Schedule 2 of the Habitats Regulations.
All other plans or projects likely to have a significant effect on a European site are subject to a separate consent
process, either under the Planning Acts (if applicable) or under one of the other Acts listed in Schedule 2 of the
Regulations.
In all of the circumstances, the AA Screening of the proposed development may exclude beyond a reasonable scientific
doubt the likelihood of significant effects on any European site arising from the indirect off-site activity of land
spreading of biofertiliser that will be produced by the proposed development when operational, on the basis that any
such effect is too remote, is not known or ascertainable, and is the subject of a separate and independent regulatory
framework.
Construction Phase
The Proposed Development will require earthworks (cut and fill) to establish suitable levels for the integrated elements
necessary for the plant's operation. A temporary construction compound will also be established during this stage,
including welfare facilities, material storage and site offices. These facilities will be contained within the proposed
development site. It is anticipated that not all surplus excavated material can be reused on-site and any excess material
will be removed by suitably authorised contractors to an appropriately licensed soil recovery facility or other
authorised receiving facility in accordance with the Waste Management Acts and all applicable waste legislation. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 18
Vegetation clearance, where required, will comprise:
• topsoil stripping of grassland;
• removal of the tree-lined hedgerow located through the centre of the proposed development site;
• removal of the hedgerow along the L2280 to accommodate the partial realignment of this road and visibility
splays from the proposed development junction; and
• removal of a section of hedgerow along the R189 to accommodate the modified junction visibility splay.
Construction will include earthworks, reinforced concrete works, tank installation, structural steel erection, building
construction, installation of mechanical and electrical equipment, road and hardstanding construction, landscaping
and commissioning. Landscaping will be implemented at the earliest practicable stage, with priority given to the site
boundaries and the proposed landscape berms along the south-eastern and north-western portions of the site.
Construction activities will be undertaken in accordance with best practice environmental management measures and
the Construction Environmental Management Plan, including appropriate controls for surface water management,
sediment control, dust suppression, noise management and pollution prevention, as described in the accompanying
EIAR.
3.4 Planning and Regulatory Context
The proposed development requires planning permission from MCC under the Planning and Development Act 2000
(as amended). This AA Screening Report accompanies the planning application and has been prepared to assist the
competent authority in determining whether the proposed development, either alone or in combination with other
plans or projects, is likely to have a significant effect on any European Site in accordance with Article 6(3) of the
Habitats Directive and the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 (as amended).
The operational facility will also require an Industrial Emissions Licence (IEL) issued by the Environmental Protection
Agency under the Environmental Protection Agency Act 1992 (as amended). The IEL will regulate emissions,
environmental monitoring, reporting and operational performance through legally enforceable licence conditions.
The proposed development will therefore be subject to statutory planning and environmental regulation throughout
its construction and operational phases. The potential for likely significant effects on European Sites is assessed in
Section 5 of this report.
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 19
Section 4: BASELINE CONDITIONS
This section describes the existing environmental conditions at the proposed development site, focusing on ecological,
geological, hydrological, and hydrogeological characteristics. This baseline informs the screening of potential impacts
on European sites in Section 5.3, using the Source-Pathway-Receptor (S-P-R) model outlined in Section 2.
4.1 Baseline Ecology
The ecological baseline for the proposed development site was established through a desk study and field surveys
undertaken in July 2024 and September 2025. A separate walkover survey of the proposed gas pipeline corridor
between the proposed development site and Cootehill was also undertaken in June 2025 to inform the wider project
assessment. The proposed gas pipeline does not form part of the planning application that is the subject of this AA
Screening Report.
The ecological surveys were undertaken in accordance with the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental
Management (CIEEM, 2024) Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in the UK and Ireland (Version 1.3) and were
designed to:
• classify habitats in accordance with Fossitt (2000) A Guide to Habitats in Ireland;
• identify the presence of Annex I habitats and Annex II species listed under the Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC),
applying the precautionary principle;
• identify invasive alien species listed under the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations
2011 (as amended);
• record protected and notable fauna and other ecological features; and
• supplement field observations with records obtained from the National Biodiversity Data Centre (NBDC).
The proposed development site extends to approximately 6.2 ha and comprises two agricultural fields dominated by
improved agricultural grassland (GA1), bounded by managed hedgerows (WL1) with occasional mature trees (WL2).
Agricultural drainage ditches (FW4) occur along sections of the site boundaries and a central drainage ditch follows
the existing internal hedgerow. These habitats are characteristic of the surrounding agricultural landscape and provide
local ecological connectivity, particularly for common farmland species.
Immediately south of the proposed development site is an existing farmyard, farmhouse and associated residential
property separated from the site by hedgerows and drainage ditches with scattered mature trees. The surrounding
landscape is characterised by improved agricultural grassland, hedgerows, scattered woodland, small watercourses
and drumlin topography typical of the locality.
Surface water drainage from the site is currently provided by a network of agricultural land drains which discharge
northwards before draining east towards the Coolkill Lough Stream. No natural watercourses occur within or
immediately adjacent to the proposed development site.
No Annex I habitats or Annex II species were recorded within the proposed development site during the ecological
surveys. Similarly, no invasive alien plant species listed under the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats)
Regulations 2011 (as amended) were identified within the proposed development site.
The bird assemblage recorded during the surveys comprised common farmland and hedgerow species. No bird species
that are Qualifying Interests or Special Conservation Interests of any European Site were recorded within the proposed
development site.
No badger (Meles meles) setts were recorded during the surveys, although the surrounding agricultural landscape may
provide occasional foraging habitat. The proposed development site provides limited suitability for otter (Lutra lutra)
owing to the absence of permanent watercourses and associated riparian habitat. No evidence of otter activity, RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 20
including holts, couches or spraints, was recorded during the surveys or within the vicinity of the site. Camera traps
deployed on-site during August recorded fox (Vulpes vulpes) but did not record otter or badger activity during the
survey period.
The nearest EPA WFD-mapped reach of the Coolkill Lough Stream is located approximately 350 m east/north-east of
the point of discharge from Proposed Development site. Detailed ecological survey findings and species-specific
assessments are presented in the Biodiversity Chapter of the accompanying EIAR.
Overall, the proposed development site comprises habitats that are typical of the surrounding agricultural landscape
and are generally of low ecological value. The principal ecological features of relevance to this Appropriate Assessment
Screening are the existing agricultural drainage network, which provides the only potential hydrological pathway to
downstream European Sites, and the boundary hedgerows, which provide local ecological connectivity for common
terrestrial fauna. The site is physically separated from all European Sites by substantial intervening distances. There is
no direct ecological connectivity between the proposed development site and any European Site. The principal
credible pathway identified between the Renewable Biogas Plant site and a European Site is the indirect downstream
hydrological connection to Lough Oughter and Associated Loughs SAC via the Coolkill Lough Stream catchment.
The indicative gas pipeline corridor follows the existing public road network and is largely confined to the carriageway
and roadside verges. Habitats within the corridor are generally of low ecological value and comprise road verge
grassland, managed hedgerows and existing highway infrastructure. No Annex I habitats or Annex II species were
recorded along the indicative corridor.
4.2 Geology, Hydrology, and Hydrogeology
This subsection outlines the geological, hydrological, and hydrogeological characteristics of the site, focusing on
potential pathways to European sites identified in Section 5.3, using the S-P-R model. Data were sourced from the
Geological Survey of Ireland (GSI) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
4.2.1 Geology
The proposed development site is underlain by bedrock of the Red Island Formation, comprising predominantly
greywacke, microconglomerate and argillite, as mapped by the Geological Survey Ireland (GSI). According to GSI
mapping (2025), the site is overlain by glacial till derived from Palaeozoic sandstones and shales. These deposits are
generally characterised by low permeability.
No geological features of conservation importance occur within the proposed development site and there are no
recorded karst features, geological faults or other preferential geological pathways that could provide a direct
connection between the site and any European Site.
The proposed development will not involve the extraction of geological resources or any activities that would directly
affect geological features within a European Site. Consequently, the geology of the site does not provide a viable
source–pathway–receptor linkage to any European Site.
The nearest European Site is Kilroosky Lough Cluster SAC (Site Code: 001786), located approximately 12.2 km north -
west of the proposed development site.
4.2.2 Hydrology
Surface water drainage at the proposed development site currently comprises a network of agricultural land drains
(FW4) located along the northern, eastern and western field boundaries, together with a drainage ditch located within
the central hedgerow. These features collect and convey surface water runoff from the surrounding agricultural land. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 21
A land drain located along the northern boundary of the proposed development site conveys surface water eastwards
via a culvert beneath the R189 before discharging to a downstream agricultural drain. This drainage network is
hydrologically connected to the Coolkill Lough Stream (Waterbody Code: IE_NW_36D020700). The Coolkill Lough
Stream subsequently flows through Coolkill Lough before joining the Rockcorry Stream.
No natural watercourses occur within or immediately adjacent to the proposed development site, with surface water
drainage currently provided by this network of agricultural land drains.
As part of the proposed development, the existing drainage regime will be replaced by an engineered surface water
management system incorporating attenuation, treatment and controlled discharge measures, as described within
the accompanying Engineering Services Report and EIAR. These measures are designed to maintain the existing
hydrological regime and manage surface water runoff from the developed site.
The proposed development site is located within the Erne WFD Catchment (Catchment 36), the Dromore_sc_20 Sub -
catchment, and the Dromore_070 River Sub-basin (EPA, 2025). The receiving waterbody is the Coolkill Lough Stream
(IE_NW_36D020700), which is currently assigned Poor Ecological Status under the Water Framework Directive and is
classified as At Risk of failing to achieve Good Ecological Status. According to the EPA, the principal pressure affecting
the waterbody relates to its poor benthic invertebrate status, indicating existing ecological stress within the
catchment.
The nearest European Sites are:
• Kilroosky Lough Cluster SAC (Site Code: 001786), located approximately 12.2 km north-west of the proposed
development site; and
• Lough Oughter and Associated Loughs SAC (Site Code: 000007), located approximately 14.8 km south-west of
the proposed development site (approximately 38 km downstream by hydrological pathway).
The potential hydrological pathways between the proposed development site and these European Sites are
considered further within the Stage 1 Appropriate Assessment screening presented in Section 5.
4.2.3 Hydrogeology
The proposed development site is underlain by the Red Island Formation bedrock aquifer, which is classified by the
GSI) as a Poor Aquifer, generally unproductive except in localised zones. Groundwater vulnerability at the site is
classified as Moderate, reflecting the nature and thickness of the overlying glacial till deposits.
No significant karst features, regionally important aquifers or other hydrogeological features capable of facilitating
rapid groundwater flow are recorded within or immediately adjacent to the proposed development site. Furthermore,
the site is not located within a mapped Groundwater Dependent Terrestrial Ecosystem (GWDTE).
The nearest European Sites are Kilroosky Lough Cluster SAC (Site Code: 001786), located approximately 12.2 km north -
west, and Lough Oughter and Associated Loughs SAC (Site Code: 000007), located approximately 14.8 km south-west
of the proposed development site. The Qualifying Interests of these SACs include natural eutrophic lakes, bog
woodland and otter. None of these European Sites is hydraulically connected to the proposed development site via a
significant groundwater pathway.
Having regard to the hydrogeological setting, including the presence of a poorly productive bedrock aquifer, moderate
groundwater vulnerability, the absence of karstic features and the substantial separation distances involved, there is
limited potential for groundwater connectivity between the proposed development site and any European Site. The
significance of any potential hydrogeological pathways is considered further within the Stage 1 Appropriate
Assessment screening presented in Section 5. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 22
Section 5: STAGE 1. SCREENING FOR APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT
This section provides the Stage 1 Screening for AA to determine whether the proposed development either alone or
in combination with other plans or projects, is likely to have significant effects on European sites. The screening follows
the methodology outlined in Section 2, using the S-P-R model and adopts a precautionary approach in line with EU
guidance (EC, 2021).
This Stage 1 Appropriate Assessment Screening has been undertaken having regard to the Proposed Project as
designed, including the standard engineering and operational characteristics which define the nature of the
development and the potential sources and emissions arising from it.
These inherent project characteristics include enclosed feedstock reception and processing, sealed anaerobic
digestion and digestate storage systems, impermeable process areas, bunded storage and secondary containment,
engineered surface water drainage, Sustainable Drainage Systems, attenuation and surface water treatment
infrastructure, sealed process drainage and containment of process liquors. These features are standard functional,
engineering, pollution-control and regulatory components of the Renewable Biogas Plant and would be incorporated
into the design irrespective of the presence or absence of any European Site.
They have therefore been taken into account in characterising the Proposed Project and identifying potential source-
pathway-receptor linkages. No measure introduced specifically to avoid or reduce a harmful effect on a European Site
has been relied upon in reaching the Stage 1 screening conclusion.
Accordingly, this Stage 1 Appropriate Assessment Screening has been undertaken having regard to the proposed
development as designed, including its embedded engineering and environmental protection measures. These
include, but are not limited to:
• enclosed feedstock reception, handling and processing areas
• sealed anaerobic digestion and digestate storage systems;
• impermeable process yards and bunded storage areas;
• the permanent surface water management system incorporating attenuation and treatment;
• permanent odour treatment infrastructure, including the biofilter and associated odour control systems;
• combustion plant designed and assessed in accordance with the proposed emission characteristics;
• containment and management of process liquors and drainage infrastructure; and
• all other permanent engineering features forming part of the proposed development as described in Section
3 and assessed within the accompanying EIAR.
These features have been considered as intrinsic components of the proposed development in characterising potential
emissions and identifying source–pathway–receptor linkages. They are not mitigation measures introduced following
the identification of likely significant effects but rather form part of the project being assessed.
5.1 Overview of Potential Impacts
The proposed development has been reviewed to identify all potential source–pathway–receptor linkages that could
give rise to likely significant effects on European Sites during both the construction and operational phases. The
assessment has been undertaken on a precautionary basis and considers both direct and indirect pathways.
The principal potential impact pathways identified are as follows:
• Surface Water Pollution: During construction, earthworks, excavation, concrete works and the use of fuels,
oils and other hazardous substances have the potential to result in sediment or contaminant runoff entering
the existing agricultural drainage network and ultimately the Coolkill Lough Stream. During operation,
accidental spillages associated with feedstock handling, digestate storage or vehicle movements could
similarly affect surface water quality. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 23
• Groundwater Pollution: Construction activities involving excavation, accidental spillages or the handling of
hazardous substances have the potential to affect groundwater locally. Operational activities have also been
considered in the context of the site's hydrogeological setting.
• Atmospheric Emissions: Operational emissions associated with the CHP units, boiler, digestate drying plant,
odour control system and emergency flare have been considered as potential pathways for effects arising
from air pollutants or nitrogen deposition on European Sites.
• Noise, Vibration and Human Disturbance: Construction activities and operational plant, including vehicle
movements and mechanical equipment, have the potential to generate noise and disturbance. The potential
for such effects to extend to qualifying species associated with European Sites has been assessed.
• Habitat Loss and Fragmentation: Vegetation clearance associated with the proposed development has been
considered in relation to ecological connectivity and any potential indirect effects on European Sites.
• Lighting: Operational lighting has been considered in terms of potential disturbance to nocturnal fauna and
ecological corridors.
• Traffic and Vehicle Movements: Construction traffic and operational HGV movements have been assessed in
relation to accidental pollution, disturbance and any potential indirect effects on European Sites.
• Digestate Management: Although the land spreading of digestate does not form part of the proposed
development and is regulated under separate statutory controls, it has been considered as a reasonably
foreseeable indirect activity associated with the operation of the facility.
Each of these potential pathways is considered further within the screening assessment using the Source–Pathway–
Receptor model to determine whether a credible pathway exists between the proposed development and the
Qualifying Features of any European Site.
5.2 Determining the Likely Zone of Influence
The ZoI for the proposed development has been established having regard to the nature, scale and location of the
proposed development, the characteristics of the receiving environment, the ecological sensitivities of nearby
European Sites, and the presence of any credible source–pathway–receptor linkages. In accordance with OPR Practice
Note PN01 (2021), an initial search radius of 15 km was used to identify European Sites. However, the final ZoI has
been refined based on the existence of viable impact pathways rather than distance alone.
Hydrological Pathways
Potential hydrological effects during both the construction and operational phases relate principally to the accidental
release of sediment or other contaminants to the existing agricultural drainage network.
Surface water runoff from the proposed development site currently drains via agricultural land drains to the Coolkill
Lough Stream (Waterbody Code: IE_NW_36D020700), which subsequently flows to the Rockcorry Stream, the
Dromore River and ultimately the Lough Oughter and Associated Loughs SAC (Site Code: 000007).
Accordingly, Lough Oughter and Associated Loughs SAC has been included within the ZoI for assessment owing to the
presence of a downstream hydrological connection. The potential significance of this pathway is assessed in the
following sections having regard to the separation distance, intervening watercourses, dilution, settlement processes
and the nature of the proposed development.
No hydrological pathway exists between the proposed development site and Kilroosky Lough Cluster SAC (Site Code:
001786).
Disturbance Pathways
Potential disturbance effects during construction and operation include noise, vibration, lighting and increased human
activity.
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 24
Having regard to the nature of the proposed development, the surrounding agricultural landscape and the distances
to the nearest European Sites, disturbance effects are only considered potentially relevant within the immediate
vicinity of the proposed development site. A precautionary ZoI of 300 m has therefore been adopted for disturbance
pathways, consistent with accepted ecological guidance for similar developments.
No Qualifying Interest or Special Conservation Interest species associated with any European Site were recorded within
this area during the ecological surveys.
Air Quality Pathways
Potential air quality effects include construction dust and operational emissions associated with the CHP units, boiler,
digestate drying plant, emergency flare and odour control system.
Construction dust effects are generally limited to the immediate vicinity of construction activities. Accordingly, a
precautionary ZoI of 50 m has been adopted for construction dust, consistent with IAQM guidance.
Operational emissions have been assessed separately within the Air Quality Chapter of the EIAR, including
consideration of nitrogen oxides (NOx), ammonia (NH₃), particulate matter and nitrogen deposition. The findings of
that assessment have been taken into account in the Stage 1 Appropriate Assessment screening.
Groundwater Pathways
The proposed development site is underlain by a poorly productive bedrock aquifer with moderate groundwater
vulnerability. No significant groundwater pathways or hydrogeological connections to European Sites have been
identified. Nevertheless, groundwater has been considered as a potential pathway within the screening assessment
in accordance with the precautionary principle.
Summary of the Zone of Influence
Based on the characteristics of the proposed development and the receiving environment, the principal potential
pathways requiring consideration within this Appropriate Assessment Screening comprise:
• surface water pathways to downstream receiving waters;
• groundwater pathways;
• atmospheric emissions;
• construction dust;
• noise, vibration and lighting; and
• accidental pollution events.
The subsequent screening assessment considers whether any of these pathways could give rise to likely significant
effects on the Qualifying Features of the identified European Sites, either alone or in combination with other plans
or projects.
5.3 List of Relevant European Sites
An initial search identified all European Sites within a 15 km radius of the proposed development site, in accordance
with OPR Practice Note PN01 (2021). The list of sites was subsequently refined using the Source–Pathway–Receptor
(S-P-R) model to identify those European Sites for which a credible impact pathway exists.
Following this assessment, two Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) were identified for consideration within this Stage
1 Appropriate Assessment Screening (Table 1 and Figure 7). No Special Protection Areas (SPAs) occur within the 15 km
search radius.
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 25
• Kilroosky Lough Cluster SAC (Site Code: 001786) is located approximately 12.2 km north-west of the proposed
development site. No direct or indirect hydrological connectivity exists between the proposed development
site and this SAC.
• Lough Oughter and Associated Loughs SAC (Site Code: 000007) is located approximately 14.8 km south-west
of the proposed development site. A downstream hydrological connection exists via the agricultural drainage
network, the Coolkill Lough Stream, the Rockcorry Stream and the Dromore River. Accordingly, this SAC has
been taken forward for further assessment within this AA Screening.
The Qualifying Interests and Specific Conservation Objectives for these European Sites are summarised in the following
sections and considered in the Source–Pathway–Receptor assessment.
Table 1: European Sites located within or connected to the ZoI
Designated Site Site Code Straight-Line Distance from
Proposed Development (km)
Hydrological
Connectivity
Taken Forward
for Assessment
Kilroosky Lough Cluster SAC (001786) 12.2 km No Yes
Lough Oughter and Associated
Loughs SAC (000007) 14.8 km Yes (via Coolkill
Lough Stream)
Yes
The Qualifying Interests and Specific Conservation Objectives of these European Sites are reviewed below before
assessing each potential source–pathway–receptor linkage.
Figure 7: European Sites within 15km of the Proposed Development RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 26
5.4 Description of Relevant European Sites
A description of the relevant European sites, as identified in Section 5.3, is provided below. The descriptions are
collated using site synopses, conservation objectives, and other documents available on the NPWS
(https://www.npws.ie/protected-sites) and EPA (https://gis.epa.ie/EPAMaps/AAGeoTool) websites.
5.4.1 Kilroosky Lough Cluster SAC (001786)
Kilroosky Lough Cluster SAC is located approximately 12.2 km north-west of the proposed development site.
The SAC comprises a cluster of calcium-rich, oligo-mesotrophic lakes together with associated fen habitats. The site is
of particular ecological importance for its extensive hard water lakes, Cladium fen (a priority habitat) and alkaline fen,
all of which are listed on Annex I of the Habitats Directive.
The SAC also supports white-clawed crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes), an Annex II species whose conservation is
closely linked to maintaining high water quality and low sediment inputs.
The Specific Conservation Objectives (NPWS, 2016) seek to maintain or restore the favourable conservation condition
of the following Qualifying Interests:
Habitats
• [3140] Hard oligo-mesotrophic waters with benthic vegetation of Chara spp.;
• [7210] Calcareous fens with Cladium mariscus and species of the Caricion davallianae (priority habitat); and
• [7230] Alkaline fens.
Species
• [1092] White-clawed crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes)
5.4.2 Lough Oughter and Associated Loughs SAC (000007)
Lough Oughter and Associated Loughs SAC is located approximately 14.8 km south-west of the proposed development
site and is hydrologically connected via the Coolkill Lough Stream catchment.
The SAC comprises an extensive network of lakes, waterways and wetlands within the Erne catchment. It supports
important examples of Natural Eutrophic Lakes and Bog Woodland (a priority habitat) together with a population of
Otter (Lutra lutra), all of which are Qualifying Interests of the SAC.
The principal ecological sensitivities of the SAC relate to the maintenance of water quality, hydrological conditions and
suitable habitat for otter. Existing pressures include nutrient enrichment from agricultural runoff, wastewater
discharges and other catchment-scale land use activities.
The Specific Conservation Objectives (NPWS, 2016) seek to maintain or restore the favourable conservation condition
of the following Qualifying Interests:
Habitats
• [3150] Natural eutrophic lakes with Magnopotamion or Hydrocharition-type vegetation; and
• [91D0] Bog woodland (priority habitat).
Species RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 27
• [1355] Otter (Lutra lutra).
The principal ecological sensitivities of the identified European Sites relate to the maintenance of high water quality,
natural hydrological conditions and suitable habitat for the Qualifying Interests identified above. Consequently, the
subsequent screening assessment focuses primarily on potential pathways associated with surface water,
groundwater, atmospheric emissions, disturbance and accidental pollution.
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 28
5.5 Screening of Relevant European Sites
This subsection evaluates potential impacts on the European sites identified in Section 5.3, using the S-P-R model to
determine if there are likely significant effects on their QFs. The assessment considers the potential impacts outlined
in Section 5.1, the ZoI defined in Section 5.2, and the conservation objectives detailed in Section 5.4. The results are
summarised in Table 2 below, which assesses impacts across multiple criteria, including direct, indirect, and in-
combination effects, adopting a precautionary approach (EC, 2021).
As set out in Section 5 above, this screening assessment has been undertaken having regard to the Proposed Project
as designed, including the standard engineering and operational characteristics which would form part of the
Proposed Project irrespective of the presence or absence of any European Site. These inherent project characteristics
have been taken into account in identifying the nature and magnitude of potential emissions and source–pathway–
receptor linkages. No additional or site-specific measure introduced for the purpose of avoiding or reducing a harmful
effect on a European Site has been relied upon in reaching the Stage 1 screening conclusions..
Table 2: Screening Assessment of Relevant European Sites
European site(s) and
Approximate Distance
Potential
for Likely
Significant
Effects
Screening Rationale
Kilroosky Lough Cluster SAC
(001786)
Approx. 12.2 km north-west
No
Qualifying Interests: Hard oligo-mesotrophic waters with benthic
vegetation of Chara spp. (3140), Calcareous fens with Cladium mariscus
(7210*), Alkaline fens (7230) and White-clawed Crayfish
(Austropotamobius pallipes) (1092).
Direct Effects: The Renewable Biogas Plant and associated Linear Gas Grid
Connection are located entirely outside the SAC. No land take, habitat
loss, fragmentation or direct disturbance of the SAC or its Qualifying
Interests will occur.
Construction Phase: Construction of the Renewable Biogas Plant will
comprise temporary earthworks, concrete works, building construction
and installation of plant. Construction of the Linear Gas Grid Connection
will comprise short-term trench excavation, predominantly within the
existing public road corridor. Temporary construction activities have the
potential to generate dust, noise, vibration and accidental pollution.
However, no surface water or groundwater connection exists between the
project and the SAC, and the SAC lies well beyond recognised screening
distances for construction dust, noise and vibration. Consequently, no
credible construction-phase source–pathway–receptor linkage exists.
Operational Phase: The proposed development incorporates embedded
engineering and environmental protection measures as integral
components of the project design, including enclosed feedstock
reception, sealed digestion and digestate storage systems, impermeable
process areas, bunded storage, engineered drainage infrastructure,
attenuation and treatment systems, and permanent odour treatment
infrastructure comprising a biofilter and associated odour control
systems. These embedded design measures have been incorporated into
the Air Quality, Water Quality and Noise Assessments forming part of the
accompanying EIAR. Chapter 13 Air Quality of the EIAR considers the
potential for operational emissions to affect designated ecological
receptors and identifies no SAC or SPA within a 10 km operational air-
quality Zone of Influence. On that basis, no credible atmospheric pathway RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 29
capable of giving rise to a likely significant effect this European Sites has
been identified.
There is no hydrological or hydrogeological connectivity between the
project and the SAC and the operational buried gas pipeline will not
generate emissions or disturbance capable of affecting the SAC.
Conclusion: Having regard to the absence of direct, hydrological and
hydrogeological pathways, the separation distance, the findings of the
accompanying technical assessments and the inherent characteristics of
the proposed development, it can be excluded, on the basis of objective
scientific information, that the proposed development, either alone or in
combination with other plans or projects, will have a likely significant
effect on Kilroosky Lough Cluster SAC.
Lough Oughter and
Associated Loughs SAC
(000007)
Approx. 14.8 km south-west
(approximately 38 km
downstream by hydrological
pathway)
No
Qualifying Interests: Natural eutrophic lakes (3150), Bog woodland
(91D0*) and Otter (Lutra lutra) (1355).
Direct Effects: The Renewable Biogas Plant and associated Linear Gas Grid
Connection are located entirely outside the SAC and no direct habitat loss
or direct effects on the Qualifying Interests of the SAC will occur.
Construction Phase: A downstream hydrological pathway exists between
the Renewable Biogas Plant site and Lough Oughter and Associated
Loughs SAC via the agricultural drainage network, Coolkill Lough Stream,
Rockcorry Stream and Dromore River, over an approximate hydrological
distance of 38 km. Construction of the Renewable Biogas Plant has the
potential to generate conventional construction-related sources including
sediment-laden runoff, excavation water and accidental releases.
Construction of the Linear Gas Grid Connection will comprise temporary
and progressive works, predominantly within the existing public road
corridor.
The manner in which the Proposed Project will be constructed is subject
to generally applicable statutory requirements and established
construction-industry good practice, including CIRIA guidance for the
control of water pollution from construction sites and linear construction
projects. These construction practices would apply to the works
irrespective of the presence or absence of a European Site and have not
been introduced in response to the downstream hydrological connection
to Lough Oughter and Associated Loughs SAC.
Having regard to the nature and scale of the construction activities, the
standard manner in which such works will be undertaken, the
approximately 38 km downstream hydrological separation, the extensive
intervening watercourse network and the findings of the accompanying
Water Framework Directive and Water assessments, there is no credible
potential for construction of the Proposed Project to give rise to a likely
significant effect on the Qualifying Interests of Lough Oughter and
Associated Loughs SAC.
Operational Phase: The Renewable Biogas Plant incorporates engineered
surface water drainage, surface water treatment, attenuation, controlled
discharge, impermeable process areas, bunded storage and secondary
containment, sealed process drainage and containment of process liquors
as inherent characteristics of the facility. These systems arise from the
functional, engineering, drainage, pollution-control and regulatory RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 30
requirements of the facility and would form part of the Proposed
Development irrespective of the presence or absence of any European
Site. No untreated process wastewater will discharge to the receiving
surface water network.
Having regard to these inherent characteristics of the Proposed
Development, the nature and magnitude of the resulting operational
emissions, the approximately 38 km downstream hydrological pathway
and the findings of the accompanying Water Framework Direc tive and
Water assessments, no likely significant effect on the Qualifying Interests
of Lough Oughter and Associated Loughs SAC is predicted. Once
commissioned, the buried Linear Gas Grid Connection will comprise
passive underground infrastructure and will not generate routine
operational emissions, runoff, noise or disturbance capable of affecting
the SAC.
Conclusion: Although a downstream hydrological pathway exists, having
regard to the nature and scale of the potential sources, the approximately
38 km hydrological separation, the intervening receiving-water network,
the inherent characteristics of the Proposed Project and th e findings of
the accompanying Water Framework Directive, Water, Air Quality, Noise
and Biodiversity assessments, it can be excluded, on the basis of objective
scientific information, that the Proposed Project will have a likely
significant effect on Lough Oughter and Associated Loughs SAC..
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 31
Section 6: IN-COMBINATION AND CUMULATIVE EFFECTS
Article 6(3) of the Habitats Directive requires consideration of whether the proposed development, either alone or in
combination with other plans or projects, is likely to have a significant effect on any European Site in view of its
conservation objectives.
The purpose of the in-combination assessment is to determine whether the environmental effects of the proposed
Renewable Biogas Plant and associated Linear Gas Grid Connection, when considered alongside existing, permitted
and proposed developments, or relevant plans and programmes, could combine to give rise to likely significant
effects on the European Sites identified in Section 5.
6.1: Assessment Methodology
The in-combination assessment has been undertaken in accordance with the Department of Housing, Local
Government and Heritage Appropriate Assessment of Plans and Projects in Ireland – Guidance for Planning Authorities
(2010, updated 2023), OPR Practice Note PN01 (2021) and European Commission guidance (2021).
To inform the assessment, the following information sources were reviewed:
• Monaghan County Council Planning Register;
• Cavan County Council Planning Register;
• An Coimisiún Pleanála planning database;
• Monaghan County Development Plan 2025–2031;
• Cavan County Development Plan (where relevant to downstream hydrological pathways);
• River Basin Management Plan for Ireland;
• Inland Fisheries Ireland Corporate Plan 2021–2025 and Inland Fisheries Ireland Statement of Strategy 2026–
2030;
• EPA licensed facilities and associated environmental information; and
• Other existing, permitted and proposed developments located within the Coolkill Lough Stream catchment
and the wider receiving catchment where overlapping impact pathways could reasonably occur.
The assessment has focused on developments capable of sharing one or more of the following impact pathways with
the proposed development:
• surface water quality;
• groundwater;
• atmospheric emissions;
• noise and disturbance;
• habitat loss or fragmentation; and
• traffic and construction activity.
Projects which clearly do not share a source–pathway–receptor linkage with the identified European Sites have not
been considered further.
6.2: Existing and Permitted Plans and Projects
A review of planning applications and permitted developments within the vicinity of the proposed development
identified a range of developments including:
• one-off rural dwellings and domestic extensions;
• agricultural buildings and livestock facilities; RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 32
• poultry developments;
• commercial and industrial developments;
• renewable energy developments; and
• public infrastructure projects.
These developments are summarised in Table 3.
The majority comprise small-scale developments with localised environmental effects and do not share hydrological,
atmospheric or ecological pathways with the European Sites identified during this assessment.
The principal developments considered relevant to the in-combination assessment comprise:
• agricultural developments within the Coolkill Lough Stream catchment;
• existing and permitted poultry developments;
• EPA licensed industrial developments; and
• renewable energy infrastructure;
Table 3: Other projects in the locality (source: eplanning.ie).
Planning
Authority
App Ref
Number
Development Description Distance
from Red
Line (km)
Potential for Significant Cumulative Effect
Monaghan
County
Council
2460274 Permission to construct a calf
rearing livestock unit complete
with concrete apron and drains.
Significant Further Information
received relates to a revised Site
Layout Plan, a Nutrient
Management Plan, Nitrogen
Loading Details and other
documents.
0.6 Although, this planning application is 0.6 km away
from the redline boundary, the planning application
is approximately 0.2 km away from the proposed gas
pipeline. Potential for an in combination noise effect
between the proposed gas pipeline and the planning
application. Given the scale of the proposed gas
pipeline and the planning application, this shall not
result in any significant noise effects.
Monaghan
County
Council
22229 Permission to erect a two storey
dwelling house, insert a filter unit
and percolation area and exit on
to public road by way of existing
entrance
1.3 There is no pathway for a significant negative
cumulative effect to occur to any ecological receptor
between the Proposed Development and this
planning application.
Monaghan
County
Council
22312 Permission consisting of erection
of 1,300m2 or 250.24kWP of
photovoltaic panels on the roofs
of our existing manufacturing
buildings, in the factory; with all
associated site works
1.4 Although, this planning application is 1.4 km away
from the redline boundary, it is adjacent to the
proposed gas pipeline. This planning application shall
not result in any habitat loss. Moreover, the planning
application is approximately 950 m south of the
Crosslea (IE_NW_36D020600) waterbody. Given the
nature of the planning application, this is deemed a
sufficient setback zone as to not result in any
cumulative impact between the proposed
development and the proposed gas pipeline.
Monaghan
County
Council
21178 Permission for a development
consisting of the
decommissioning of existing
septic tank and provision of a
new wastewater treatment
system and percolation area
together with all associated site
development works
2 There is no pathway for a significant negative
cumulative effect to occur to any ecological receptor
between the Proposed Development and this
planning application.
Monaghan
County
Council
21189 Permission to construct a two
storey style dwelling house &
detached domestic garage, install
new mechanical effluent
treatment system,
2 There is no pathway for a significant negative
cumulative effect to occur to any ecological receptor
between the Proposed Development and this
planning application. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 33
Planning
Authority
App Ref
Number
Development Description Distance
from Red
Line (km)
Potential for Significant Cumulative Effect
raised/mounded soil based
percolation area, new domestic
entrance onto existing public
road together with all ancillary
site works
Monaghan
County
Council
21177 Permission for a development
consisting of a new two-storey
dwelling, associated detached
external store, opening of a new
vehicular entrance to site and
wastewater treatment system
and percolation area together
with all associated site
development works. Significant
further information relates to
revised drawings.
2 There is no pathway for a significant negative
cumulative effect to occur to any ecological receptor
between the Proposed Development and this
planning application.
Monaghan
County
Council
2491 Permission to construct a new
poultry unit together with new
agricultural entrance, hardened
areas, vertical meal bins,
underground washings tanks and
all ancillary site works
2.2 There is no pathway for a significant negative
cumulative effect to occur to any ecological receptor
between the Proposed Development and this
planning application.
Monaghan
County
Council
21506 Permission that consists of
construction of a slatted cubicle
house with underground slurry
storage tank together with all
ancillary site development works
2.3 There is no pathway for a significant negative
cumulative effect to occur to any ecological receptor
between the Proposed Development and this
planning application.
Monaghan
County
Council
21272 Permission for a development
consisting of a new single storey
extension to front and side of
existing school, alterations to
elevations, toilet facilities,
multipurpose room, signage,
connection to on site services
and associated works
2.5 This planning application is greater than 200 m from
any watercourse and the scale of the planning
application is not large enough to contribute to the
effects of the proposed development.
Monaghan
County
Council
2560449 Permission for the proposed
works will comprise of alterations
to existing Potting Sheds and
change of use to Artist's Studios
(previously approved PL 19/574).
Works will include an increase in
floor area, alterations to the floor
plan and elevations,
development of a ramp access,
canopy and alterations to the
external staircase to the tower.
Also pergola/ramp link between
Potting Sheds and Dance Studio
and internal alterations to Dance
Studio. All to include external
works and
connections/alterations to site
services and all associated site
works. All within the curtilage of
a Recorded Protected Structure,
ref No. 41401716.
2.5 There is no pathway for a significant negative
cumulative effect to occur to any ecological receptor
between the Proposed Development and this
planning application.
Monaghan
County
Council
239013 Permission to revise the
proposed development granted
permission Planning Ref: 18/57,
by providing for: a) extensions to
the 2 No. Proposed poultry
2.6 There is no pathway for a significant negative
cumulative effect to occur to any ecological receptor
between the Proposed Development and this
planning application. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 34
Planning
Authority
App Ref
Number
Development Description Distance
from Red
Line (km)
Potential for Significant Cumulative Effect
houses, and, b) a supplementary
extension to the existing poultry
house (in addition to the
extension previously approved)
together with all ancillary
structures and ancillary site
works on, and or, adjacent to an
existing poultry farm. This
application relates to a
development, which is for the
purposes of an activity (Licensing)
Regulation 1994 to 2013. An
Environmental Impact
Assessment Report (EIAR) will be
submitted with this planning
application
Monaghan
County
Council
22479 Permission to construct a new
single storey art studio and use
existing site entrance together
with all ancillary site works
2.8 There is no pathway for a significant negative
cumulative effect to occur to any ecological receptor
between the Proposed Development and this
planning application.
Monaghan
County
Council
2460027 Permission for development
consisting of the extension and
renovation of existing terrace of
5 houses comprising of: 04 No. 02
storey, 03-bedroom houses and
01 No. 03 storey 04-bedroom
house, upgrade existing foul and
surface water connections to
public sewers, together with all
associated site works.
2.8 There is no pathway for a significant negative
cumulative effect to occur to any ecological receptor
between the Proposed Development and this
planning application.
Cavan County
Council
2560192 To carry out the following
alterations & works to an existing
dwelling house. (1) To construct a
new single storey extension to
side of existing dwelling house
building, and (2) To upgrade
existing septic tank system to a
new approved proprietary
wastewater treatment system &
percolation area, together with
all associated site development
works
2.8 There is no pathway for a significant negative
cumulative effect to occur to any ecological receptor
between the Proposed Development and this
planning application.
Monaghan
County
Council
2560015 Permission for the extension and
renovation of the existing house,
shop and the adjoining Gospel
Hall comprising of: Provision of a
new conference room and WC
facilities on the ground floor with
1 no 3 bedroom apartment over,
an additional detached Pastoral
Hub to the rear, improved access
and toilet facilities to the Gospel
Hall and permanent retention of
a storage shed and a car parking
area, Significant Further
Information relates to submitted,
revised drawings
2.8 There is no pathway for a significant negative
cumulative effect to occur to any ecological receptor
between the Proposed Development and this
planning application.
Monaghan
County
Council
21223 Permission for development at
this site at the building known as
Anderson's Pub, Drum, Co.
Monaghan. The building is as a
2.9 There is no pathway for a significant negative
cumulative effect to occur to any ecological receptor
between the Proposed Development and this
planning application. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 35
Planning
Authority
App Ref
Number
Development Description Distance
from Red
Line (km)
Potential for Significant Cumulative Effect
protected structure of local
importance in the Monaghan
County Development Plan 2019-
2025 under the title 'Anderson's
Pub' (ref. no.: Local 80). The
development will consist of
works including (i) alterations to
the internal layouts of the
previously approved planning
application ref. 19/575 (ii)
conversion of existing stores at
ground floor level to guest
accommodation with annex and
the addition of new external
steps to provide access, (iii)
conversion of an alterations to 2
no. stables at lower ground floor
to create guest accommodation,
(iv) repair and thermal upgrade
of the external fabric of the
property including repair works
to the existing windows, (v)
refurbishment of glazing and
shop front to front façade and
(vi) all associated site works
Monaghan
County
Council
22497;
20433
Permission for development
consisting of: Expansion to
existing facility to provide
additional warehouse capacity of
443.50sqm, laboratory area of
327.2sqm, ancillary office & staff
facilities of 951.10sqm over 4
storeys, with an overall height of
15.8m from ground level. The
change of use of existing
warehouse area to accommodate
a tower which will facilitate
ingredient storage & blending
with a floor area of 2134.2sqm
with an overall height 22.7m
from ground level. Expansion to
rear of existing facility to
accommodate 4no.powder silos
with floor area of 776.1sqm over
5 storeys. Overall height 20.8
metres from ground level.
Additional first floor office of
42.8sq.m within existing
warehouse. First floor 4.2 metres
above ground floor, overall
height 7m from ground level.
Demolition and removal of
existing prefabricated office
building. Overall height 3m from
ground level, floor area of
274.7sqm. New standalone water
treatment plant, floor area of
463.6sqm and associated
equipment, plant, yard & the
height of highest tank is 15.4m
from ground level. 3no. existing
water tanks to be relocated from
2.9 This planning application had been appealed to An
Coimisiún Pleanála whereby the latest appeal had a
decision of ‘Application for leave refused.’ Thus,
there is no potential for a cumulative effect between
the proposed development and this planning
application. An AA screening was undertaken for this
development, which concluded that even in the
absence of any mitigation measures there will be no
significant effect, either individually or in
combination with other plans or projects, on
European site(s) in view of the site’s conservation
objectives RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 36
Planning
Authority
App Ref
Number
Development Description Distance
from Red
Line (km)
Potential for Significant Cumulative Effect
within existing facility &
incorporated within new water
treatment plant. 3no. existing
water tanks and existing water
treatment equipment to be
removed off site. Installation of
new 250mm diameter water ring
main around the north and east
of the existing facility building.
Provision of a temporary
construction compound to the
north of existing car parks
comprising a total of 1750sqm.
Ancillary works will also include
for; relocation of staff shelter,
removal of existing bicycle
shelter & provision of new bicycle
shelter, realigning existing
kerbing, relocation of
underground surface water
sampling points, associated car
parking spaces which
incorporates 10no. electric
vehicle charge spaces along with
associated ducting and services
within the proposed car parks. All
associated site development /
construction works required to
facilitate the proposal along with
connection to existing foul water,
storm water & service networks.
The Abbott Ireland Cootehill site
operates in compliance with a
licence issued under Part IV of
the Environmental Protection
Agency Act 1992 (as amended by
the Protection of the
Environment Act,2003)
An Coimisiún
Pleanála
(ACP)
ACP
309119-21
110kV loop-in/loop-out
substation including substation
compound, associated electrical
plant and apparatus
3.1 This Planning Application is not adjacent to any
water body thus there is no hydrological connection
between the planning application and the Proposed
Development. Moreover, due to the distance
between the planning application with the proposed
development, there is no potential for the Proposed
Development and this planning application to give
rise to cumulative effects to habitat loss, noise
disturbance and air quality effects that may
negatively affect any European Sites.
There is no pathway for a significant negative
cumulative effect to occur to any ecological receptor
between the Proposed Development and this
planning application.
Monaghan
County
Council
19486 A ten year permission for the
development of 8 no. wind
turbines, each with a maximum
tip height of up to 180 metres;
and all associated site
development, reinstatement,
temporary and ancillary works
including turbine foundations,
crane hardstands
5 This Planning Application is not adjacent to any
water body thus there is no hydrological connection
between the planning application and the Proposed
Development. Moreover, due to the distance
between the planning application with the proposed
development, there is no potential for the Proposed
Development and this planning application to give
rise to cumulative effects to habitat loss, noise RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 37
Planning
Authority
App Ref
Number
Development Description Distance
from Red
Line (km)
Potential for Significant Cumulative Effect
disturbance and air quality effects that may
negatively affect any European site.
There is no pathway for a significant negative
cumulative effect to occur to any ecological receptor
between the Proposed Development and this
planning application.
Monaghan
County
Council
21510 To amend the approved
development (Planning
Reference: 16/507) of a
temporary (25 years) solar farm
to include photovoltaic panels
with mounting frames on screw
pile foundations, inverters,
transformers, substation, DNO
building, communications build
5.2 This Planning Application is adjacent to a river water
body, however, there is no hydrological connection
between the planning application and the Proposed
Development. Moreover, due to the distance
between the planning application and the proposed
development, there is no potential for cumulative
effects to arise to habitat loss, noise disturbance and
air quality effects t5hat may negatively affect any
European Sites.
Monaghan
County
Council
21136 Permission to consist of a minor
amendment to the development
permitted under Monaghan
County Council Planning Register
Reference 19/486 to revise the
alignment of the permitted
access track between wind
turbines T2 and T3.
5.5 This Planning Application is adjacent to a river water
body, however, there is no hydrological connection
between the planning application and the Proposed
Development. Moreover, due to the distance
between the Planning Application, there is no
potential for the Proposed Development and this
planning application to give rise to cumulative
effects to habitat loss, noise disturbance and air
quality effects.
There is no pathway for a significant negative
cumulative effect to occur to any ecological receptor
between the Proposed Development and this
planning application.
Monaghan
County
Council
2660140 Retention of the existing single
storey sports hall and associated
site works at Tonnagh Rd.,
Rockcorry, Co. Monaghan
1.4 There is no pathway for a significant negative
cumulative effect to occur to any ecological receptor
between the Proposed Development and this
planning application.
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 38
Table 4: Plans associated with the Proposed Development
Programmes,
Plans and
Projects
High Level
Overview of the
Plan
Key Policies/Issues/Objectives
Directly Related to the Conservation
of the Natura 2000 Network
Potential for In-combination
Effects
Inland Fisheries
Ireland Corporate
Plan 2021 -2025
Inland Fisheries
Ireland Statement of
Strategy 2026–2030
This plan outlines the
vision, mission , values
and strategic objectives
of IFI for the period of
the plan (2021-2025).
The IFI Corporate Plan outlines seven strategic
objectives for 2021–2025, focusing on
sustainable management of inland fisheries and
ecosystems. Actions and outcomes aim to
enhance biodiversity. Key objectives include
habitat protection and fishery sustainability.
Compliance with IFI objectives
supports positive in-combination
effects on European sites by
enhancing aquatic biodiversity. The
proposed development’s mitigation
(e.g., silt control) complements IFI
goals, ensuring no adverse
cumulative impacts on fisheries or
connected European sites. There
was no identified actions or
outcomes that will have a negative
cumulative impact with the
Proposed Development.
Inland Fisheries
Ireland Statement of
Strategy 2026–2030
The Inland Fisheries
Ireland Statement of
Strategy 2026–2030 sets
out IFI’s strategic
direction for the five-
year period 2026 to
2030. It reflects IFI’s
statutory role in the
protection,
management and
conservation of Ireland’s
inland fisheries and sea
angling resources and
seeks to ensure that
these resources are
managed sustainably for
current and future
generations. The
Strategy places
emphasis on the
protection and
resilience of aquatic
ecosystems, sustainable
fisheries management,
evidence-based
decision-making,
climate resilience and
stakeholder
engagement..
The Strategy includes objectives and actions
directed towards protecting aquatic habitats
and species, improving the resilience and
ecological condition of inland waters,
supporting sustainable fisheries management,
responding to pressures arising from climate
change and pollution, and working with public
authorities and other stakeholders to protect
and restore aquatic ecosystems. These
objectives are consistent with the protection of
water-dependent habitats and species which
may form Qualifying Interests or Special
Conservation Interests of European Sites.
Implementation of the Strategy is
directed towards the protection,
conservation and sustainable
management of inland fisheries and
aquatic ecosystems. No objectives
or actions have been identified
which would be expected to
combine with the Proposed Project
to give rise to likely significant
effects on a European Site.
Accordingly, no likely significant in-
combination effects are identified.
Monaghan County
Development Plan
2025 – 2031
This Plan was adopted
on the 26th May 2025.
This Plan provides an
overarching strategy for
the sustainable planning
and development for
County Monaghan for
the period of the Plan.
The following policies are considered relevant
to the Proposed Development in conjunction
with biodiversity:
• EDP 4: The Best Available Technology
(BAT) principle will be required to ensure
the protection of the environment with
regard to pollution mitigation in respect of
proposed developments.
The proposed development must
comply with the Monaghan County
Development Plan. This shall
support a positive in-combination
effect on European sites by
enhancing and safeguarding
biodiversity. The Monaghan County
Development Plan’s policies and
objectives , ensures there shall not RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 39
Programmes,
Plans and
Projects
High Level
Overview of the
Plan
Key Policies/Issues/Objectives
Directly Related to the Conservation
of the Natura 2000 Network
Potential for In-combination
Effects
• HCLSO 1: To promote and encourage the
conservation and preservation of the
County’s natural environment, cultural
heritage and amenities in accordance with
legislation, plans and policies developed to
specifically address these areas and to
ensure a rich cultural landscape, healthy
environment and the full provision of
ecosystems services in the County.
• HCLP 1: No projects giving rise to
significant cumulative, direct, indirect or
secondary impacts on European sites
arising from their size or scale, land take,
proximity, resource requirements,
emissions (disposal to land, water or air),
transportation requirements, duration of
construction, operation, decommissioning
or from any other effects shall be
permitted on the basis of this plan (either
individually or in combination with other
plans or projects).
• HCLP 2: To protect the landscapes and
natural environments of the County by
ensuring that any new developments in
designated sensitive rural landscapes do
not detrimentally impact on the character,
integrity, distinctiveness or scenic value of
the area. Any development which could
unduly impact upon such landscapes shall
be resisted.
• HCLP 6: Protect, conserve and enhance
natural heritage, insofar as practicable
having regard to the remit of the Council;
including European sites (SPAs and SACs),
proposed Natura Heritage Areas (pNHAs),
other designated sites, and non-
designated areas of high nature
conservation value known as locally
important areas which also serve as
‘Stepping Stones’ for the purposes of
Article 10 of the Habitats Directive,
improving the ecological coherence of
European sites
• HLCP 7: Prevent the carrying out of
development that would destroy or
significantly alter, damage or interfere
with the integrity of a pNHA/NHA, or any
of its species, communities, habitats;
landforms or geological or
geomorphological features; or on its
diversity of natural attributes
• HLCP 8: Any plan or project which is likely
to impact on the conservation objectives
of a European site shall be screened for
Appropriate Assessment (AA) and where
pertinent, a Stage 2 Appropriate
Assessment (Natura Impact Statement)
shall be undertaken in order to make a
determination. European sites outside the
County and located within 15km of the
be no adverse effects on European
sites. There were no identified
actions or outcomes that will have a
negative cumulative impact with
the Proposed Development. Any
development associated with the
Monaghan County Development
Plan that may have the potential to
give rise to negative effects to any
European site shall be subject to EU
Habitats Directive (Council Directive
92/43/EEC), specifically Article 6(3)
ensuring that there will be no
adverse effects to any European site
individually or in combination with
other projects.
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 40
Programmes,
Plans and
Projects
High Level
Overview of the
Plan
Key Policies/Issues/Objectives
Directly Related to the Conservation
of the Natura 2000 Network
Potential for In-combination
Effects
proposed development site should also be
screened for Appropriate Assessment. A
Natura Impact Statement shall
incorporate a written statement which
sets out mitigation measures to prevent
the risk of invasive species on to a
European site.
• HCLP 9: Development within the vicinity of
groundwater or surface water dependent
European sites (Kilroosky Lough Cluster
SAC) will not be permitted where there is
potential for a likely significant impact
upon the groundwater or surface water
supply to the European site. Where
appropriate, the applicant shall
demonstrate with hydro-geological
evidence, that the proposed development
will not adversely affect the quality or
quantity of groundwater or surface water
supply to the European sites.
• HCLP 10: The effects of agriculture related
air pollution on habitats and species shall
be considered by the Planning Authority
when deciding on planning applications
for significantly scaled agriculture
development proposals. Where necessary,
Applicants shall be asked to provide
appropriate supporting air dispersion
modelling and ecological assessment -
completed in accordance with relevant
guidelines -confirming proposals will not
generate adverse effects on protected
species or designated sites in Ireland or
Northern Ireland.
• ISO 1: To support, as appropriate, the
National Parks and Wildlife Service’s
efforts to seek to control and manage the
spread of non-native invasive species on
land and water. Where the presence of
non-native invasive species is identified at
the site of any proposed development or
where the proposed activity has an
elevated risk of resulting in the presence
of these species, details of how these
species will be
managed and controlled will be required.
• ISP 1: To ensure that development
proposals do not lead to the spread of
invasive species and to ensure that
landscaping proposals do not include
invasive species.
The following objectives are considered
relevant to the Proposed Development in
conjunction with biodiversity:
• AGFO 3 : To protect natural waters,
wildlife habitats, conservation areas,
heritage areas, prominent landscape
features, archaeological sites, nature
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 41
Programmes,
Plans and
Projects
High Level
Overview of the
Plan
Key Policies/Issues/Objectives
Directly Related to the Conservation
of the Natura 2000 Network
Potential for In-combination
Effects
designations and scenic routes within
forest sites from pollution or injury.
• HCLO 2: To contribute as appropriate
towards the protection of designated sites
in compliance with relevant EU Directives
and applicable National Legislation.
• HCLO 4: To support the implementation of
any relevant recommendations contained
in the National Biodiversity Action Plan
2020 - 2030, Heritage Ireland 2030, the All
– Ireland Pollination Plan 2021 - 2025 and
the National Peatlands Strategy and any
new or updated/subsequent versions.
• HCLO 12: To cumulatively contribute
towards, in combination with other users
and bodies, the achievement of the
objectives of the regulatory framework for
environmental protection and
management, including compliance with
EU Directives – such as the Habitats
Directive (92/43/EEC, as amended), the
Birds Directive (2009/147/EC), the
Environmental Impact Assessment
Directive (2011/92/EU, as amended by
2014/52/EC) and the Strategic
Environmental Assessment Directive
(2001/42/EC), and relevant transposing
Regulations.
• HCLO 18: A Construction Environmental
Management Plan shall be prepared and
implemented for all development
projects, were appropriate, that may give
rise to significant, adverse construction
related environmental effects.
• GIO 4: To contribute towards the
protection and enhancement of
biodiversity and ecological connectivity,
including woodlands, trees, hedgerows,
wetlands, rivers, streams, other landscape
features and associated wildlife where
these form part of the ecological network
and/or may be considered as ecological
corridors or stepping stones in the context
of Article 10 of the Habitats Directive.
• ISO 1: To support, as appropriate, the
National Parks and Wildlife Service’s
efforts to seek to control and manage the
spread of non-native invasive species on
land and water. Where the presence of
non-native invasive species is identified at
the site of any proposed development or
where the proposed activity has an
elevated risk of resulting in the presence
of these species, details of how these
species will be managed and controlled
will be required.
• REO 3: To facilitate the sustainable
development, renewal and maintenance
of energy generation infrastructure in
order to maintain a secure energy supply RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 42
6.3: Assessment of Potential In-Combination Effects
Surface Water
Programmes,
Plans and
Projects
High Level
Overview of the
Plan
Key Policies/Issues/Objectives
Directly Related to the Conservation
of the Natura 2000 Network
Potential for In-combination
Effects
while protecting the landscape,
archaeological and built heritage and
having regard to the provisions of the
Habitats Directive and other
environmental and ecological
considerations.
• REO 4: To support the production of
sustainable energy from renewable
sources such as wind, solar, bio-energy
and the development of waste to
energy/combined heat and power
schemes at suitable locations and subject
to compliance with the relevant planning
policy, the Habitats Directive, and other
environmental considerations.
• REO 6: To support and promote the use of
renewable energy technologies in the
conversion and re-use of existing built
developments
• REO 10: To support the sustainable
development, upgrading and maintenance
of energy, generation, transmission,
storage and distribution infrastructure, to
ensure the security of energy supply and
provide for future needs, whilst also
ensuring the protection of the landscape,
natural, archaeological and built heritage,
and residential amenity.
REO 12: Support and facilitate proposals for
hybrid energy systems and/or co-location of
renewable energy where applicable where such
development has satisfactorily demonstrated
that it will not have adverse impacts on the
surrounding environment.
The Water Action
Plan 2024: A River
Basin Management
Plan
This Plan outlines the
measures necessary for
the protection and
restoration of water
quality within the
Republic of Ireland. The
overarching aim of this
plan is to ensure that all
natural water resources
are sustainably
managed. This Plan
comprises of a list of
actions that must be
achieved up until 2027.
The following actions are considered relevant
to the Proposed Development:
• Hymo2: DHLGH will lead the development
of a new enhanced and consolidated
legislative regime to address pressures on
the physical condition of waters.
• Land-Use 1: Finalise guidelines for the
incorporation of the Water Framework
Directive into the planning system and
rollout of training on the new water and
planning guidelines to practitioners.
• Land-Use 2: Legislative provision to give
effect to the new Water and Planning
Guidance to be progressed.
Action 6.3: DHLGH will establish a Programme
Delivery Office to oversee and co-ordinate the
many relevant bodies that manage, implement
and enforce legislation and policies relevant to
the Water Framework Directive.
Implementation ensures
compliance with environmental
objectives for water bodies,
benefiting water-dependent
habitats and species in European
sites. No adverse in-combination
effects with the proposed
development are anticipated.
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 43
The principal pathway through which potential in-combination effects could arise is via surface water. A downstream
hydrological pathway exists from the Renewable Biogas Plant site through the Coolkill Lough Stream, Rockcorry Stream
and Dromore River to Lough Oughter and Associated Loughs SAC.
Construction of the Renewable Biogas Plant and Linear Gas Grid Connection has the potential to generate conventional
temporary construction-related sources including sediment-laden runoff, excavation water and accidental releases.
As described in Section 5, construction of the Proposed Project will be undertaken in accordance with generally
applicable statutory requirements and established construction-industry good practice which apply irrespective of the
presence of a European Site.
During operation, the Renewable Biogas Plant incorporates standard inherent engineering features including
engineered drainage, surface water treatment and attenuation, controlled discharge, impermeable process areas,
secondary containment and management of process liquors. These features would form part of the facility irrespective
of the presence or absence of a European Site. The accompanying Water Framework Directive and Water assessments
conclude that the Proposed Project will not result in deterioration of the relevant receiving waterbodies.
The projects and activities considered in Section 6.2 have been reviewed for the potential to give rise to overlapping
hydrological pathways. Having regard to the nature and scale of the Proposed Project, the approximately 38 km
downstream hydrological separation to Lough Oughter and Associated Loughs SAC, the intervening receiving-water
network and the characteristics of the other projects considered, no likely significant in-combination effect on the
Qualifying Interests of the SAC is predicted via the surface water pathway.
No hydrological pathway exists between the Proposed Project and Kilroosky Lough Cluster SAC. Accordingly, no likely
significant in-combination effect is identified in respect of that SAC via surface water.
Atmospheric Emissions
Potential cumulative atmospheric effects associated with ammonia, nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, acid
deposition and nitrogen deposition have been considered.
The accompanying Air Quality Assessment demonstrates that emissions associated with the proposed development,
assessed on the basis of the embedded design of the facility, remain below the applicable screening thresholds for
European Sites.
Nearby developments comprise predominantly agricultural, residential and commercial developments which either:
• are not significant atmospheric emission sources; or
• are subject to separate environmental regulation.
No overlapping atmospheric pathway has been identified capable of adversely affecting the Qualifying Interests of
either European Site.
Accordingly, no likely significant in-combination effects are predicted.
Construction Activities
Temporary cumulative construction activity may occur where other developments are being constructed
concurrently with the proposed development.
Construction of the Renewable Biogas Plant and Linear Gas Grid Connection will, however, be temporary in duration,
localised in extent and progressively undertaken.
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 44
The gas pipeline will be installed in discrete sections, limiting the spatial extent of active construction at any one
time.
Having regard to the nature, scale, temporary duration and progressive character of the construction activities,
together with the substantial separation distances to the identified European Sites, no likely significant in-combination
construction effect is predicted..
Noise, Vibration and Disturbance
Temporary construction noise and operational noise have been considered together with other nearby
developments.
The identified European Sites are located well beyond recognised screening distances for construction noise,
vibration and lighting.
No Qualifying Interest species associated with these European Sites occur within distances where cumulative
disturbance effects could arise.
Accordingly, no likely significant in-combination effects are identified.
Habitat Loss and Ecological Connectivity
Habitat loss associated with the proposed development is confined to the application site and the associated
pipeline corridor.
No other developments reviewed would combine with the proposed development to result in habitat loss, habitat
fragmentation or loss of ecological connectivity affecting the Qualifying Interests of the identified European Sites.
6.4 Conclusion
The proposed Renewable Biogas Plant and associated Linear Gas Grid Connection have been assessed in combination
with relevant statutory plans and programmes together with existing, permitted and proposed developments within
the surrounding area and the receiving catchment.
The assessment considered all credible overlapping source–pathway–receptor linkages including:
• surface water;
• groundwater;
• atmospheric emissions;
• construction activities;
• noise and disturbance;
• habitat loss and ecological connectivity; and
• traffic.
Having regard to:
• the inherent characteristics of the Proposed Project, including standard engineering features incorporated
irrespective of the presence or absence of a European Site;
• the nature, scale and duration of the potential construction and operational sources associated with the
Proposed Project;
• the findings of the accompanying Water Framework Directive, Water, Air Quality, Noise and Biodiversity
assessments; RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 45
• the temporary and progressive nature of construction of the Linear Gas Grid Connection;
• the separation distances and intervening environmental pathways between the Proposed Project and the
identified European Sites; and
• the absence of any overlapping source-pathway-receptor linkage capable of giving rise to a likely significant
in-combination effect on the Qualifying Interests of the identified European Sites,
it can be excluded, on the basis of objective scientific information, that the proposed development, either alone or in
combination with other plans or projects, will have a likely significant effect on:
• Kilroosky Lough Cluster SAC (001786); or
• Lough Oughter and Associated Loughs SAC (000007).
Accordingly, the proposed development does not require progression to Stage 2 Appropriate Assessment (Natura
Impact Statement).
Section 7: SCREENING DETERMINATION
This section presents the conclusions of the Stage 1 Appropriate Assessment Screening undertaken for the proposed
Renewable Biogas Plant and associated Linear Gas Grid Connection in accordance with Article 6(3) of Council Directive
92/43/EEC (the Habitats Directive).
The purpose of the screening has been to determine whether the proposed development, either alone or in
combination with other plans or projects, is likely to have a significant effect on any European Site in view of its
conservation objectives.
7.1 Summary of Screening Findings
The Stage 1 Screening identified two European Sites for consideration in the screening assessment::
• Kilroosky Lough Cluster SAC (001786); and
• Lough Oughter and Associated Loughs SAC (000007).
The assessment was undertaken using the Source–Pathway–Receptor (S-P-R) model and considered both the
Renewable Biogas Plant and the associated Linear Gas Grid Connection during the construction and operational phases
of the proposed development.
The assessment considered the Proposed Project as designed, including its standard inherent engineering and
operational characteristics and the generally applicable manner in which construction works will be undertaken. As
set out in Section 5, these features and practices would apply irrespective of the presence or absence of any European
Site. No additional or site-specific measure introduced for the purpose of avoiding or reducing a harmful effect on a
European Site has been relied upon in reaching the Stage 1 screening determination.
The principal findings are summarised below.
Kilroosky Lough Cluster SAC (001786)
Kilroosky Lough Cluster SAC is located approximately 12.2 km north-west of the proposed development.
The assessment identified no direct, hydrological, hydrogeological or atmospheric pathway between the proposed
development and the SAC. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 46
The Renewable Biogas Plant and associated Linear Gas Grid Connection are located entirely outside the SAC and there
is no potential for direct habitat loss or disturbance of the Qualifying Interests of the site.
The accompanying Air Quality Assessment demonstrates that atmospheric emissions associated with the proposed
development remain below the applicable screening thresholds for European Sites, while the accompanying Water
Framework Directive Assessment and Chapter 10 Water (Hydrology & Hydrogeology) of the EIAR confirms that no
hydrological pathway exists between the proposed development and this SAC.
Accordingly, it can be excluded, on the basis of objective scientific information, that the proposed development will
have a likely significant effect on Kilroosky Lough Cluster SAC.
Lough Oughter and Associated Loughs SAC (000007)
Lough Oughter and Associated Loughs SAC is located approximately 14.8 km from the proposed development, with
an approximate downstream hydrological pathway of 38 km.
A downstream hydrological pathway exists between the Renewable Biogas Plant site and Lough Oughter and
Associated Loughs SAC via the Coolkill Lough Stream, Rockcorry Stream and Dromore River, over an approximate
hydrological distance of 38 km.
The assessment has had regard to the nature and scale of potential construction and operational sources, the
substantial downstream separation, the intervening receiving-water network and the standard inherent engineering
and operational characteristics of the Proposed Development. The accompanying Water Framework Directive and
Water assessments conclude that no deterioration of the relevant receiving waterbodies is predicted, while the Air
Quality, Noise and Biodiversity assessments do not identify another credible pathway capable of giving rise to a likely
significant effect on the Qualifying Interests of the SAC.
Accordingly, it can be excluded, on the basis of objective scientific information, that the Proposed Project will have a
likely significant effect on Lough Oughter and Associated Loughs SAC.
.
In-combination Effects
The proposed development was assessed in combination with relevant statutory plans and programmes together with
existing, permitted and proposed developments within the surrounding area and the receiving catchment.
No overlapping source–pathway–receptor linkages capable of affecting the identified European Sites were identified.
Accordingly, it can be excluded, on the basis of objective scientific information, that the proposed development, either
alone or in combination with other plans or projects, will have a likely significant effect on any European Site.
7.2 Screening Determination
The proposed development:
• is not directly connected with, or necessary to, the management of any European Site;
• has been assessed in accordance with Article 6(3) of the Habitats Directive using the Source–Pathway–
Receptor model;
• has been assessed as comprising both the proposed Renewable Biogas Plant and the associated Linear Gas
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Screening For Appropriate Assessment 47
• has been assessed having regard to the standard inherent engineering and operational characteristics of the
Proposed Project which would form part of the project irrespective of the presence or absence of a European
Site;
• does not rely upon any additional or site-specific mitigation measure introduced for the purpose of avoiding
or reducing a harmful effect on a European Site in reaching the Stage 1 screening determination;
• has been considered alongside the findings of the accompanying Water Quality, Air Quality, Noise and
Biodiversity Assessments; and
• has been assessed both alone and in combination with other plans and projects.
On the basis of objective scientific information and applying the precautionary principle, it can be excluded that the
proposed development, either alone or in combination with other plans or projects, will have a likely significant effect
on:
• Kilroosky Lough Cluster SAC (001786); or
• Lough Oughter and Associated Loughs SAC (000007),
in view of their conservation objectives.
Accordingly, it is concluded that the proposed development does not require Stage 2 Appropriate Assessment, and
the preparation of a Natura Impact Statement (NIS) is not required.
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
Proposed Renewable Biogas Plant, Drum August 2026
Screening For Appropriate Assessment 48
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RECEIVED: 28/08/2026