HomeMy WebLinkAbout2660018 - F.I. Received Doc. - EIAR - Non-Technical Summary
August 2026
VOLUME I
NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY
Stream BioEnergy Ireland Limited
PROPOSED RENEWABLE BIOGAS PLANT
IN THE TOWNLANDS OF
MAGHERNAKELLY AND DRUMCALL,
DRUM, CO. MONAGHAN.
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 1
Table of Contents
1 Introduction ............................................................................................................................... 3
1.1 Screening for Environmental Impact Assessment ..................................................................... 5
1.2 Competency ............................................................................................................................... 5
1.3 Methodology .............................................................................................................................. 6
2 Project Description ..................................................................................................................... 8
2.1 Proposed Development ............................................................................................................. 8
2.2 Local Agricultural & Environmental Context .............................................................................. 8
2.3 Site Description ........................................................................................................................ 10
2.4 Plant Design.............................................................................................................................. 11
2.5 Facility Operating Hours ........................................................................................................... 15
2.6 Operational Employment ......................................................................................................... 15
2.7 Environmental Management and Monitoring ......................................................................... 15
2.8 Odour Control .......................................................................................................................... 16
2.9 Local Amenity Protection ......................................................................................................... 16
2.10 Traffic and Access ..................................................................................................................... 16
2.11 Landscaping .............................................................................................................................. 17
2.12 Services and Infrastructure ...................................................................................................... 17
2.13 Construction Phase .................................................................................................................. 20
2.14 Health and Safety ..................................................................................................................... 23
2.15 Decommissioning ..................................................................................................................... 24
3 Alternatives Considered ........................................................................................................... 25
3.1 Do-Nothing Scenario ................................................................................................................ 25
3.2 Alternative Locations ............................................................................................................... 26
3.3 Alternative Scale ...................................................................................................................... 28
3.4 Alternative Design .................................................................................................................... 29
3.5 Alternative Processes ............................................................................................................... 30
4 Assessment of Environmental Impacts .................................................................................... 32
4.1 Population & Human Heath ..................................................................................................... 32
4.2 Landscape & Visual Character .................................................................................................. 41
4.3 Material Assets: Traffic & Transport ........................................................................................ 52
4.4 Material Assets: Built Services ................................................................................................. 60
4.5 Material Assets: Waste ............................................................................................................ 68
4.6 Land & Soils .............................................................................................................................. 72
4.7 Water & Hydrology .................................................................................................................. 77
4.8 Biodiversity ............................................................................................................................... 84 RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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4.9 Noise & Vibration ..................................................................................................................... 89
4.10 Air Quality ................................................................................................................................ 93
4.11 Climate ..................................................................................................................................... 96
4.12 Cultural Heritage – Archaeology & Built Heritage ................................................................... 99
4.13 Major Accidents and Disasters ............................................................................................... 108
4.14 Description of Significant Interactions ................................................................................... 111
5 Summary of Mitigation & Monitoring Measures ................................................................... 114
Table of Figures
Figure 1 Application Site ......................................................................................................................... 4
Figure 2 Proposed Development Site Location ..................................................................................... 10
Figure 3 Proposed Gas Pipeline Route & Grid Connection Point.......................................................... 11
Figure 4 Renewable Biogas Plant Site Layout ....................................................................................... 13
Figure 5 Proposed Construction Compound Locations ........................................................................ 21
Table of Tables
Table 1 Chapters of EIAR & Contributors ................................................................................................ 5
Table 2 Impact Rating Terminology ........................................................................................................ 6
Table 3 Climate Change & Renewable Energy Benefits .......................................................................... 9
Table 4 Feedstock Mix .......................................................................................................................... 14
Table 5 Summary of Construction Phase Traffic Effects after mitigation ............................................. 59
Table 6 Summary of Operational Phase Effects in the absence of mitigation ..................................... 59
Table 7 Summary of Interactions between Environmental Factors ................................................... 113
Table 8 Incorporated Design Mitigation ............................................................................................. 114
Table 9 Construction Phase Mitigation Measures .............................................................................. 117
Table 10 Operational Phase Mitigation Measures ............................................................................. 120
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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1 Introduction
Article 5(1)(e) of the EIA Directive requires the project proponent to include a Non-Technical Summary
(NTS) of the Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) and it is transposed into Irish law under
article 94(c) of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001, as amended. The term ‘non -
technical’ indicates that this summary should not include technical terms, detailed data and scientific
discussion, that detail is presented in Volume II, the EIAR.
This NTS provides a concise, but comprehensive description of the Project, its existing environment,
the effects of the project on the environment, the proposed mitigation measures, and the proposed
monitoring arrangements, where relevant. The NTS highlights any significant uncertainties about the
project. It explains the development consent process for the Project and the role of the EIA in that
process.
It is important to highlight that the assessments that form part of the EIAR were undertaken as an
iterative process rather than a one-off, post-design environmental appraisal. Findings from the
individual assessments have been fed into the design process, resulting in a project which achieves a
‘best fit’ within the environment.
The proposed project comprises the development of a renewable biogas plant and associated
infrastructure including improvement works to the local road network and the installation of a gas
grid line over approximately 3.5 kms within the public road corridor. It is noted that only the
renewable biogas plant are included in the application for permission to Monaghan County Council
(MCC). The gas grid will be delivered by Gas Networks Ireland (GNI) under a separate consent regime.
The plant will utilise anaerobic digestion (AD) to generate renewable energy in the form of
biomethane from up to 99,000 tonnes per annum of agri-organic feedstock per annum. AD is a
sustainable form of renewable energy production that occurs when micro-organisms break down
biodegradable material in the absence of oxygen in an enclosed system to produce a renewable
biogas.
Following a review of the project in response to the Further Information Request issued by Meath
County Council on 24 March 2026, the Applicant decided not to proceed with the previously proposed
recontouring of the adjacent agricultural field.
The former Soil Relocation Area therefore no longer forms part of the Proposed Development, and no
deposition of excavated material (c.18,600m³) is proposed within that area. Suitable excavated
material will be reused within the Renewable Biogas Plant site, principally for engineering fill,
landscaping and screening berms, with the surplus material removed off-site to an appropriately
authorised receiving facility.
A more detailed development description is set out in Section 2.3. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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Figure 1 Application Site
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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1.1 Screening for Environmental Impact Assessment
Development which falls within one of the categories specified in Schedule 5 of the Planning and
Development Regulations 2001, as amended, which equals or exceeds, a limit, quantity, or threshold
prescribed for that class of development must be accompanied by an EIAR.
The proposed development will involve the annual intake of 99,000 tonnes of organic waste (poultry
manure, livestock manure and agri-food waste) which exceeds the threshold set out under Class 11(b)
of Schedule 5 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended). As such, the proposed
development falls within the categories of projects that require a mandatory Environmental Impact
Assessment (EIA).
1.2 Competency
It is a requirement that the EIAR must be prepared by competent experts. For the preparation of this
EIAR, the Applicant engaged McCutcheon Halley Chartered Planning Consultants to direct and
coordinate the preparation of the EIAR, and a team of qualified specialists were engaged to prepare
individual chapters. The consultant firms and lead authors are listed in Table 1. Details of competency,
qualifications, and experience of the lead author of each discipline is outlined in the individual
chapters.
Table 1 Chapters of EIAR & Contributors
Chapter Aspect Consultancy Lead Consultant
1 Introduction McCutcheon Halley Planning Consultants Paula Galvin
2 Project Description McCutcheon Halley Planning Consultants Paula Galvin
3 Alternatives McCutcheon Halley Planning Consultants Paula Galvin
4 Population & Human Health AWN Consulting Sarah Robertson
5 Landscape & Visual Macro Works Richard Barker
6 Material Assets: Traffic & Transport Trafficwise Julian Keenan
7 Material Assets: Built Services AWN Consulting Sarah Robertson
8 Material Assets: Waste AWN Consulting Chonaill Bradley
9 Land & Soils AWN Consulting Rashaqat Ali Siddiqui
10 Water & Hydrology AWN Consulting Rashaqat Ali Siddiqui
11 Biodiversity (Flora & Fauna) Veon Amy Haigh
12 Noise & Vibration AWN Consulting Jennifer Harmon
13 Air Quality AWN Consulting Jovanna Arndt
14 Climate AWN Consulting Jovanna Arndt
15 Cultural Heritage Courtney Deery Heritage Consultancy Karen O’Toole
16 Major Accidents & Disasters AWN Consulting Matt Michie
17 Summary of Mitigation Measures McCutcheon Halley Planning Consultants Paula Galvin
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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1.3 Methodology
In preparing the EIAR the following regulations and guidelines were considered:
• The requirements of applicable EU Directives and implementing Irish Regulations regarding
Environmental Impact Assessment, as cited in section 1.5 above;
• Environmental Impact Assessment of Projects Guidance on the preparation of the
Environmental Impact Assessment Reports (European Commission, 2017)
• Guidelines on the Information to be Contained in Environmental Impact Assessment Reports
(Environmental Protection Agency, May 2022).
• Guidelines on Information to be Contained in Environmental Impact Statements (EIS)
(Environmental Protection Agency, 2002)
• Guidelines for Planning Authorities and An Bord Pleanála on carrying out Environmental
Impact Assessment (Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government, 2018).
In addition, contributors have had regard to other relevant discipline-specific guidelines, these are
noted in individual chapters of the EIAR.
Each chapter of this EIAR assesses the direct, indirect, cumulative, and residual impact of the proposed
development for both the construction and operational stage of the proposed development.
The identified quality, significance, and duration of effects for each aspect is primarily based on the
terminology set out in the EPAs Guidelines on the information to be contained in Environmental
Impact Assessment Reports (2022).
The operational effects of the development are long-term, given that the plant is designed primarily
to serve the poultry industry, which is a long-established and ongoing sector in Co. Monaghan. It is
therefore anticipated that the facility will be required to operate continuously for the foreseeable
future.
Table 2 Impact Rating Terminology
Quality of Effects
Positive A change which improves the quality of the environment (for example, by increasing
species diversity; or improving the reproductive capacity of an ecosystem, or by removing
nuisances or improving amenities).
Neutral No effects or effects that are imperceptible, within normal bounds of variation or within
the margin of forecasting error.
Negative/Adverse Effects
A change which reduces the quality of the environment (for example, lessening species
diversity or diminishing the reproductive capacity of an ecosystem, or damaging health or
property or by causing nuisance).
Significance of Effects
Imperceptible An effect capable of measurement but without significant consequences.
Not Significant An effect which causes noticeable changes in the character of the environment but
without significant consequences.
Slight Effects An effect which causes noticeable changes in the character of the environment without
affecting its sensitivities. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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Moderate Effects An effect that alters the character of the environment in a manner that is consistent with
existing and emerging baseline trends.
Significant Effects An effect which, by its character, magnitude, duration or intensity, alters a sensitive aspect
of the environment.
Very Significant An effect which, by its character, magnitude, duration or intensity significantly alters most
of a sensitive aspect of the environment.
Profound Effects An effect which obliterates sensitive characteristics.
Duration & Frequency of Effects
Momentary Effects Seconds to minutes
Brief Effects Less than 1 day
Temporary Effects Less than 1 year
Short-term Effects 1-7 years
Medium-term Effects 7-15 years
Long-term Effects 15-60 years
Permanent Effects Over 60 years
Reversible Effects Effects that can be undone, for example through remediation or restoration.
Frequency of Effects Describe how often the effect will occur (once, rarely, occasionally, frequently, constantly
– or hourly, daily, weekly, monthly, annually).
Extent & Context of Effects
Extent
Describe the size of the area, the number of sites, and the proportion of a population
affected by an effect.
Context Describe whether the extent, duration, or frequency will conform or contrast with
established (baseline) conditions (is it the biggest, longest effect ever?)
Probability of Effects
Likely
The effects that can reasonably be expected to occur because of the planned project if
all mitigation measures are properly implemented.
Unlikely The effects that can reasonably be expected not to occur because of the planned project
if all mitigation measures are properly implemented.
Type of Effects
Indirect Effects
Impacts on the environment, which are not a direct result of the project, often produced
away from the project site or because of a complex pathway.
Cumulative Effects The addition of many minor or significant effects, including effects of other projects, to
create larger, more significant effects.
Do Nothing Effects The environment as it would be in the future should the subject project not be carried out.
Worst-case Effects The effects arising from a project in the case where mitigation measures substantially fail.
Indeterminable Effects When the full consequences of a change in the environment cannot be described.
Irreversible Effects When the character, distinctiveness, diversity or reproductive capacity of an environment
is permanently lost.
Residual Effects The degree of environmental change that will occur after the proposed mitigation
measures have taken effect.
Synergistic Effects Where the resultant effect is of greater significance than the sum of its constituents, (e.g.
combination of SOx and NOx to produce smog). RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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2 Project Description
2.1 Proposed Development
The applicant, Stream BioEnergy Ireland Limited (Stream), proposes to a renewable biogas plant that
will utilise AD technology to generate renewable energy in the form of biogas from up to 99,000
tonnes per annum of organic waste feedstocks; primarily poultry manure along with smaller quantities
of livestock slurry and organic agri-food waste. Biogas generated will be upgraded on site to
biomethane (a replacement for fossil fuel derived natural gas) and injected to the national gas
transmission network which will be delivered to the site by Gas Networks Ireland (GNI) under a
separate consenting regime. The process also produces a sustainable bio-fertiliser, known as
digestate, that can be used in agriculture or horticulture, as well as biogenic carbon dioxide (CO2) that
can be used in industry as a replacement for CO2 derived from fossil fuel energy intensive processes
(such as artificial fertiliser production).
Generation of biomethane, sustainable biofertiliser and biogenic CO₂ in this way improves efficiency,
reduces waste, and supports a circular, low-carbon economy. The following high-level process
flowchart provides an overview of the main steps and sequence of activities that will occur in the
operational stage of the proposed plant.
2.2 Local Agricultural & Environmental Context
County Monaghan’s intensive poultry sector forms a core component of the county’s agricultural
economy and supports a significant number of rural livelihoods. Over recent decades the industry has
expanded and modernised, resulting in a high concentration of poultry production within Monaghan RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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and the wider border region. Modern units now operate at high throughput levels and generate
substantial quantities of poultry manure as an unavoidable by-product of production. This volume
exceeds what local land can safely absorb, creating well-documented pressures on water quality, air
quality, and biodiversity. Excess nutrients from manures are contributing to runoff into local rivers
and lakes, making some surface waters among the most polluted in the country, as highlighted in
recent EPA reporting.
With extensive experience in processing poultry manure through AD, Stream is well placed to address
these challenges through the proposed development by:
• reduce diffuse nutrient losses to local watercourses;
• support compliance with the Water Framework Directive and Nitrates Directive;
• contribute to renewable energy generation and national emissions-reduction targets; and
• provide farmers with a regulated, reliable and circular outlet for organic manures.
In terms of climate change, the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources in response
to the ongoing climate crisis has never been more critical. Ireland has a binding legal commitment to
reach net zero by 2050 with a target of halving greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. The significant
climate change and renewable energy benefits that will be generated by the plant are summarised as
follows.
Table 3 Climate Change & Renewable Energy Benefits
The proposal will capture methane from
organic waste and displace fossil fuel use,
resulting in a greenhouse gas emissions
reduction of up to 42,000 tonnes of CO2e /
annum, equivalent to removing c.9,000 cars
from public roads.
Generation of biomethane needed to meet
Ireland’s net zero targets. Carbon savings
resulting from this project will make significant
contribution to Ireland’s net zero goals.
The plant will generate up to 120 GWh of
biomethane per annum, enough gas for
c.11,000 homes, representing 2% of the 5.7
TWh 2030 biomethane in the National
Biomethane Strategy.
The facility will act as a circular economy hub –
recycling nutrients to farmers and offsetting the
need for importation and use of artificial
fertilisers, thereby delivering further emissions
reductions.
Renewable gas provides a solution to hard to
abate sectors including heavy transport,
industrial heat and agriculture, as well as
contributing to low-carbon dispatchable
power generation.
Use of agri-food waste feedstocks is more
sustainable than agricultural crop-based
feedstocks - grass production is energy and
carbon intensive, as well as taking up valuable
food producing land.
Biomethane is a versatile renewable energy
source that can support a wide range of
energy needs. A key advantage is its year-
round availability.
The process will produce biogenic carbon
dioxide that can be used in industry as a
replacement for carbon dioxide derived from
fossil fuel energy intensive processes (such as
artificial fertiliser production).
In summary, the proposed development provides a locally grounded, environmentally beneficial, and
strategically important renewable energy project, addressing pressing nutrient management
challenges while contributing to national and EU climate and energy objectives. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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2.3 Site Description
The Proposed Development Site comprises one distinct element as shown in Figure 1:
i. The Renewable Biogas Plant site encompassing approximately 6.2 hectares (ha);
It is located approximately halfway along the R189 between Cootehill (to the south) and Newbliss (to
the north), at a junction that accommodates the convergence of the L2280 (which leads west towards
Drum) and the L2320 (which leads east towards Rockcorry) with the R189.
Figure 2 Proposed Development Site Location
The project also includes a linear Gas Grid connection to the national gas grid. The proposed alignment
for this connection, which will be developed/delivered by GNI but has been assessed as part of the
Proposed Project for EIA is shown on Figure 2. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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Figure 3 Proposed Gas Pipeline Route & Grid Connection Point
The Renewable Biogas Plant site is part of a larger farm unit and spans across two fields which are
predominantly improved grassland. The fields are separated by a hedgerow, interspersed with a mix
of tree species. The field to the west of the central hedgerow encompasses two thirds of the site, with
the smaller field to the east encompassing the remaining third. The site is bordered by maintained
hedgerows and field drains, with three gated field accesses from the adjacent public road; the R189
to the east, the L2280 Drumcall Road to the north and the L22802 McKeever’s Road to the west (refer
to Figure 1).
2.4 Plant Design
The form and character of the proposed development has been informed by the existing farmyard
building tradition, which in County Monaghan typically comprises a variety of structures that have RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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evolved over time in response to functional needs. The proposed buildings draw on these familiar
forms, simple pitched roofs, robust gable ends, and utilitarian layouts to ensure that the development
maintains a sense of continuity with the local rural architectural vernacular.
As shown in Figure 3, the biogas plant comprises a number of buildings, structures and plant including:
• 1 - Administration Building (with associated surface level car parking);
• 2 - Main Process Building (with associated vehicle turning areas);
• 3 - Odour Control System (with associated emission stack);
• 4 - Bunded Tank Farm;
• 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 Units);
• 9 - Boiler Unit;
• 10 - Shared Emission Stack (Digestate Drying Plant, CHP and Boiler Units);
• 11 - CO2 Liquefaction Plant;
• 12 - Biogas Upgrade Plant (BUP);
• 13 - Biogas Treatment Plant (Biological De-sulphurisation Units);
• 14 - Gas (Holder) Buffer Dome;
• 15 - Weighbridges and Wheel Washes;
• 16 - Feedstock Storage Tanks;
• 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;
• 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 4Error! Reference source not found.
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 over c.200m and reconfiguration of the
junction with the R189. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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Figure 4 Renewable Biogas Plant Site Layout
The plant has been designed to process a mix of feedstocks, predominantly poultry manure, reflecting
the high concentration of poultry farms in County Monaghan. This focus ensures that the facility
efficiently utilises the region’s principal organic waste stream.
However, to ensure operational resilience and maintain biosecurity, the plant is designed to accept
supplementary feedstocks such as cattle manure and agri-food organic waste from local sources.
The planned feedstock mix is outlined in Table 4.
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Table 4 Feedstock Mix
Feedstock Type Annual Quantity (Up to
99,000 tonnes)*
Source
Poultry manure 80,000 – 99,000 tonnes
Material will be sourced from the significant concentration
of poultry farms in County Monaghan and surrounding
areas.
Cattle manure 2,000 – 10,000 tonnes Material will be sourced from cattle farms in the local area.
Agri-food organic waste 9,000 – 19,000 tonnes This material will be sourced from food and poultry
processing plants in the surrounding area.
* Note that the combination of feedstock types received at the proposed development collectively will not exceed the 99,000 tonne annual
limit
Feedstock will be delivered to the plant in covered / sealed vehicles between 07:00 and 19:00 Monday
to Saturday, with no deliveries on Sundays or public holidays.
Received material will be blended with recirculated liquid and conveyed onwards to the digester tanks
located in the bunded tank farm. Here the organic material is broken down in the absence of oxygen
in an enclosed/sealed environment to produce both biogas (methane and carbon dioxide) and
digestate (the organic material remaining after the AD process). Biogas is collected within the tank
roof space, which is connected to the biogas treatment system. Digestate will be displaced by gravity
overflow from the digester tanks for onward treatment in the pasteurisation process.
Biogas will be upgraded in a biogas upgrade plant (BUP) to produce biomethane. The plant will
generate up to 120 GWh equivalent of biomethane per annum which would be enough gas to supply
the needs of up to 11,000 homes. This biomethane is indistinguishable from fossil fuel derived
(natural) gas and so can be used in transmission and distribution infrastructure and gas appliances
without the need for alteration. It is proposed to inject the biomethane into the gas grid via the route
shown in Figure 3.
CO2 recovered from the biogas upgrading process will be filtered and cooled in a CO2 liquefaction plant
to reach the required food grade standard and liquid state. Up to 15,000 tonnes per annum of liquified
biogenic CO2 will be transported off-site for use in industry, thereby delivering a further circular
economy benefit.
Digestate treatment processes employed at the site will include pasteurisation, separation (producing
fibre digestate), evaporation and drying (producing a pellet). Ammonium sulphate will be produced
as a by-product of the ammonia stripping process. These processes have been included in the site
design to enable the export of nutrients away from Co. Monaghan as required which is under
environmental pressure due to the large quantities of manures being produced in the county.
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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2.5 Facility Operating Hours
Once operational, the facility will run 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, all year round. However, deliveries
of materials will only take place:
• Monday to Saturday: 07:00 to 19:00
• No deliveries on Sundays or bank holidays
2.6 Operational Employment
It is envisaged the plant will employ approximately 30 members of staff, working on a shift basis; 6am
to 2pm and 1pm to 9pm.
In addition to direct employment, the plant will also generate significant other indirect employment
and economic opportunities, including contractors for haulage and plant maintenance, administration
and other support services.
2.7 Environmental Management and Monitoring
All activities on site will be undertaken in compliance with applicable health & safety and
environmental requirements. The plant will be stringently regulated with standards and controls
applied by the relevant authorities including the Health and Safety Authority (HSA), Environment
Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM).
The facility’s environmental performance will be continuously monitored in line with the EPA licence
conditions. This includes regular sampling and analysis of air, water, and other emissions to ensure
that all levels remain within the allowed limits. If any exceedance occurs, it will be treated as a serious
issue, requiring immediate investigation and corrective action.
All key infrastructure—such as bunded tanks, road surfaces, drainage systems, and hardstanding
areas—will be inspected regularly for signs of wear, leaks, or damage. Inspections will be recorded
and reviewed to maintain the highest operational standards.
Additionally, all materials that could pose a pollution risk will be audited on a routine basis, and secure
containment systems will be in place.
Each year, the operator will prepare and submit an Annual Environmental Report (AER) to the EPA.
This report will summarise all monitoring results, highlight any issues, and track year-on-year
environmental performance. It will be made available to the public through the EPA website, ensuring
transparency and accountability.
A central computer-based control system, called SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition),
will oversee all plant operations. Located in the administration building, this system will:
• Monitor and control each stage of the process.
• Ensure the plant runs efficiently and safely.
• Automatically collect data and create reports for internal use and regulatory compliance.
The SCADA system will be equipped with: RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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• Sensors to measure key factors like temperature, gas quality, feed rates, and tank levels.
• Remote access capabilities, allowing the technology provider to offer support if needed.
• A prioritised alarm system to alert operators of any issues in real time via mobile phone.
All monitoring equipment will be regularly calibrated, and historical data will be stored to support
long-term performance tracking.
2.8 Odour Control
The facility will use a robust, three-stage odour control system to prevent any unpleasant smells from
affecting the surrounding area. This system will form part of the main process building and will include:
1. Odour scrubbers
2. A biofilter
3. A carbon filter
These elements work together to remove odour compounds from the air before it's released from a
tall stack (40 metres high), ensuring safe dispersion. The system is designed to reduce odour
concentrations to well below the limits set by the EPA.
To further minimise odour:
• All waste processing will take place indoors in a sealed building.
• The building will be kept under negative pressure to stop air (and odours) from escaping.
• All doors used for deliveries will have rapid-closing mechanisms and air curtains to maintain
containment.
• Odorous air will be captured through a network of ducts connected to the treatment system.
The plant’s design allows for continuous odour control, with backup systems in place so treatment can
continue during maintenance. This setup ensures that the facility will not impact nearby homes or
businesses, in line with EPA licence requirements.
2.9 Local Amenity Protection
The proposed development has been carefully designed to ensure it does not negatively affect the
local community. Measures have been taken to reduce potential issues such as odour, noise, traffic,
dust, and visual impacts. Modern technologies, enclosed processing areas, and continuous monitoring
will ensure the plant operates to high environmental standards. The goal is to protect local quality of
life while delivering environmental and energy benefits.
2.10 Traffic and Access
It is estimated the proposed development will generate on average 2.25 HGV movements per hour
based on a 12 hour / day operating period. The main haul routes to the site will be Regional Roads
R188 and R189.
Access to the site shall be via the Drumcall Road (L2280). Proposed road widening and partial
realignment of the L2280 shall be integrated with the access junction to the proposed development, RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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which shall operate as a priority T-junction arrangement. This shall be controlled by independent
security sliding gates on the inbound and outbound lanes. The road improvement works also include
for upgrade of the R189 junction southward to optimise visibility sightlines at the junction.
2.11 Landscaping
Landscape planting has been included in the site design and maximises screening opportunities both
along the site perimeter and within the site. The landscape schedule provided within the Landscape
Mitigation Plan includes a comprehensive list of proposed species including:
• Native hedgerow;
• Grassland areas (species rich);
• Specimen trees;
• Native Woodland mix; and
• Native Shrub mix.
Planting shall be enhanced further by the placement of earthwork screening berms to the southeast
and northwest of the Renewable Biogas Plant site to enable the integration of the facility into the
surrounding landscape. The berms will be landscaped with trees to maximise screening potential. The
Landscape Design Statement accompanying the application outlines that by Year 1, planting will be
well established to provide meaningful screening, with further maturity enhancing effectiveness in
subsequent years.
Green and grey colour tones have been incorporated into the design of buildings and tanks throughout
the development to reflect the surrounding landscape and help visually integrate the plant into the
local setting.
2.12 Services and Infrastructure
2.12.1 Surface Water Drainage
Robust control measures will be implemented throughout the construction phase to prevent any
potential impact on surface water quality. This includes the secure storage of construction materials
and measures to prevent direct runoff to existing drainage systems.
Operational areas of the site will benefit from an engineered site drainage containment system
comprising an impermeable surface. Bunds and other means of containment (designed to meet CIRIA
standards) will be provided for all tanks and pipework containing liquids whose spillage could be
harmful to the environment.
All process effluent associated with incoming feedstock together with any floor wash down in the
process building will be contained. This will be drained to a central sump inside the building from
where it will be recycled to the AD process. Therefore, in the unlikely event of a spill or in the event of
an extreme rainfall event or flooding on the site, this site-wide fully contained engineered process
water system is designed to prevent the release of potentially polluting materials to local drains. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 18
It is proposed that Sustainable Drainage System (SuDS) measures will manage and control surface
water runoff from the site. Rainwater harvesting is a key measure that will be included in the
management of surface water for the plant. Harvested rainwater will be used in the process and any
excess runoff will be discharged from the site at greenfield run-off rates to existing surface water
drainage via an attenuation storage system. This shall provide betterment over existing greenfield run-
off rates that would typically be generated from the site. Oil water separators and silt traps will contain
any potential contaminants within the areas subject to surface water drainage.
2.12.2 Foul Water
During the construction phase, foul drainage requirements are minimal and limited to staff welfare
facilities. Wastewater generated during construction will be collected and removed off-site by an
authorised company to an appropriately licensed facility.
Foul drainage collected from the on-site welfare facilities during operation will pass through a package
treatment plant prior to the treated liquid being recirculated for use in the AD process. Occasional
removal of solids off-site will be required (estimated once per year) to an appropriately licensed
facility. There will be no discharge of foul effluent from the proposed development.
2.12.3 Power
Power will be supplied from the adjacent landowner’s farmyard during construction until a permanent
connection to the local 10 kV network is established.
The design philosophy for operation of the proposed development is to generate the plant’s own
power demand on-site using gas fired CHP engines, with no intention to export power to grid.
Two CHP engines (each rated up to 2 MW) will be installed to provide sufficient duty standby to the
plant during routine engine maintenance or unscheduled downtime. A backup generator will also be
installed to provide further security of electrical supply to the site. An electrical grid connection will
also be established to the local 10 kV network on the site boundary as a further backup facility.
2.12.4 Water Supply
During construction, water supply will be from a combination of harvested rainwater and a bowsered
supply from an authorised supplier.
Operational plant design has water sustainability at its core, with processes designed to minimise
water demand. The plant will prioritise the use of harvested rainwater. Given the significant storage
capacity included in the design, it is anticipated that this will provide a significant portion of water
demand for the site.
A groundwater supply well will also be installed on the site which has potential to provide up to
45m3/day, which would be sufficient to supply potable water demand and supplement process water
supply to the site during periods of low rainfall. A connection will also be sought from the mains
supply located adjacent to the site as a back-up water supply source. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 19
2.12.5 Gas
A gas grid entry unit at the plant will connect to the gas network via a new 3.5 km underground pipe
along existing roads. This new section of piping and grid connection does not form a part of this
application and will be subject to a separate process undertaken by Gas Networks Ireland, though has
been considered as cumulative development as appropriate throughout this EIAR.
From the biogas plant, this will be located within the verge or roadbed of the R189 through to its
junction with the R188. From here, it will be located within the verge or roadbed through to the
connection point with the existing gas network adjacent to the Abbott facility to the north of Cootehill.
2.12.6 Firewater
Firewater for the plant shall be supplied via an above ground firewater storage tank located on the
eastern portion of the site. Hydrants shall be connected via pumps to the storage tank. Hydrant
locations have been designed in accordance with Building Regulations Technical Guidance Document
B – Fire Safety Clause 5.1.7.
Monaghan County Council requirements in relation to fire safety and firefighting shall be fully
complied with in the Fire Safety Certificate application, which will be prepared during the detailed
design of the Plant and in advance of operation.
2.12.7 Additional Infrastructure and Operational Measures
• Lighting
Lighting throughout the site is designed to ensure safe operations while minimising environmental
impacts like light pollution. Lighting will also be directed down onto the surfaces thus reducing the
glare to a minimum. External lighting will be switched off from 9pm in the evening and will operate
on motion sensors.
• Pest Control
Pest control (including for vermin and flies) will be maintained throughout the operational life of the
proposed development. All feedstock reception, storage, and processing will take place within fully
enclosed buildings or vessels, preventing access by birds, rodents, or other wildlife. Regular washing
of process area floors mean the site will not be an environment that vermin would find attractive or
in which flies would propagate.
• Waste
Provision shall be made within the pre-treatment process for the inadvertent presence of inorganic
materials within incoming feedstock, which shall be managed accordingly. Unsuitable material
removed by pre-treatment screening will be exported off-site for further processing at appropriate
licensed facilities.
A separate collection system will be provided for kitchen waste generated in the canteen. Food waste
from the canteen can be processed onsite and all other separately collected canteen waste will be
recovered/recycled off-site. Other wastes that will be generated in small quantities at the plant, RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 20
including waste oils, general office waste, paper and packaging, will be separately collected and
transferred off-site for recovery, recycling or disposal.
• Vehicle Refuelling
A diesel tank with a capacity of 6m3 will be located in a secure, contained area. This will supply fuel
for onsite machinery and vehicles, which will be refuelled on a specially designed surface to prevent
any environmental risks.
• Site Security
Security features will include 2.4m high perimeter paladin fencing. The vehicular access point will be
closed outside of operating hours and a CCTV system will be installed. Security monitoring of the site
will be carried out at all times via a combination of in person patrols or remote monitoring.
2.13 Construction Phase
Construction of the proposed development is expected to take up to two years. Once all the
equipment and systems are installed, the biogas plant must be commissioned. This involves testing all
the equipment and systems to ensure they are functioning properly and meeting the plant's design
specifications. This typically entails a commissioning period of 3 months.
Construction will generally be undertaken in the following sequence:
• Enabling works;
• Site preparation;
• Site utilities and infrastructure;
• Foundations;
• Structural works and building envelope;
• Equipment installation;
• Commissioning; and
• Landscaping and reinstatement.
There will be up to 100 direct jobs generated throughout the 2-year construction period; however, it
has been assumed that the general workforce for construction would fluctuate between 30 to 80
persons on site at any one period depending on the stage of construction, with a general average of
40 construction workers on site over the course of the works.
2.13.1 Construction Working Hours
• Weekday Working Hours: 07:00 to 19:00hrs;
• Saturday Working Hours: 08:00 to 14:00hrs; and
• No work on Sunday & Bank Holidays.
Any changes to these hours will be agreed with the planning authority and communicated in advance
to stakeholders if necessary. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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2.13.2 Construction Compound
The Contractor’s construction compound will be established during enabling works.
As shown on Figure 4, it anticipated that the construction compound could initially be located in the
vicinity of the administration building/parking area (see blue area). This location is adjacent to the site
entrance, thus providing easy site access and good connectivity to the public road network, minimising
the need for traffic movements throughout the site.
Once the construction works are advanced, it is likely that the construction compound could be
relocated to the southern portion of the site to allow construction of the administration building (see
red area on Figure 5).
Figure 5 Proposed Construction Compound Locations
2.13.3 Earthworks
Earthworks for the biogas plant would follow the topsoil strip, with project construction activities
resulting in the requirement for excavations and generation of excess soil and stone. Excavation
depths will vary across the site, with the deepest excavation extending to approximately 14 m within
the southern portion of the bunded tank farm. The topsoil storage area will be determined by the RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 22
contractor during detailed design stage. Excess soil will be used for landscaping on site (including
establishment of screening berms on the southeastern and northwestern portions of the site). Surplus
excavated soil and stone will be managed in accordance with the Waste Management Acts, the Waste
Framework Directive and relevant EPA guidance relating to excavated soil and stone. The material will
be removed from the site by suitably authorised contractors and transported to an appropriately
authorised soil recovery facility or other authorised receiving facility.
2.13.4 Construction Traffic Management
Construction access will be taken from the L2280, via the existing farm entrance which will be
temporarily modified and upgraded to accommodate two-way construction traffic.
Typical construction traffic will include deliveries of stone, concrete, reinforcement, steelwork,
precast elements, and mechanical and electrical equipment. Bulk earthworks will generate
approximately 18,600 m³ of surplus excavated soil and stone requiring removal from the site. During
the early stages of construction, the export of this material has the potential to generate up to
approximately 28 HGV trips per day.
The peak traffic-generating phase of construction will occur during building and tank construction,
when c.2 HGV trips per hour may occur for materials import.
A Construction Traffic Management Plan (CTMP) will be prepared and agreed with Monaghan County
Council prior to commencement. This will include measures for routing and scheduling of vehicles,
temporary traffic management, construction signage, wheel-wash facilities, dust and debris control,
and communication with local residents.
2.13.5 Environmental Management During Construction
An Outline Construction Environmental Management Plan (oCEMP) has been prepared which sets out
measures for managing activities, environmental risks, and mitigation actions during construction. A
Soil & Surface Water Management Plan (SSWMP) is appended to the oCEMP outlining specific
measures required for the management of soils and surface water during construction works.
The oCEMP shall be adopted by the appointed Contractor upon appointment and expanded upon into
a bespoke CEMP as the detailed design progresses and there is more certainty in terms of construction
methods, programme, etc.
Aspects that will be addressed within the plan will include but are not limited to, waste and materials
management; noise and vibration; dust and air quality; traffic and vehicle management; pollution
incident control; and protection of vegetation and fauna. It shall include:
• a description of the sensitive features or receptors associated with the application area, and
the rationale for protection of these features (known as the Environmental Impacts / Aspects
Register);
• An overall programme for construction activities, together with method statements and risk
assessments relating to certain activities; RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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• The control measures and monitoring requirements to be implemented during each stage of
the construction works to minimise resource use, protect the environment or minimise
disturbance of sensitive receptors;
• Names of the nominated person(s) responsible for implementing these measures and
undertaking the required monitoring, and the person(s) responsible for checking that these
measures have been implemented and monitoring completed;
• Reporting procedures and documentation requirements in relation to implementation of the
control measures and monitoring; and
• Actions to be taken in the event of an emergency or unexpected event.
The contractor will be responsible for preparing a detailed site-specific CEMP before construction
begins, and for keeping it updated throughout the works.
A Resource and Waste Management Plan (RWMP) will guide how materials and waste are handled
during construction. The plan promotes the principles of reduce, reuse, and recycle, ensuring
compliance with environmental legislation. The plan will be updated regularly based on project
progress and any new regulations.
2.14 Health and Safety
The obligations as set out in the Safety, Health, and Welfare at Work Construction Regulations will be
complied with. Principles of prevention will be considered and a design risk assessment for the site
development elements of the works carried out. Hazards will be identified and, where possible,
engineered out. Where this is not possible, mitigation measures will be employed. A record shall be
kept of any residual risks arising and these will be passed on to the contractor in the preliminary Health
and Safety Plan, prior to the construction stage.
During the detailed design phase, hazard and operability studies will be carried out. These studies are
a systematic method of identifying hazards and assessing mitigation measures.
A comprehensive Construction Quality Assurance (CQA) plan will be implemented during the
construction phase. The Plan will include Construction Quality Control (CQC) procedures to ensure
that materials and workmanship meet defined specifications. These procedures will include the
integrity testing of all surface water, foul water, process water pipe work and underground structures
in accordance with industry accepted standards and procedures.
Stream will put in place a combined Quality, Environmental, Safety & Health (QESH) Management
System for the plant. The proposed facility will operate to internationally recognised quality,
environmental and health and safety standards as required.
In compliance with the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, Stream will prepare a safety
statement covering the operation of the plant and appoint safety representatives from the plant
workforce. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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2.15 Decommissioning
The Renewable Biogas Plant is intended to operate as a permanent facility to support the local poultry
and agricultural industry, and decommissioning is not part of the current project. Nonetheless, the
plant will operate under an EPA Industrial Emissions Licence, which includes requirements to ensure
that any future decommissioning, should it ever become necessary, would be carried out in
accordance with established environmental management and regulatory standards. This would
include a Closure, Restoration and Aftercare Management Plan (CRAMP) to ensure that
decommissioning works are undertaken using appropriate techniques, mitigation, and disposal
measures, avoiding environmentally harmful effects or hazards to sensitive receptors.
Any materials arising from the demolition of buildings, tanks, plant, and hardstanding would be
recovered or recycled wherever feasible, in line with standard demolition practice. All
decommissioning operations would be conducted following appropriate guidance and best practice,
under a Demolition and Environmental Management Plan prepared by the demolition contractor,
ensuring that impacts on sensitive receptors would be appropriately mitigated.
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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3 Alternatives Considered
The Planning and Development Regulations, 2001, as amended, require:
“A description of the reasonable alternatives studied by the person or persons who
prepared the EIAR, which are relevant to the proposed development and its specific
characteristics, and an indication of the main reasons for the option chosen, taking
into account the effects of the proposed development on the environment.”
The requirement is elaborated at paragraph 2(b), which makes clear that reasonable alternatives may
include project design proposals, location, size and scale, which are relevant to the proposed
development and its specific characteristics. The Regulations require that an indication of the main
reasons for selecting the preferred option, including a comparison of the environmental effects be
presented in the EIAR.
The Environmental Protection Agency (2022) Guidelines on the Information to be Contained in
Environmental Impact Assessment Reports states:
“The objective is for the developer to present a representative range of the
practicable alternatives considered. The alternatives should be described with ‘an
indication of the main reasons for selecting the chosen option’. It is generally
sufficient to provide a broad description of each main alternative and the key issues
associated with each, showing how environmental considerations were taken into
account in deciding on the selected option. A detailed assessment (or ‘mini-EIA’) of
each alternative is not required.”
The Guidelines also state that the range of alternatives considered may include the ‘do-nothing’
alternative.
Accordingly, this chapter of the EIAR provides an outline of the main alternatives examined during the
design phase. It sets out the main reasons for choosing the development as proposed, taking into
account and providing a comparison on the environmental effects. The assessment of alternatives is
considered under the following headings;
i. Do Nothing Scenario;
ii. Alternative Locations;
iii. Alternative Scale;
iv. Alternative Project Design; and
v. Alternative Processes.
3.1 Do-Nothing Scenario
The Do-Nothing scenario describes what would happen if the proposed biogas plant were not built. In
this case, the land would continue to be used as it is today for normal agricultural activities such as
grazing and silage production. While this might seem like the simplest option, it would mean losing
several important environmental, climate, and economic benefits that the proposed development
could bring. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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3.1.1 Climate and Emissions
If the plant is not developed, Ireland would lose an opportunity to make real progress towards national
climate targets. The biogas plant would help reduce greenhouse gas emissions by converting
agricultural and poultry manures into renewable energy. Without it, high-emission practices such as
spreading raw poultry manure on land would continue, contributing to methane and nitrous oxide
emissions—both powerful greenhouse gases.
3.1.2 Environmental Protection
County Monaghan already faces significant challenges with managing poultry manure, which can lead
to pollution of rivers and lakes when spread on land in large quantities. The biogas plant would provide
a sustainable alternative by treating these manures and converting them into cleaner fertiliser
products. Without the plant, nutrient pollution, ammonia emissions, and pressure on waterways
would continue and may worsen over time.
3.1.3 Economic Opportunities
The project would bring major investment to the local area, including construction jobs, long-term
operational roles, and ongoing spending on local services. It would also generate income streams for
farmers supplying feedstock and reduce reliance on imported synthetic fertilisers. Under the Do-
Nothing scenario, none of these economic benefits would be realised.
3.1.4 Overall Outcome
Overall, the Do-Nothing scenario is not considered environmentally, economically, or socially
favourable. It would mean missing the opportunity to support renewable energy production, improve
waste and nutrient management, reduce emissions, and strengthen the local rural economy. The land
would simply continue in its existing agricultural use, with no improvements in environmental
performance or contribution to national climate goals.
3.2 Alternative Locations
A detailed, multi-stage process was used to identify a suitable location for the proposed biogas plant.
This process focused on finding a site that could safely and efficiently accommodate the development
while minimising environmental impacts. The preferred site at Maghernakelly, Drum, Co. Monaghan
was chosen only after a thorough comparison of all realistic alternatives.
3.2.1 Search Area Identification
Because the biogas plant will primarily treat poultry manure, the first step was to identify the parts of
Ireland where poultry farming is most concentrated. The border counties—particularly County
Monaghan—produce the highest volumes of poultry manure in the country. Locating the plant close
to these feedstocks reduces transport distances, environmental impacts and costs.
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The plant must also connect directly to the national gas network. In County Monaghan, the gas
network reaches only two locations: Lough Egish and north of Cootehill. These areas were therefore
brought forward as the selected search areas.
3.2.2 Identification and Consideration of Potential Sites
A total of seven potential sites across the Lough Egish and Cootehill areas were assessed. Each site
was examined for environmental, planning, technical and operational suitability.
Lough Egish Sites A and B were not selected because they were located in areas with higher
environmental sensitivities, including a designated scenic view and nearby water features. These
options would also lead to longer feedstock transport routes. The sites were also unavailable.
Cootehill Sites A and B were discounted mainly due to the need for HGV traffic to pass through
Cootehill town, longer transport distances from poultry farms, and in the case of Site B, access roads
that would require major upgrades.
Cootehill Site C was ruled out following advice from Monaghan County Council that its proximity to
protected heritage landscapes made it unsuitable for a development of this scale.
3.2.3 Site Selection
Two sites (Cootehill Site D and Cootehill Site E) were found to have the lowest environmental
constraints and were taken forward for detailed assessment. Both were:
• Large enough to accommodate the plant.
• Well located in relation to poultry farms.
• Close to the gas network.
• Accessible from a regional road.
• Free from ecological designations.
The detailed assessment found that Site E had fewer potential impacts overall. It contains no
watercourses and, with a minor adjustment to the boundary, avoided nearby archaeological features.
Site D, in comparison, contains a stream and is closer to protected structures.
The chosen site (Cootehill Site E) showed the lowest overall environmental impact profile of all
reasonable alternatives. It is also commercially available and meets national guidance for locating
biological treatment facilities, including:
• Safe distances from homes
• Good access to the gas network
• Strong landscape screening potential
• Proximity to agricultural feedstocks
• Appropriate separation from surrounding farmland
• Access to the national road network within 15 km
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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3.3 Alternative Scale
Different plant sizes were considered to determine the most effective and environmentally
responsible scale for the proposed biogas facility. The assessment looked at national policy,
environmental impacts, feedstock availability and the economic feasibility of developing and
operating the plant. Current national policy, including the 2024 National Biomethane Strategy, shows
a preference for developing larger biogas plants due to their efficiency, cost-effectiveness and ability
to deliver meaningful climate benefits.
3.3.1 Small-Scale (“Farm-Level”) Plants
These are typically located on individual farms and produce relatively small quantities of biomethane.
While they benefit from very low transport impacts and can provide useful on-farm advantages, their
potential to contribute to national climate and energy targets is limited. Hundreds of such plants
would be needed to match the output of a smaller number of larger facilities. They are also more
costly per unit of energy produced and can be more difficult to regulate given the significant costs
associated with effective environmental mitigation (such as odour control).
3.3.2 Medium-Scale Plants
Medium-scale plants offer better economies of scale compared with small on-farm systems. They can
make a more meaningful contribution to biomethane targets and may be more attractive for
investment. However, they can face challenges such as more complex feedstock logistics, the need for
direct gas grid connection and, in some cases, infrastructure requirements that may be
disproportionate to their size.
3.3.3 Large-Scale (Centralised) Plants
Large scale facilities can process high volumes of feedstocks and produce significant quantities of
biomethane. They achieve the greatest economies of scale, support advanced environmental controls
and technologies, and can materially contribute to national renewable gas targets. National studies
and policy documents indicate that Ireland is likely to depend on a smaller number of these large
plants to meet its 2030 biomethane targets. However, they require sufficient feedstock availability
and must be located close to the gas network.
3.3.4 Preferred Scale
County Monaghan produces very large quantities of poultry manure each year, making it one of the
most feedstock-rich regions in the country. National and local policy supports treating such materials
close to where they arise. Given the volume of manure available and the limited reach of the gas
network in the County, a large-scale plant located near both the feedstock sources and the gas grid
was identified as the most appropriate and sustainable scale for development.
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3.4 Alternative Design
The design of the proposed biogas plant has been refined through an iterative process that took place
alongside the environmental assessment. Several layout options and architectural approaches were
explored to ensure the final design is practical, environmentally responsible and well-integrated into
the surrounding landscape. Each iteration responded to planning requirements, engineering
constraints and visual considerations.
3.4.1 Evolution of the Site Layout
The earliest versions of the site layout were determined by site topography, which required
earthworks extending beyond the site boundary. As the design progressed, layout iterations
introduced retaining walls, adjusted building positions and refined access routes so that all essential
earthworks could fit within the site boundary. These iterations also expanded the operational
flexibility of the plant, enabling the production of different types of biofertiliser such as fibre and
pellets.
Further refinements focused on improving traffic flow and safety within the site, upgrading access to
the public road network and rearranging buildings to optimise space. Options to manage surplus soil
locally were explored, including the creation of landscaped earth berms to provide visual screening.
This allowed the final design to incorporate landscape berms and planting around the site.
Additional enhancements included reducing the number of tanks required and relocating industrial-
looking plant items toward the centre of the site. This reduced their visibility from nearby viewpoints
and improved overall visual integration.
3.4.2 Architectural and Aesthetic Design Improvements
The main process building was also significantly redesigned through this iterative process. The original
building, while functional, had a uniform height and appearance more typical of a large industrial shed.
During later design stages, the building was re-shaped to better reflect local farmyard styles, with
varied roof heights, simpler forms and reduced overall massing.
Lowering the heights of rooflines and walls helped reduce the building’s visual impact. The number of
odour control stacks was also reduced, further softening the structure’s appearance. A range of colour
schemes was assessed to ensure the plant blends into the surrounding landscape, resulting in a final
palette chosen specifically to minimise contrast against the local skyline.
3.4.3 Overall Outcome
The final design represents a substantial improvement over earlier iterations in terms of
environmental performance, visual integration and operational efficiency. By introducing landscaping
berms, relocating industrial components away from road frontage, reducing overall building height
and increasing opportunities for planting, the project team has achieved a layout that is significantly
more sympathetic to its setting. Overall, the refinement of the design ensures that the plant operates
effectively while minimising environmental and visual impacts. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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3.5 Alternative Processes
A range of alternative technologies and process options were assessed to determine the most suitable
method for treating organic waste and producing renewable energy at the site. The alternatives
included different waste-treatment technologies, different uses of the biogas produced, and different
ways of managing digestate. The assessment concluded that anaerobic digestion with biomethane
upgrading is the most environmentally sustainable and policy-aligned solution for County Monaghan’s
large poultry sector.
3.5.1 Alternative Waste Treatment Technologies
Anaerobic Digestion (Proposed Technology)
Anaerobic digestion (AD) breaks down organic material in sealed tanks without oxygen. It produces
biogas (later upgraded to biomethane) and digestate that can be turned into sustainable fertiliser
products. The process is fully enclosed, preventing methane emissions and providing strong odour and
biosecurity control.
By capturing biogenic CO₂ during the upgrading process, the biogas plant supports Ireland’s climate
targets and enables the production of valuable renewable gas for homes, businesses and transport.
AD also aligns with circular-economy principles by recovering nutrients and producing renewable
energy instead of consuming energy.
Composting (Aerobic)
Composting requires oxygen and often takes place in open or semi-enclosed systems. While it can
treat organic waste, it produces higher levels of odour, ammonia, dust and bioaerosols than AD.
To compost poultry manure effectively, the material would need to be mixed with large volumes of
other waste types, requiring far more space than is available at the site. Composting also consumes
energy, produces no renewable energy, and does not achieve the same level of pathogen control or
nutrient recovery as AD. Overall, it is less suitable and less sustainable for the waste streams involved.
Energy-from-Waste (EfW) Incineration
Incineration can recover energy from waste, but it produces significantly higher air emissions than AD,
including particulates, nitrogen oxides and sulphur dioxide. It also destroys the valuable nutrients in
the waste, meaning no fertiliser can be produced. Ash residues also require specialised disposal.
EfW is less compatible with Ireland’s climate and circular-economy goals, particularly because it offers
limited flexibility and cannot support renewable heat and transport objectives in the same way that
biomethane does.
3.5.2 Alternative Uses of Biogas
Two main options were assessed:
Combined Heat and Power (CHP)
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Biogas can be combusted on site to produce electricity and heat. CHP is efficient where there is a
steady heat demand, but without such demand much of the heat is wasted. It also produces small
quantities of combustion emissions, although these are biogenic.
Upgrading to Biomethane and Injecting into the Gas Grid
Upgrading biogas to biomethane allows it to be injected into the national gas network, replacing fossil
natural gas. This provides flexibility, enabling the renewable gas to be used where it is most needed,
including industrial heating and heavy transport.
This option also enables the capture and beneficial use of biogenic CO₂ and supports national goals to
deliver 5.7 TWh of biomethane by 2030. It has a lower emissions profile than CHP and avoids the
inefficiency of unused heat.
3.5.3 Alternative Digestate Management Options
Two main approaches were considered:
Landspreading whole digestate
This was ruled out due to nutrient-management pressures in the region and the risk of over-
application, which could impact water quality.
Further treatment of digestate (Preferred Option)
The proposed plant will separate, pasteurise, evaporate and dry the digestate to produce a range of
stable biofertiliser products that can be used locally or exported outside the County. This reduces
environmental risks, improves nutrient control and minimises transport movements by reducing
volumes. Re-using condensate within the process also reduces water demand.
3.5.4 Overall Conclusion
Anaerobic digestion, combined with biomethane upgrading and advanced digestate treatment,
provides the most sustainable and environmentally beneficial solution for managing organic waste in
County Monaghan. Composting would generate higher odour and ammonia emissions, while
incineration would lead to higher air pollution and eliminate nutrient recovery. Using the biogas to
produce biomethane rather than electricity maximises climate benefits, reduces emissions and
supports Ireland’s renewable-energy and decarbonisation targets.
Overall, the selected technology offers the greatest environmental benefits and is the most
appropriate process for the waste streams and policy context of the region.
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4 Assessment of Environmental Impacts
4.1 Population & Human Heath
The assessment of Population and Human Health is contained within Chapter 4 of Volume II.
4.1.1 Existing Environment
Population and Health Sensitivity within Study Area
In a desk-based assessment of Population Health Sensitivity, the use of Electoral Divisions (ED) was
used to analyse the population statistics within the study area. A general study area of 1 km from the
site location is included for population statistics, while the wider area of 2.5 km from the site location
has been used to inform the baseline description of the area. The Proposed Development site is in the
Local Authority Area of Monaghan County Council (MCC). Dawsongrove ED and Aghabog ED are within
1km of the Proposed Development and also forms part of the study area. These two EDs are entirely
located within the Republic of Ireland, County Monaghan.
Dawsongrove ED has seen a population growth between the 2016 and 2022 census, presenting a
higher growth percentage when compared to average National rates. Aghabog ED has seen a
population decrease of -7.1% between the 2016 and 2022 census. The Pobal HP Deprivation Index
shows both EDs as ‘Marginally Below Average’, which is consistent with Monaghan County overall.
There is a low age dependency ratio, indicating that there is a larger proportion of working population
within the Study Area, likely to be more mobile, and out of the home during the day, and would
therefore be less likely to be impacted by a development within the area as compared to a more
dependent population.
The Study Area predominantly self-reports their health as “Very-Good,” in line with national trends.
Census disability data indicates that for most of the population within the study area there are limited
restrictions on daily activity. The population within the study area has relatively low sensitivity to
change, with a categorisation of low to medium population sensitivity.
Location and Character of the Local Environment
While a general study area of ED’s within 1 km from the site location is included for population
statistics, the wider area of 2.5 km from the site location has been used to inform the baseline
description of the area. The nearest sensitive receptor to the Proposed Development is a residential
dwelling to the immediate south of the site boundary, with 5 no. additional dwellings located within
200 metres of the Proposed Development.
The area is predominantly agricultural, characterized by a dispersed settlement pattern with the
majority of residential units being single, standalone structures spread across the landscape. There
are no childcare/educational centres, healthcare services, or emergency services, and a limited
number of commercial businesses and places of worship, located within the 2.5km study area. Within
the study area, there are several existing industrial developments, the nearest of which is located c.
0.5km south-east. The nearest recreational features are Annamakerrig Lough in the northernmost part
of the study area and Dartrey Forest in the southeasternmost part of the study area. There are no RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 33
further noteworthy features for recreational use in the vicinity of the Proposed Development site, and
there are no listed or scenic views, no landscape or amenity designations pertaining to the site.
In terms of landscape amenity, the lands surrounding the site constitute predominantly rural and
agricultural greenfield. The primary land use in this area is farming, with scattered residential
properties and farmsteads. There are no listed or scenic views, no landscape or amenity designations
pertaining to the site. The landscape character is classified as Drumlin Foothills, marked by gently
rolling hills typical of the region, which enhance the rural and agricultural nature of the area.
There are no extractive industries, active quarries, or areas of geological heritage within the Study
Area. There are no protected Recreational Waters or Bathing Waterbodies within or immediately
surrounding the Study Area. The nearest waterbody is the Coolkill Lough Stream, located c. 350 meters
west of the site which discharges to Coolkill Lough. There are no Groundwater Source Protection Areas
or Group Schemes within the Study Area. There are 5 no. boreholes in the study area with no listed
use. It is therefore possible that they are in use as domestic water supplies.
The Proposed Development site is not at significant risk of any major accidents, hazards or natural
disasters. The Proposed Development will not be a Seveso/COMAH facility. The closest active licensed
facility to the Proposed Development site is Coulton Poultry Limited (P1128) located approximately
500m to the southeast.
It is important to note that the proximity of a COMAH or licensed facility does not necessarily mean
that the Proposed Development will be impacted by them or vice versa. However, it is essential to
consider these sites as part of the existing environment and to consider and understand the potential
for cumulative impacts or other interactions with the Proposed Development at this location.
4.1.2 Do Nothing Scenario
4.1.2.1 Renewable Biogas Plant Site
Under the “Do Nothing” scenario, no industrial-scale anaerobic digestion (AD) facility is developed on
the Renewable Biogas Plant Site and the existing use of the land, and its landscape and visual
character, remain largely unchanged. In the event that the Proposed Development does not go ahead,
there will not be employment generated from the construction and operational phases of the
proposed development.
4.1.2.2 Linear Gas Grid Connection
No gas grid installation over the 3 km road would occur under the “Do Nothing” scenario.
Consequently, there would be no disruption to the road corridor, and no temporary disturbance
associated with construction activities such as noise, dust and visual disruption. However, the area
would miss the long-term benefits of improved energy infrastructure, with no enhanced gas access
for local residents, businesses, or future development. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 34
4.1.3 Impact Assessment
4.1.3.1 Construction Phase
The main potential impacts on population and human health from the proposed development during
the construction phase are potential for spills/leaks, air emissions, noise, visual, and traffic impacts.
Land Use
• As outlined in Section 4.8.1.1 of the EIAR, there will be a change in land use for the renewable
biogas plant area from an agricultural greenfield site to construction works area. This impact
is considered not significant, short term, of negative quality for the Renewable Biogas Plant
works. Construction of the shallow trench within the roadway will result in temporary
disruption to traffic and potential for generation of noise and dust as the trench progresses.
The overall potential impact associated with the grid connection during the construction
phase is considered neutral, not significant and temporary.
Population
• As stated in Section 4.8.1.2.1 of the EIAR, there are a limited number of parks, shops and
amenity areas within the Study Area, and there will be no impact on these. It is not anticipated
that the Proposed Development will have significant impact on local tourism. The Proposed
Development will not create any significant wastewater discharge during the construction
phase which could have an impact on local amenities or the local population.
• As described in the Traffic and Transportation chapter, the Proposed Development will
generate vehicular trips to and from site during the construction phase. The proposed
development is considered to have little potential to have a significant effect on the working
population in the area or to have a significant effect on the residential population using the
adjoining roads infrastructure including the R189, R188 and L2280. The overall effect of
construction traffic on human health is considered not significant, negative, and short-term.
• During the construction stage, landscape character will be affected by increased construction
traffic and the visible presence of construction activity on the site. These will be screened in
large part by intervening topography and vegetation. Overall construction phase visual
impacts for the renewable biogas plant are considered negative, short-term and ranging
between substantial-moderate to moderate for the Renewable Biogas Plant, with slight to
moderate significance for the gas grid connection.
Employment & Economics
• Construction will have an indirect positive effect on support industries such as builder
suppliers, construction material manufacture, maintenance contracts, equipment supply,
landscaping and other local services and creating employment opportunities with a positive,
not significant, and short term impact.
Health
• As outlined in Section 4.8.1.4.1 of the EIAR, there is a negligible risk of seismic activity, volcanic
activity and sea level rise. There is no significant risk of Major Accidents at the site as it is not
a Seveso facility. The flood risk for the Proposed Development is considered to be minimal. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 35
The potential effect is therefore imperceptible, and unlikely, with respect of Major Accident
Hazards or Natural Disasters on Population and Human Health during the Construction Phase
of the Proposed Development.
• The results presented in the Noise and Vibration Chapter indicate that construction noise
levels are likely to be experienced at the closest residential Noise Sensitive Locations (NSLs)
during the various construction phases of work occurring within the proposed development
site. Based on the potential construction noise levels, the impacts at the closest residences
are determined to be negative, imperceptible to slight, and temporary to short-term to
negative, significant to very significant and temporary.
• As stated in the Noise and Vibration Chapter, key potential sources of vibration relate to the
periods where breaking of made ground or rock is required (for utility works and in unlikely
event of rock extraction at lower ground levels). There may also be a requirement for piling
for the main structures depending on the final detailed design. The closest occupied NSLs
relate to the residential properties to the south west and east. Due to the distance of sensitive
locations to site works, there is little likelihood of structural or even cosmetic damage to
existing neighbouring dwellings as a result of vibration, and hence the potential impacts are
neutral, not-significant and short-term to negative, not significant and short-term.
• The key elements of construction of the proposed development with potential impacts on
populations and human health from air quality and climate impacts are dust soiling effects,
dust (PM10 and PM2.5) emissions, engine emissions from construction traffic and changes in
traffic flows on nearby road links. In the absence of mitigation, dust impacts on Human Health
are predicted to be direct, short-term, negative and slight.
• As stated in the Land & Soils Chapter, reduction in soil quality via historical or unmitigated
pollutants entering the soil has the potential to lead to negative impacts on human health
during construction. Potential sources of accidental contamination include suspended solids,
cement/concrete, hydrocarbons, and wastewater. In the absence of mitigation measures the
potential impacts to human health during the construction phase are negative, moderate and
short-term.
Local and Residential Amenity
There are limited amenity sites and no potential for significant impacts on human health and
populations with respect to local and/or residential amenity within the study area. Although the
construction phase will likely have an adverse impact on the landscape character, there are a limited
number of visual receptors in close proximity to the Site for whom this impact would be noticeable.
In the absence of mitigation, the likely landscape impact from the Renewable Biogas Plant is likely to
be negative, moderate, and short-term in the immediate surrounds of the site, with effects of
moderate-slight to slight significance beyond 500-1000m. The likely landscape impacts from the gas
grid connection in respect of populations and human health during the construction phase are
negative, moderate to slight, and short-term, with effects reducing to slight-imperceptible to
imperceptible significance beyond 500-1000m where effects will be barely discernible.
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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4.1.3.2 Operational Phase
Land Use
• Once operational, the development site will be an operational Renewable Biogas Plant Site,
representing a change in use from the previous agricultural greenfield land use. The Proposed
Development is consistent with the zoning of these lands. The overall potential impact
associated with land use, property, and access during the Operational Phase will be localised,
neutral, not significant and long term. There will be no perceptible impacts to the land use of
the linear gas grid connections.
Population
• As described in the landscape and visual impacts chapter, the operational visual impacts of
the Proposed Development have been assessed from 11 no. viewpoints. While the Renewable
Biogas Plant has the potential to be prominent, it will be seen in the context of a robust,
modified landscape with a variety of land uses. The operational phase visual impacts of the
Proposed Development range from imperceptible, neutral, long-term to moderate, negative,
and long-term.
• As detailed in the Traffic and Transportation chapter, the Proposed Development shall
generate regular vehicular trips on the surrounding road network, increasing traffic flows at
nearby existing junctions. The traffic effects of the Proposed Development on the local road
network during operations will be modest. Given the site location is in a rural area and the
low volume of new traffic, no perceptible impact on human health, amenity, or safety is
anticipated. During the operational phase, the overall effect will be long term, imperceptible,
and neutral.
Health & Residential Amenity
• As outlined in the Air Quality chapter, the key elements of the Proposed Development with
potential to impact human health are the 2 no. combined heat and power boilers (CHP), 1 no.
boiler, 1 no. dryer, and 1 no. odour control stack, as well as engine emissions from vehicles
accessing the site. Detailed air dispersion modelling has established that the overall effect due
to the facility’s emissions on sensitive human health receptors is direct, long-term, negative
and not significant. The impact of the proposed development in terms of odour can be
considered direct, negative, long-term and slight, which is overall not significant in EIA terms.
Operational stage effects of traffic on air quality are predicted to be direct, imperceptible,
negative and long-term, which is also overall not significant in EIA terms.
• As detailed in the Noise and Vibration chapter, the main potential noise impacts associated
with the operation of the Proposed Development are from the operation of the proposed
Biogas boiler and plant items. The review of the potential predicted increases in noise level at
the nearest noise sensitive locations conclude that the associated health impact is likely to be
neutral, imperceptible and long term to negative, slight and long term in the absence of
specific mitigation.
• With reference to the Land & Soils and Water & Hydrology chapters, during the operational
phase of the Proposed Development there is no potential for impact on human health and
populations due to changes in land, soil, geology, water quality, or hydrology. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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• It is considered that there is no potential for significant impacts on human health and
populations with respect to local and/or residential amenity impacts during the operational
phase of the Proposed Development.
• Although the Renewable Biogas Plant is a built development of a scale and extent that is not
typical of the area, it will likely not notably detract from the productive rural character of the
landscape. The influence of the Renewable Biogas Plant on landscape character will be most
notable within the immediate landscape. In the absence of mitigation, the likely landscape
impact from the Renewable Biogas Plant is likely to be negative, moderate, and long-term in
the immediate vicinity of the site, with effects of moderate-slight to slight-imperceptible
significance beyond 500-1000m.
Employment & Economy
• It is not expected there will be any likely significant effects on local businesses in association
with the operation of the proposed development. However, the increase in employment
(approximately 30 no. staff) will result in a positive, imperceptible, and long-term impact in
the area during the operational phase.
4.1.4 Mitigation
4.1.4.1 Incorporated Design
The incorporated design mitigation measures to address the potential impacts on Populations and
Human Health of the Proposed Development are as follows:
• The Proposed Development design incorporates appropriate design measures in line with best
practice, standard details, policies and guidelines for similar developments. All mitigation
measures contained within the Land & Soil Chapter and the Water & Hydrology Chapter will
be implemented, including the implementation of emergency response procedures, training,
and spill kits.
• The site layout incorporates noise screening through the use of earth berms. Site processes
are undertaken within the main process buildings, and externally noise-generating equipment
will be limited to ensure the operational noise limits are not exceeded.
• The site landscaping proposals include the regrading of the site to set the structures into the
landscape and provide screening. The colour scheme has been designed to minimise the visual
impact of the built structures.
4.1.4.2 Construction Phase
• To minimise nuisance for neighbouring properties, the Construction Environmental
Management Plan (CEMP) prepared by Stream Bioenergy (2025) will be implemented and
adhered to by the construction Contractor and will be overseen and updated as required if
site conditions change.
• All mitigation measures outlined within this EIAR will be implemented, including measures for
dust control at the site and noise control measures.
• A Construction Traffic Management Plan will be prepared and implemented. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 38
4.1.4.3 Operational Phase
• All mitigation measures outlined within this EIAR will be implemented.
• The Renewable Biogas Plant will operate a delivery management system to monitor and
manage HGV scheduling. Staff will be encouraged to adopt sustainable travel modes,
supported by the provision of on-site showers, and lockers. Regular road maintenance and
inspection of the site entrance will be conducted to ensure safety and cleanliness of the
immediate road interface.
• When commencing the operational phase of the proposed development drivers that will be
using the site will be required to attend a HGV driver induction lecture which the Applicant
has initiated at other similar sites and considers a crucial tool for ensuring that all drivers are
fully aware of the rules and expectations regarding safety, adherence to the haul route, speed
limits, and courteous behaviour towards other road users. Further detail is contained within
the Traffic and Transport Chapter.
• All mitigation measures outlined in Chapter 16 Major Accidents and Disasters will be
implemented throughout the operational phase of the development. This will include the
development of a site Major Accident Prevention Policy and Emergency Response Plan. As no
likely significant effects were identified, no additional mitigation measures are proposed.
4.1.5 Residual Impact Assessment
The post-mitigation residual impacts from the Proposed Development during the construction phase
are as follows:
• No mitigation measures were required for impacts to local business activities. The residual
construction-phase impact is positive, local to regional, indirect, not-significant, and short-
term.
• With the implementation of mitigation measures, the residual impacts during the
construction phase in respect of the environmental factor of Soils, Geology, and Hydrogeology
is short term, imperceptible, and neutral. There are no potential impacts to human health in
respect of hydrology, therefore there are no residual impacts.
• With the implementation of dust control mitigation measures, the predicted residual, dust-
related, human health impact of the construction phase of the proposed development is
short-term, direct, negative, localised and not significant.
• With the implementation of noise mitigation measures, overall residual impacts are likely to
be negative, not significant and temporary to short term to negative, moderate and
temporary to short term at nearby noise sensitive properties. Residual vibration effects during
this phase are determined to be negative, not significant and temporary to short term.
• With the implementation of mitigations, the residual effects on populations and human health
from construction traffic will be negative, slight, and short-term.
• With the implementation of mitigation measures, the residual construction phase dust-
related human health impact will be short-term, direct, negative, localised and not
significant.
• With the implementation of mitigation measures, the residual construction-phase landscape
impact of the renewable biogas plant will be negative, moderate-to-slight, and short-term, RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 39
reducing to slight-imperceptible within the wider study area. The linear gas grid connection
will have a negative, short-term, and slight residual landscape impact, reducing to slight-
imperceptible in the wider study area.
• With the implementation of mitigation measures, the residual construction-phase visual
impact of the renewable biogas plant will be negative, substantial-moderate to moderate,
and short-term. The linear gas grid connection will have negative, short-term, and slight to
moderate residual landscape impacts, reducing considerably beyond 500-1000m from the
site.
The post-mitigation residual impacts from the Proposed Development during the operational phase
are as follows:
• With the implementation of mitigation measures, the operational-phase residual impact to
human health in respect of land and soils is imperceptible, neutral, and long-term. There are
no potential impacts to human health in respect of hydrology, therefore there is no residual
impacts.
• With the implementation of mitigation measures, the operational phase residual impact to
human health from air quality will be direct, negative, long-term, and not significant.
• With the implementation of mitigation measures, the operational phase residual impact to
human health from noise emissions will be negative, slight and long-term at the nearest
sensitive receptors. During the operational phase of the proposed development, there are no
significant source of vibration. The predicted residual impacts are neutral, not significant and
long term.
• With the implementation of mitigation measures, the overall residual effect of the operational
phase traffic will be negative, not significant and long-term.
• With the implementation of mitigation measures, the overall landscape impact from the
renewable biogas boiler will be be negative, long-term, and ranging from moderate (within
500m of the development) to slight-imperceptible beyond 1km of the Proposed
Development. There is no residual impact to human health associated with the landscape
impact of the gas grid connection.
• It is considered that following the implementation and establishment over seven years of the
mitigation measures described in Section 4.9 above, the residual impacts to visual amenity
from the various elements of the Proposed Development range from imperceptible, neutral,
and long-term to moderate, negative, and long-term. In the short-term, operational-phase
visual effects will be as assessed in Section 4.3.1.2.
4.1.6 Cumulative Impact
The likely cumulative impact of the proposed development in conjunction with identified cumulative
developments upon health in relation to noise, dust generation, construction traffic, visual impacts,
etc., associated with the works have been assessed in the respective EIA Report Chapters.
There are potential construction-phase cumulative impacts with the identified developments in
respect of soil and groundwater quality, dust impacts, construction traffic, noise and vibration to in RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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combination impact human health; however, the residual cumulative effects on human health for the
Proposed Development overall are assessed to be negative, not significant, and short-term.
There are potential operational phase cumulative impacts with the identified developments in respect
of air quality, noise emissions, traffic, and landscape/visual effects to in combination impact human
health; however, the residual cumulative effects on human health for the Proposed Development
overall are assessed to be negative, not significant, and long-term.
4.1.7 Monitoring
Monitoring measures for the protection of human health are contained within the corresponding
specialist chapters; Land & Soils Chapter; Water & Hydrology Chapter; Air Quality Chapter, the Major
Accidents and Disasters Report; Noise and Vibration Chapter; Landscape and Visual Impact Chapter;
and the Traffic and Transportation Chapter.
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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4.2 Landscape & Visual Character
The assessment of Landscape & Visual Character is contained within Chapter 5 of Volume II.
This Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) has been prepared to accompany a planning
application for the Proposed Development, which comprises the Renewable Biogas Plant . In
accordance with the EIA Directive, the assessment also considers the overall project, which includes
the separate Linear Gas Grid Connection to be delivered by Gas Networks Ireland under a different
consenting regime, insofar as sufficient detail is available. This LVIA describes the landscape context
of the Proposed Development and assesses the likely landscape and visual impacts of the scheme on
the receiving environment.
Landscape Impact Assessment (LIA) relates to assessing effects of a development on the landscape
as a resource in its own right and is concerned with how the proposal will affect the elements that
make up the landscape, the aesthetic and perceptual aspects of the landscape and its distinctive
character. Visual Impact Assessment (VIA) relates to assessing effects of a development on specific
views and on the general visual amenity experienced by people. This deals with how the surroundings
of individuals or groups of people may be specifically affected by changes in the content and character
of views as a result of the change or loss of existing elements of the landscape and/or introduction of
new elements. Visual impacts may occur from; Visual Obstruction (blocking of a view, be it full, partial
or intermittent) or; Visual Intrusion (interruption of a view without blocking).
4.2.1 Existing Environment
The Renewable Biogas Plant Site is located on a parcel of gently rolling agricultural land that slopes
broadly from south to north. The landscape within the wider study area is that of a drumlin field,
comprising a dense expanse of undulating landforms, with more dramatic slopes within the northern
extent of the study area. The land cover within the Renewable Biogas Plant Site is agricultural pasture,
bounded and intersected by a network of mature hedgerows and rows of trees, the combination of
which is also the predominant land cover within the wider study area. There is also some
industrial/agricultural production land use, as well as sporadic commercial and residential land use,
scattered throughout the study area, largely concentrated along the network of local roads. The village
of Drum is the nearest settlement of note to the Proposed Development, with the closest dwellings
located approximately 2.6km to the south-west of the Renewable Biogas Plant Site. Aside from this,
the area is largely rural, with some linear clusters of dwellings and scattered farmsteads located
throughout the study area. The R189 regional route is the principal transport route in the vicinity of
the Renewable Biogas Plant Site, located directly adjacent to the eastern boundary of the Site, while
the R188 regional route is also located within the study area. In terms of waterbodies within the study
area, there are two rivers that intersect with the study area, the Bunnoe River in the northern extent
and the Dromore River in the southern extent. Inner Lough and Drumore Lough are the largest lakes
within the southern extent of the study area, located adjacent to one another, while Annaghmakerrig
Lough is the largest lake within the northern extent. There are areas of forest and coniferous forestry
concentrated around these lakes. These lakes and the surrounding forests are the principal amenity
features within the study area. Inner Lough and Drumore Lough are associated with the Dartrey Forest
Recreation Area, which contains several public trails and heritage features, while Annaghmakerrig
Lough is also associated with recreational amenity. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 42
With regard to landscape character, the Proposed Development is contained within the Landscape
Character Area 'LCA 7 - Ballybay/Castleblayney Lakelands', which is described as “highly scenic”. These
scenic qualities primarily relate to areas surrounding the lakes within the wider study area, which are
also identified as ‘Areas of Secondary Amenity Value’. These scenic qualities also somewhat related to
the overall composition of the drumlin landscape as a whole. There are no designated Scenic Views or
Routes within the study area.
4.2.2 Impact Assessment
4.2.2.1 Do Nothing Scenario
The ‘do-nothing’ impact refers to the non-implementation of the proposed development. The primary
effect of this would be that the impacts and effects identified would not directly occur. In this regard,
the Renewable Biogas Plant Site is currently contained in pastoral farmland, would likely be managed
for typical agricultural practices, whilst the surrounding perimeter vegetation would continue to grow
out. The Linear Gas Grid Connection, which is contained within existing roads, would remain
unchanged. The existing vegetation contained within the road side verges would continue to change
over time.
4.2.2.2 Demolition Phase
No demolition of existing structures is required to facilitate the Proposed Development, and therefore
this element has not been included in the LVIA assessment. Similarly, no decommissioning phase is
anticipated for the facility, which is designed for long-term operation.
4.2.2.3 Assessment of Receptor Sensitivity
4.2.2.3.1 Landscape
Landscape value and sensitivity are considered in relation to a number of factors highlighted in the
Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment 2013, which are set out below and discussed
relative to the proposed development site and wider study area.
The landscape values of the Renewable Biogas Plant Site and much of the Linear Gas Grid Connection
and the study area are generally associated with rural and agricultural characteristics. While much of
this area has a pleasant rural character, generated by its strongly undulating, lightly settled, densely
vegetated, and pastoral characteristics, the landscape of the Site and surrounds is not synonymous
with scenic qualities. The extent and overall composition of this drumlin landscape, comprising
distinctive landforms, field patterns, and dense lattice of hedgerows, is what contributes to the overall
scenic quality, rather than any area in particular within this landscape. However, this scenic quality is
enhanced within the northern and southern extents of the study area, wherein the overall character
is also influenced by the series of lakes and rivers that are interwoven with areas of woodland and
coniferous forestry. The areas around these waterbodies also comprise much of the amenity of the
study area.
Overall, the Renewable Biogas Plant Site and much of the Linear Gas Grid Connection and the study
area is a robust, modified, and productive landscape associated with rural land uses. There are some
scattered industrial and agricultural production sites throughout the landscape, with the Carleton RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 43
Cake Factory to the south west of the site and the Abbot Ireland industrial complex along the southern
fringe of the study area being of particular note. There are large areas of coniferous forestry,
concentrated around the large lakes within the study area. There are two regional roads and a network
of local roads that travel through the study area, and some residential and commercial land uses that
are largely concentrated along these roads. Beyond the lakeside landscapes within the wider study
area, and the interest of the general drumlin character, this is a typical, rural landscape.
Therefore, on balance of these factors, the landscape sensitivity of the Site and Study Area is deemed
to be Medium, with localised areas of higher and lower sensitivity.
4.2.2.3.2 Visual
The study area generally presents as a typical rural landscape, forming a relatively small component
part of a managed, pastoral, working landscape that displays longstanding human intervention. Views
of this rural, working, agricultural landscape are generally pleasant in terms of its agricultural use, and
the network of hedgerows and vegetation that occur throughout it that contribute to a sense of
naturalness and, combined with the undulating topography, generates a sense of containment in
many locations.
In certain parts of the landscape, views are available across the lakes or, in elevated locations, over
parts of the wider drumlin landscape. Where this is the case, these views offer variety, and are in
contrast to the overriding visual experience of the landscape, which is more enclosed and intimate as
a result of the combination of topography and successive layers of vegetation.
While a pleasant lakeside or pastoral aesthetic is noted throughout some parts of the wider study
area, as noted above, the surrounding local area and most of the wider landscape is also influenced
by an array of scattered anthropogenic features such as major transport routes, settlements, and
some industrial development.
In terms of designations, there are no designated scenic routes or views within the study area. Much
of the scenic amenity of the landscape tends to relate to the lakes within the northern and southern
extents of the study area, at a distance from the proposed development site and which are largely
contained by surrounding vegetation, or to the overall composition of the drumlin landscape as a
whole.
Overall, the sensitivity of visual receptors within this typical, working landscape context tends to range
between Medium and Medium-Low, with those of a Medium sensitivity representing receptors in the
wider landscape with lakeside views or occasional open, expansive views across parts of the wider
landscape, and those around the Proposed Development Site considered Medium-low.
4.2.2.4 Construction Phase
4.2.2.4.1 Landscape
4.2.2.4.1.1 Renewable Biogas Plant Site
Construction equipment, machinery, and partially completed structures will become characteristic
elements during this phase, potentially visible from a broader area than ground-level activities. These
are typical activities for a development of this type and scale and will represent a noticeable increase
in activity levels compared to the baseline for this rural site. Although the construction phase will likely RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 44
have an adverse impact on the landscape character, there are a limited number of visual receptors in
close proximity to the Site for whom this impact would be noticeable. Construction phase impacts on
the landscape are also considered to be ‘Short-term’ and are likely to last up to 24 months. A summary
of construction activities within the site is included below:
• HGVs transporting materials to and from the site;
• Movement of heavy earth-moving machinery and large machinery such as cranes on-site;
• Temporary storage of excavated materials and construction materials on-site;
• Temporary parking areas and site welfare facilities;
• Gradual emergence of the proposed development, and associated works;
• Security hoarding and site lighting.
• Areas of soil stripping to facilitate the incoming structures and associated infrastructure.
• Trees and hedgerows to be retained will be protected in accordance with British Standard
BS5837: 2012 ‘Trees in Relation to Design, Demolition and Constriction
The most notable physical effects generated by the proposed development relate to excavation and
embankment within the Site. The sloping nature of the Site, as well as the proposed embedded design
mitigation of inset structures, necessitates modifications to much of the terrain of the Site.
For the reasons outlined above, as well as the scale of the Proposed Development, the magnitude of
landscape impacts during the construction stage is deemed to be High-Medium within the immediate
surrounds of the Site, however, this quickly reduces to a range of Medium-Low to Low in the wider
surrounds of the study area where visibility of construction activity is likely to be largely, if not entirely,
screened.
In combination with the Medium landscape sensitivity designation outlined above, the significance of
construction stage impacts is deemed to be Moderate within the immediate surrounds of the Site,
however, this quickly reduces to a range of Moderate-Slight to Slight within the wider study area
where visibility of construction stage activities will be limited and in the majority of instances, entirely
screened. The quality of the construction stage effects will be Negative with a ‘Short-term’ duration.
4.2.2.4.1.2 Linear Gas Grid Connection
While there will be some physical construction stage works, these are considered to be relatively
modest, much of which relates to soil stripping and excavation of a relatively a narrow trench within
the road corridor. In terms of perceptual impacts, construction related activity and its effect on
landscape character within the study area will be temporary in duration and will be heavily localised.
The primary impact will be an increase in HGV movements within the road network along the Linear
Gas Grid Connection corridor, which will be more noticeable along the local and regional roads within
the study area. The movement of machinery and temporary storage of excavated materials and
construction materials throughout the Linear Gas Grid Connection corridor may be noticeable within
the immediate context of each working section of the corridor.
For the reasons outlined above, the magnitude of landscape impacts during the construction stage is
deemed to be Low within the immediate surrounds of the Linear Gas Grid Connection corridor;
however, this quickly reduces to Low-Negligible to Negligible in the wider surrounds of the study area RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 45
where visibility of construction activity is likely to be very limited as a result of the surrounding dense
intervening hedgerow networks and undulating topography of the landscape.
In combination with the general Medium landscape sensitivity designation outlined above, the
significance of construction stage impacts is deemed to be Slight within the immediate surrounds of
the site; however, this quickly reduces to Slight-Imperceptible to Imperceptible within the wider study
area where construction activities will be barely discernible. The quality of the construction stage
effects will be Negative with a Short-term duration.
4.2.2.4.2 Visual
4.2.2.4.2.1 Renewable Biogas Plant Site
During construction, the main visual impacts will arise from the construction of the built structures
within the Renewable Biogas Plant Site as well as the visual presence of construction machinery on-
site, which will rise above intervening vegetation and buildings. In addition, there will be heavy vehicle
movements and worker vehicles travelling to and from the Site and using the site entrance. There will
also be stockpiles of stripped topsoil and construction materials awaiting use. The changes to the
landform over much of the Site may be visible within the immediate vicinity. The removal of areas of
existing hedgerow may also temporarily increase the visibility of construction activity.
Visual receptors most likely to be affected by the Renewable Biogas Plant Site during the construction
phase are the residents of dwellings within c.500m of the Site. Aside from these receptors and the
regional and local roads located in the immediate vicinity of the Site, where there is potential for brief
but clear views of the development, a large part of this temporary activity within the site will remain
partially or fully screened from view by intervening topography and vegetation. Furthermore,
construction-related activity is temporary in nature and will cease once the development becomes
fully operational. Thus, construction stage impacts are likely to result in a visual effect of High-Medium
in the immediate surroundings of the Site. However, this quickly reduces to a range of Medium-Low
to Low within the wider study area where visibility of construction stage activities will be limited and
in many instances, entirely screened.
Coupled with the Medium-Low visual receptor sensitivities in the immediate surrounds of the Site, the
construction stage visual impacts in the immediate vicinity of the site are deemed to range between
Substantial-Moderate to Moderate, but will reduce considerably beyond 500m-1000m from the site,
where the proposed development will be afforded a much more notable degree of screening due to
intervening topography and vegetation. The quality of these effects is deemed to be Negative and
with a Short-term duration. As a result, construction stage visual effects are not considered to
generate significant visual effects.
4.2.2.4.2.2 Linear Gas Grid Connection
Construction related activity and its effect on visual amenity along the Linear Gas Grid Connection
corridor will be heavily localised. The primary impact will be an increase in heavy goods vehicle
movements within the road network along the Linear Gas Grid Connection corridor, which will be
more noticeable along the local and regional roads within the study area. The movement of machinery
and temporary storage of excavated materials and construction materials throughout the Linear Gas RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 46
Grid Connection corridor may be noticeable within the immediate context of each working section of
the corridor.
Visual receptors most likely to be affected by the Linear Gas Grid Connection during the construction
phase are residents within c.500m of the corridor. Aside from these receptors and the regional and
local roads located in the immediate vicinity of the corridor, where there is potential for brief but clear
views of the development, a large part of this temporary and transient (c.24m per day) activity within
the corridor will remain partially or fully screened from view by intervening topography and
vegetation. Furthermore, construction-related activity is temporary in nature and will cease once the
development becomes fully operational. Thus, construction stage impacts are likely to result in a visual
effect of Medium-low in the immediate surroundings of the corridor. However, this quickly reduces
to a range of Low to Low-Negligible within the wider study area where visibility of construction stage
activities will be limited and in the majority of instances, entirely screened.
Coupled with the Medium to Medium-Low visual receptor sensitivities in the immediate surrounds of
the corridor, the construction stage visual impacts in the immediate vicinity of the site are deemed to
be Moderate-Slight, but will reduce considerably beyond 500m-1000m from the site, where the
proposed development will be afforded a much more notable degree of screening due to intervening
topography and vegetation. The quality of these effects is deemed to be Negative. As a result,
construction stage visual effects are not considered to generate significant visual effects.
4.2.2.5 Operational Phase
4.2.2.5.1 Landscape
4.2.2.5.1.1 Renewable Biogas Plant Site
With regard to the landscape character of the Renewable Biogas Plant Site and surrounding study
area, it presents as a relatively typical modified pastoral landscape, that, while pleasant, is a working
landscape influenced by existing land uses. In terms of function, this is a working rural landscape with
a variety of land uses such as agriculture, coniferous forestry, and scattered industrial and agricultural
built development. Although the Renewable Biogas Plant is a built development of a scale and extent
that is not typical of the area, it does relate to the agricultural industry and will likely not notably
detract from the productive rural character of the landscape. In terms of scale, the overall scale of the
drumlin landscape, and the land parcels and land-use patterns within these drumlins, helps to
contextualise the scale of the Renewable Biogas Plant and assimilate it into the landscape.
The influence of the Renewable Biogas Plant on landscape character will be most notable within the
immediate landscape, where the form and extent of the built structures have the potential to generate
a notable change to the character of the landscape. However, this influence will be modest, and with
distance, the comparative influence notably reduces.
On balance of the reasons outlined above, the magnitude of landscape impact is deemed to be
Medium. The Medium landscape sensitivity judgement attributed to the study area coupled with a
Medium magnitude of landscape impact at the Site and within its immediate vicinity (<500m), is
considered to result in an overall significance of Moderate. The significance of landscape effect
reduces beyond 500m from the Site to Moderate-Slight, and beyond 1km to Slight to Slight-
Imperceptible. The quality of effect is deemed Negative. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 47
4.2.2.5.1.2 Linear Gas Grid Connection
Once the construction phase is complete, any disturbed road surface and/or areas of grass will likely
be reinstated along the Linear Gas Grid Connection corridor. Thus, there will be little evidence of the
Linear Gas Grid Connection. Operational stage visual impacts mainly relate to any sections of minorly
altered vegetation, and to the maintenance works for the pipeline corridor, which will be infrequent
and will be brief in nature. Maintenance operations will be much less intensive than the activity at the
construction stage.
On balance of the reasons outlined above, the magnitude of landscape impact is deemed to be
Negligible. The Medium landscape sensitivity judgement attributed to the study area coupled with a
Negligible magnitude of landscape impact at the Site and within its immediate vicinity (<500m), is
considered to result in an overall significance of Imperceptible. The quality of effect is deemed Neutral.
4.2.2.5.2 Visual
The following table summarises the identified likely visual effects during the operational phase of the
Proposed Development prior to mitigation measures being applied.
VP
no.
Location VP Sensitivity Magnitude of
Visual Effect
Significance / Quality / Duration of effect
1 L6310 local road, Kilmore
West townland
Medium-Low Negligible Imperceptible / Neutral / Short-term
2 L6330 local road,
Cordressigo townland
Medium-Low Low Slight / Negative / Short-term
3 L6330 local road,
Drumgole townland
Medium-Low Medium-Low Moderate-Slight / Negative / Short-term
4 R189 regional road,
Drumcall townland
Medium-Low High-medium Moderate / Negative / Short-term
5 L2280 local road,
Drumcall townland
Medium-Low Medium-Low Moderate-Slight / Negative / Short-term
6 L22802 local road,
Maghernakelly townland
Medium-Low Low-Negligible Slight-Imperceptible / Negative / Short-term
7 R189 regional road,
Maghernakelly townland
Medium-Low Low Slight / Negative / Short-term
8 R189 regional road,
Drumcall townland
Medium-Low High-Medium Moderate / Negative / Short-term
9 L2320 local road,
Drumgole townland
Medium-Low Medium-Low Moderate-Slight / Negative / Short-term
10 R189 regional road,
Maghernakelly townland
Medium-Low Low Slight / Neutral / Short-term
4.2.2.6 Cumulative Impact
The landscape within which the development is proposed is modified, and has been subject to
continual change and evolution. A list of cumulative projects has been compiled as part of the EIA for
the proposed development and this has been reviewed in the context of LVIA. Relevant projects are
those of a comparative scale and nature and do not include any relating to domestic dwellings or
typical farming practices. Relevant projects are also those which fall within relatively close proximity RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 48
to the site where combined effects on landscape character could occur and intervisibility with the
proposed development might occur.
The nearest permitted non-domestic development is approximately 800m to the northeast and
relates to a milking facility on a dairy farm. At similar distances to the southeast and southwest are
separate permissions for structures relating to poultry farming. Aside from justifying the location of
the proposed renewable Biogas Plant in an area where it can readily receive agricultural waste, there
are no material cumulative effects arising in relation to these typical and modest scale rural
developments.
As such, there is considered to be no significant cumulative effects from either a landscape or a visual
perspective.
4.2.3 Mitigation
4.2.3.1 Incorporated Design
4.2.3.1.1 Renewable Biogas Plant Site
A key mitigation measure embedded within the design of the Renewable Biogas Plant Site is the
proposed earthworks strategy. The Site will be regraded so that the primary structures are set into
the landform, rather than placed on the more elevated portions of the Site. This approach
substantially reduces their apparent height and visual prominence.
The regrading also creates elevated landform along the southern and eastern boundaries, forming a
continuous berm that provides meaningful screening from the public road and from receptors located
to the south and east. A separate roadside berm is also incorporated along the L-road frontage, further
limiting visibility from road users and integrating the development into the roadside landscape.
In addition to the earthworks, the layout of the facility contributes to visual mitigation. The taller and
more visually complex components are clustered to the west, away from the public road. The main
process building is inside the berm, where its larger footprint and uniform massing provide a more
coherent and orderly appearance. The grouping of structures and consolidation of plant elements
reduces visual clutter and contributes to a more unified and legible built form.
A second key mitigation measure embedded into the design of the Renewable Biogas Plant is the
colour scheme of the proposed structures. With the primary objective of minimising the visual impact
of the built structures by allowing these structures to be as unobtrusive as possible against their
backdrop, the proposed colour scheme was drawn from colours found in the surrounding local
landscape. This proposed colour scheme comprises greens within the lower sections of the structures,
while the upper sections are proposed to be a light grey. This tonality echoes that of the surrounding
landscape, wherein the undulating landform, cloaked in areas of green pasture and bounded by
hedgerows, is set against the primarily light-coloured sky. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 49
4.2.3.2 Construction Phases
4.2.3.2.1 Renewable Biogas Plant Site
While some of the existing vegetation along the site boundaries will need to be removed to facilitate
earthworks, these boundaries are proposed to be replanted/bolstered to the extent that is possible.
The existing hedgerow along the western boundary of the site is proposed to be retained and
bolstered with under-planting and inter-planting of whip transplants in order to ensure dense and
consistent screening of the site in perpetuity. This will be undertaken where required to thicken and
fill gaps in the existing hedgerow network prior to the construction phase, thus allowing for any
growth in the period between a grant of planning permission and construction of the development.
Advanced nursery stock trees will be used to fill any noticeable gaps and an additional line of whips
will be planted within hedgerows that require densification.
It is also proposed to plant new hedgerows with whips and a high proportion of advance nursery stock
trees along the southern boundary of the Site in order to further screen the proposed development
Pockets of native woodland thicket are also proposed within the Site along the eastern boundary and
part of southern boundary along the proposed berm, along the western boundary alongside the
bolstered existing hedgerow, along the north-western boundary, along the north-eastern boundary
at the Site entrance and to the east of the proposed administration building, and adjacent to the
parking area of the Site. This native thicket/woodland mix will be provided in the form of high canopy
(dominants) species, low canopy (sub-dominant) species, understory and fringe (higher shrubs)
species and understory and edge (lower shrub) species, and will comprise of a mix of advanced nursery
stock and whip planting of local provenance. The proposed planting will be allowed to grow out to
reach maturity and will break up the visual mass of the built structures within the Proposed
Development while also maintaining the character of the local landscape, within which boundary
vegetation is an important component.
Areas of native wildflower seeding are proposed along the northern boundary to either side of the
Site entrance along the realigned local road. These areas will aid in softening the effect of the Proposed
Development from nearby dwellings and surrounding local and regional roads.
4.2.3.3 Operational Phase
4.2.3.3.1 Linear Gas Grid Connection
These works are outside the control of the applicant, and any mitigation identified for them is
presented as recommended rather than committed. It is recommended that once the construction
stage works are complete, the road surface and/or areas of grass surrounding the Linear Gas Grid
Connection should be fully reinstated.
4.2.4 Residual Impact Assessment
This section assesses potential significant environmental impacts which remain after mitigation
measures are implemented. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 50
4.2.4.1 Landscape Character
4.2.4.1.1 Renewable Biogas Plant Site
The proposed landscape mitigation, in conjunction with the embedded mitigation of the design, will
help to integrate the proposed structures of the Renewable Biogas Plant Site into the pattern of the
landscape. The proposed landscape mitigation will also help to screen some of the less elevated
elements of the Renewable Biogas Plant and to re-establish the boundaries of the Site in keeping with
the existing landscape character.
On balance of the reasons outlined above, the residual magnitude of landscape impact is deemed to
be Medium. The Medium landscape sensitivity judgement attributed to the study area coupled with
a Medium magnitude of landscape impact at the Site and within its immediate vicinity (<500m), is
considered to result in an overall significance of Moderate. The significance of landscape effect
reduces beyond 500m from the Site to Moderate-Slight, and beyond 1km to Slight to Slight-
Imperceptible. The quality of effect is deemed Negative.
4.2.4.1.2 Linear Gas Grid Connection
Residual impacts are assessed to be as described pre-mitigation.
4.2.4.2 Visual Impacts
The following table summarises the identified likely residual visual effects during the operational
phase of the Proposed Development, post-mitigation.
VP
no.
Location VP Sensitivity Magnitude of
Residual Visual
Effect
Significance / Quality / Duration of
Residual Visual Effect
1 L6310 local road, Kilmore
West townland
Medium-Low Negligible Imperceptible / Neutral / Short-term
2 L6330 local road,
Cordressigo townland
Medium-Low Low Slight-Imperceptible / Negative / long-
term
3 L6330 local road,
Drumgole townland
Medium-Low Medium-Low Moderate-Slight / Negative / long-term
4 R189 regional road,
Drumcall townland
Medium-Low High-medium Moderate / Negative / long-term
5 L2280 local road,
Drumcall townland
Medium-Low Medium-Low Moderate-Slight / Negative / long-term
6 L22802 local road,
Maghernakelly townland
Medium-Low Low-Negligible Slight-Imperceptible/Negative/ long-
term
7 R189 regional road,
Maghernakelly townland
Medium-Low Low Slight-Imperceptible / Negative / long-
term
8 R189 regional road,
Drumcall townland
Medium-Low High-Medium Moderate / Negative / long-term
9 L2320 local road,
Drumgole townland
Medium-Low Medium-Low Slight / Negative / long-term
10 R189 regional road,
Maghernakelly townland
Medium-Low Low Slight / Neutral / long-term RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 51
4.2.5 Monitoring
4.2.5.1 Renewable Biogas Plant Site
4.2.5.1.1 Construction Phase
A CEMP Coordinator with appropriate experience should be appointed for the duration of the
construction phase so that a CEMP is effectively implemented, and that all landscape works
undertaken as part of this will be subject to ongoing management and maintenance to ensure
establishment.
Landscape tender drawings and specifications will be produced to ensure that the landscape work is
implemented in accordance with best practice. This document will include tree work procedures, soil
handling, planting and maintenance. The contract works will be supervised by a suitably qualified
landscape architect.
The planting works will be undertaken in the next available planting season after completion of
construction works. All tree protection requirements will be installed on commencement of the
development and removed on a phased basis as stages of the development are completed.
4.2.5.1.2 Operational Phase
This will consist of weed control, replacement planting, pruning etc. All landscape works will be in an
establishment phase for the initial three years from planting. All works will be monitored on an
ongoing basis to ensure the quality of the Proposed Development is maintained.
4.2.5.2 Linear Gas Grid Connection
Monitoring of landscape and visual effects associated with the Linear Gas Grid Connection, is
presented as recommended rather than committed, as these works are outside the control of the
applicant. It is recommended that all works should be monitored on an ongoing basis to ensure the
quality of the Proposed Development is maintained.
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 52
4.3 Material Assets: Traffic & Transport
The assessment of Traffic and Transport is contained within Chapter 6 of Volume II. Chapter 6 of the
EIAR examines the likely significant effects of the proposed development on the receiving road
environment assessing how the proposed development may affect traffic and transport in the
surrounding area. It assesses current road conditions, predicts future traffic levels with and without
the project, and evaluates potential impacts during both construction and operational phases.
Chapter 6 has been prepared in accordance with the provisions of the EIAR Guidelines for Planning
Authorities and An Bord Pleanála (August 2022), ensuring compliance with relevant national
legislation and best practice in environmental assessment. In addition, the assessment has been
carried out with due regard to the Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) ‘Traffic and Transport
Assessment Guidelines’ (May 2014), which provide a structured framework for evaluating the
potential effects of traffic arising from proposed developments. As such, Chapter 6 constitutes a
comprehensive Traffic and Transport Assessment (TTA) and addresses both the construction and
operational aspects of traffic generation, movement, and mitigation in the context of the proposed
development.
4.3.1 Existing Environment
The proposed development site is located in the south of County Monaghan, approx. 7.5km south of
Newbliss via R189 and 11.5km south-east of Clones. It is approx. 4.5km north of Cootehill and 17.5km
south-west of Monaghan, at approximate Irish Transverse Mercator (ITM) coordinates 654900E,
748600N. The site is situated within a predominantly rural agrarian landscape, characterised by
dispersed one-off housing, farms, and small-scale rural enterprises. The immediate environs comprise
a mix of pasture fields bounded by hedgerows and local access roads.
The site is accessed from the Local Road L2280, which connects eastwards to the Regional Road R189
(Clones–Cootehill route) approx. 220m from the proposed site access. The L2280 is a typical rural local
road of limited width (approximately 4.5–5.0m) with grass verges, no footways, and low traffic
volumes. It primarily serves local agricultural and residential traffic.
The R189 Regional Road provides a connection between the development site and Monaghan Town
via Newbliss. The R189 joins the N54 National Secondary Route to the west of Monaghan Town, where
the N54 forms part of the strategic cross border corridor linking Cavan, Monaghan, and Enniskillen,
with onward access to the N2 National Primary Route and the A3 corridor in Northern Ireland. To the
south of the site the R189 connects to Regional Road R188 which provides a connection between
Cavan and Cootehill in the south via Rockcorry to Monaghan Town to the north.
In a wider strategic context, the site is well positioned relative to the national and regional road
network. The N54 provides access to the N2 (Dublin–Derry route) at Monaghan Town and connects
to the N3 to the north of Cavan Town. The surrounding regional network of R189 and R188, including
the R183 (Clones–Castleblayney) and R212 (Clones–Cavan), provides alternative connections to key
settlements and markets in the border region.
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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Traffic surveys were conducted on the public road network in the vicinity of the site in May 2024 and
included key roads and junctions near the proposed development site. The surveys measured existing
traffic volumes and vehicle speeds and were conducted mid-week to reflect typical weekday traffic
patterns including the commuter peak periods.
Traffic flows on the surrounding network are typically low to moderate, reflecting the rural nature of
the area. The R189 and R188 serve as important regional connectors for local industry, agriculture,
and cross border transport. The existing network, therefore, provides a suitable framework for
controlled and managed access to the proposed development, subject to the modest road
improvement works described in Chapter 6 ‘Material Assets: Traffic & Transport’ and Chapter 2
‘Proposed Development‘ of the EIAR.
4.3.2 Impact Assessment
4.3.2.1 Do Nothing Scenario
In the Do Nothing scenario it is expected that the traffic environment will remain as per the baseline.
Traffic flows on the public road network can be assumed to grow in accordance with the latest
Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) published growth factors, but since the proposed development
would not progress, the development would give rise to no increased traffic on the receiving roads
and so would have no significant effect on local traffic conditions, capacity, queues or delays or on the
level of service of the receiving road network in the study area.
4.3.2.2 Construction Phase
A construction period of 24 months is envisaged for the proposed plant . The activity that is considered
the most significant generator of construction traffic is the construction of the buildings which will
require the importation of materials including stone, concrete and steel. The peak period for activity
will be during construction of the main buildings. The assessments assume that the general workforce
for construction would fluctuate between 15 and 40 persons depending on the stage of construction.
Construction staff will generally arrive and depart the site outside of the traditional commuter peak
hour periods and construction staff will be encouraged to car share and to use sustainable transport
where feasible. Given the short-term uplift in car traffic, and the likelihood that HGV traffic generation
during construction will only very occasionally exceed those values already included in detailed
capacity assessments for the operational phase indicates that the effects of construction traffic will
be of similar or lesser order than that of operational traffic. This is borne out in the separate
assessments of construction traffic.
4.3.2.3 Operational Phase
Operational Traffic Contribution
Trip estimation at the proposed development is based upon direct comparison to an existing directly
comparable development. The forecasts of trip generation are based upon basic operating criteria in
terms of the number of workers, customers, visitors and services provided. The trip forecasting
methodology involves comparing the proposed development with a similar existing development and
applying trip information from that site to the proposed development. The proposed plant is forecast
to employ 30 no. staff working over two pre-determined shifts. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 54
Daily fluctuations in traffic occur in practically every traffic environment and this is true of
commercially driven enterprise. Notwithstanding the stability in the operation of the biogas Plant, the
traffic assessments in Chapter 6 adopt a robust forecast using a value higher than the average. The
approach used in the assessments considers a range of values with the higher value being the 85th
percentile of the data sample and the lower value being reflected by the average, where the higher
value might be considered a sensitivity test or stress test. Average traffic generation values are
important to consider against the Annual Average Daily Traffic since this is an industry metric in the
evaluation of roads capacity and roads maintenance. HGV traffic generation arises from the import
of feedstock and the removal of digestate and CO2. In total the site is forecast to generate an average
of 27 no. HGV trips per day (Upper Value 32 trips per day) with an assessment figure of 2 no. HGV trips
generated in both the morning and evening peak periods.
Because environmental constraints limit local land spreading in Monaghan, a central treatment facility
like the one proposed may help reduce long transport distances, reduce nutrient loading risks, and
provide value to regional agriculture. Since the location of the proposed development has been
selected to service an existing industry with a need for a sustainable treatment solution for poultry
manure it stands to reason that the proposed plant will attract those poultry manure loads (principal
feedstock) that are already being transported by road. The proposed development is not therefore
likely to generate totally ‘new’ or ‘primary’ trips on the road network which are by definition trips that
would not occur without the development. For an anaerobic digestion plant with contracted
feedstock, new or primary trips are usually a very small share compared with other types of trips.
The proposed plant does not generate the poultry manure or other feedstock but provides a local
treatment facility therefore principally attracting existing traffic that is already on the network albeit
that it may not necessarily be on the immediate local road network. In this regard, where generated
traffic is not new to the network, two types of trips are considered in traffic assessments and these
are ‘pass-by’ trips or and ‘diverted’ trips. Pass-by trips arise from vehicles that are already traveling
on the adjacent road (R189) for another primary purpose and stop in at the development en-route
without making a separate trip from origin to the site. Diverted trips are comprised of vehicles that
would have travelled elsewhere (e.g. to distant land spreading locations or processors) but change
destination to the site. They are not ‘new’ trips to the network, they are reassigned typically to a
shorter alternative path. They have the effect of changing link flows on the adjoining local road
network. In both cases, where the original trip were to spread-lands to the south of Monaghan the
use of the biogas Plant has the potential to benefit some roads by removing the longer journeys, also
known as ‘trips shortening’.
The traffic model has been developed using the spatial distribution of local poultry farms as the
primary determinant of feedstock delivery patterns, as poultry manure represents the dominant
proportion of annual inputs. This approach provides a robust basis for modelling because the
movement patterns for the remaining feedstocks, principally cattle manure and other agri-food by-
products, are expected to follow similar geographic and operational characteristics. Cattle farms and
associated agri-food suppliers are generally located within the same rural catchment as the poultry
sector, rely on the same regional and local road network, and operate comparable vehicle types and
delivery logistics. As a result, the distribution, routing, and traffic impacts generated by these smaller-
volume feedstocks are effectively captured within the broader poultry-based model. Given that cattle RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 55
manure represents only a modest proportion of total feedstock movements, and arises from sources
dispersed within the same agricultural landscape, its inclusion is not anticipated to materially alter trip
patterns, peak-hour volumes, or network loading beyond those already represented and accounted
for in the model derived from poultry farm geographical data. The adopted methodology is therefore
considered proportionate, conservative, and suitable for assessing the traffic implications of all locally
sourced feedstocks.
Modelling Results
The incremental increase in traffic arising from the proposed development in the morning and evening
peak hours is significantly sub-threshold on the local receiving roads save for L2280, upon which the
development access is located.
Save for at the junction of R189/L2280 where there will typically be an additional 2 no. HGV turning
to and from the R189 in the period of an hour, the additional traffic generated by the proposed
development will be practically imperceptible to existing road users on the receiving road network.
The incremental impact of development traffic on L2280 exceeds the typical threshold value of 10%
on the 200m section between the plant access and the R189 which it is proposed will be upgraded. A
value exceeding the threshold usually triggers the need for further assessment and detailed
junction/network capacity assessments. It should be noted however that where the threshold
percentage values are exceeded, the numerical increase in traffic flows are not significant. Given the
existing volume of traffic on L2280, it is self-evident that the impact of 2 no. HGV entering and leaving
per hour will not give rise to significant adverse effects on the capacity, delay, journey times or the
general operation of the existing local road and its junction with R189.
Further to the network link capacity assessments it is noted that turning traffic at junctions have the
greatest effect on network capacity. Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) Publication TII-PE-PDV-
02045 ‘Traffic and Transport Assessment Guidelines’ (May 2014) provides advisory thresholds for
Traffic and Transport Assessment where national roads are affected. Notwithstanding that the
receiving environment is the Regional Road network, having regard to those advisory thresholds the
increase over the average in traffic flow turning movements on the receiving road junctions in the
study area is shown to be less than 3% in the case of the R189/L2280 junction closest to the site access
and less than 1% at the R189/R188 junction to the south. These values are significantly lower than
the lower threshold value advised in TII-PE-PDV-02045 typically triggering the need for detailed traffic
modelling analysis of development traffic impact in congested or sensitive locations.
Junctions typically operate within performance thresholds where a 1-3% change would not affect,
operational level of service (LoS), trigger points for mitigation or trigger the need for intervention or
upgrade. Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) and other agencies (e.g., CIHT) advocate for
proportionate analysis and recommend that detailed junction modelling should be reserved for
material changes (typically ≥ 10%) in flow. In conclusion, the proposed change in traffic turning
movements represents a negligible fraction of total junction volume and does not warrant detailed
modelling. Such small variations do not materially affect junction performance, are unlikely to register
in computer capacity modelling outputs and are within normal survey tolerance and statistical noise.
Accordingly, detailed junction modelling in this instance would not provide meaningful insights and
would be inconsistent with the principle of proportionate assessment. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 56
It is reasonably concluded from the assessments that the effect of development traffic on the capacity
of the receiving road network warrants no further detailed analysis to determine that the effects are
not likely to be significant.
4.3.2.4 Cumulative Impact
In considering cumulative traffic effects the assessments consider the extent to which traffic
generated by other permitted developments principally within a 5km radius that may contribute to
additional volumes on the receiving local road network. The assessments also considered Renewable
Energy Development within 10km and AD development in Co. Monaghan and Co. Cavan. The review
of permitted developments indicates that a significant number of the greater potential traffic
generating development is located in and around Cootehill and its environs. For the most part the
developments considered are fairly evenly dispersed with respect to the proposed development site.
It is acknowledged that some element of traffic associated with these developments may use the R188
and R189 corridors, which form part of the designated haul route to the proposed development. The
potential influence of cumulative developments on the R188 and R189 is considered likely not to be
significant. The principal traffic growth on the R188 and R189 arising from these permitted
developments, along with wider background growth, is considered to be robustly addressed through
the application of Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) national traffic growth rate factors. The TII
Project Appraisal Guidelines set out nationally consistent traffic growth rate factors derived from
macroeconomic modelling, population projections, car ownership trends, employment growth and
other economic indicators. These growth factors are periodically updated to reflect national and
regional forecasts prepared by the Central Statistics Office, the ESRI, and other government bodies.
By their nature, the TII growth factors incorporate the cumulative effect of general development and
economic growth across the network, including housing, employment, retail and industrial schemes.
Accordingly, applying these growth rates to baseline traffic flows on the R188 and R189, as per the
assessments in EIAR Chapter 6, captures the expected additional traffic demand from both committed
development and broader background trends, without the need to separately model every individual
development within the study area. This ensures that cumulative effects are inherently accounted for
in a consistent and non-duplicative manner. In the case of the R188 and R189 in particular, if traffic
generated by specific cumulative developments were to be added explicitly to the baseline flows in
addition to applying TII growth factors, there would be a significant risk of double counting. This is
because the same development-related traffic growth would already have been captured in the TII-
derived factors. The result would be an artificial inflation of future-year traffic forecasts, leading to an
overestimation of potential traffic impacts. Having reviewed the planning files for all of the
developments considered in the cumulative assessment, it is deemed reasonable and appropriate to
rely on the application of TII national traffic growth factors to the receiving regional road network in
this case. This approach ensures that the cumulative traffic effects of permitted developments in the
wider area are appropriately reflected in the traffic assessment, while avoiding duplication or
overestimation of impacts.
Traffic generated by permitted developments that were operational at the time of the traffic surveys
is inherently included in the baseline data. Permitted developments not yet fully implemented or
implemented at all, and other potential future developments included in the assessment that have
the potential to give rise to the generation of new traffic on the receiving roads network is included RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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for by the application of TII published growth rates to existing surveyed traffic flows on the receiving
road in the study area. Between 2024 and the year of opening 2030 this equates to a network-wide
increase in light traffic of 7.1% and an increase in HGV traffic of 16%. The corresponding increases to
the assessment year 2035 (5 years after opening) are 9.6% and 23% and for 2045 they are 14.6% and
39%.
The cumulative traffic arising from future economic growth and development resulting in traffic
growth on the receiving network are included for both the ‘do-nothing’ and ‘do-something’ road
network assessment scenarios. It is reasonable to expect that traffic arising from the proposed
development would by definition be included, or at least included in part in the TII growth rates. It
should be noted however that the proposed development is not likely to generate traffic that is totally
new to the road network serving County Monaghan. The majority of development related traffic is
already on the road network albeit not all on the immediate network local to the proposed
development. The majority of traffic generated to the development will be comprised of pass-by trips
and trips diverted from their current routes which in many cases can reasonably be expected to reduce
the vehicle kilometres travelled on the network.
4.3.3 Mitigation
4.3.3.1 Incorporated Design
The proposed development access is located on the L2280 on the northern road frontage of the
development site. It is proposed to undertake a local road improvement on the L2280 which will
involve widening and realigning the existing road and this is achieved through works in the public road
or on lands within the control of the applicant. The local road is proposed to be widened and realigned
over a distance of approx. 200m, with the junction of L2280/R189 reconfigured to accommodate
regular turning movements by HGV. It is acknowledged that some locally generated feedstock may
occasionally arrive at the site along the L2280 from the direction of Drum. For the most part this is
traffic that is already travelling on the L2280 near the site and will divert into the facility.
Notwithstanding the occasional vehicle to/from the west of the site, development HGV traffic will use
the adjoining regional road network as the proposed haul routes for both the operational and
construction phases of the project. Internal provision for pedestrians includes for segregated facilities
on the circulation route. High quality and slip resistant materials will be used in the construction of
crossings and gradients at dropped crossings will be sufficiently shallow to allow access for users of all
abilities.
4.3.3.2 Construction Phases
The immediate vicinity of the development site is rural and there are no areas of residential
development near to the development site. The proposed development is considered to have little
potential to have a significant effect on the working population in the area or to have a significant
effect on the residential population using the adjoining roads infrastructure including the R189, R188
and L2280.
Construction phase effects will be short-term. The development will be subject to the preparation of
a Traffic Management Plan prior to commencement. It is expected that construction traffic will follow RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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the same haul route as operational traffic which include the R189 and R188 Regional Roads. Whilst in
use for the purposes of construction the proposed entrance from L2280 will be an all-movements
priority arrangement which has sufficient capacity to accommodate construction traffic. The effects
of construction traffic upon the capacity of the receiving road network are forecast not to be
significant.
The following mitigation measures are proposed:
▪ A Construction Traffic Management Plan will be prepared, including measures to provide
information to affected parties, including advising land and property owners in advance of any
diversions. Local access shall be maintained at all times. In addition, it is proposed that
temporary signage shall be put in place to minimise disruption and ensure all road users
understand that construction works are in progress.
▪ A detailed ‘Construction Environmental Management Plan’(CEMP) details the allowable
working day, construction traffic, parking arrangements and incorporates environmental
protection measures.
The Construction Traffic Management Plan (CTMP) will be prepared and agreed with the local
authority in advance of works commencing. Construction HGV routes will be defined to avoid local
residential areas and sensitive receptors, with access limited to designated haul routes. Construction
deliveries will be scheduled to avoid local network peak hours where possible. Wheel-wash facilities
will be used where necessary to prevent deposition of mud or debris on public roads. All construction
vehicles will be required to comply with safety standards, including visible identification, reversing
alarms, and, where relevant, banksmen assistance for manoeuvres.
4.3.3.3 Operational Phase
HGV deliveries to the bioenergy plant will be spread evenly throughout the day, avoiding unnecessary
clustering and reducing potential for congestion. Site access and internal circulation is designed to
accommodate HGVs safely and efficiently. The plant will operate a delivery management system to
monitor and manage HGV scheduling. Staff will be encouraged to adopt sustainable travel modes,
supported by the provision of on-site cycle parking facilities, showers, and lockers. Regular road
maintenance and inspection of the site entrance will be conducted to ensure safety and cleanliness of
the immediate road interface.
When commencing the operational phase of the proposed development drivers that will be using the
site will be required to attend a HGV driver induction lecture which the Applicant has initiated at other
similar sites and considers a crucial tool for ensuring that all drivers are fully aware of the rules and
expectations regarding safety, adherence to the haul route, speed limits, and courteous behaviour
towards other road users.
4.3.4 Residual Impact Assessment
4.3.4.1 Construction Phase
The following Table 4.1 summarises the identified likely significant effects during the construction
phase of the proposed development after mitigation measures are applied. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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Table 5 Summary of Construction Phase Traffic Effects after mitigation
Likely Significant Effect Quality Significance Extent Probability Duration Type
General Construction Traffic Negative Not Significant Receiving
Network Likely Short-term Direct
4.3.4.2 Operational Phase
The following Table 4.2 summarises the identified likely significant effects during the operational
phase of the proposed development after mitigation measures are applied.
Table 6 Summary of Operational Phase Effects in the absence of mitigation
Likely Significant Effect Quality Significance Extent Probability Duration Type
Operational Traffic Negative Not Significant Receiving
Network Likely Long-term Direct
4.3.4.3 Cumulative Residual Effects
Given the location of other permitted developments and the likely potential for traffic generation it is
not considered likely that there will be a perceptible cumulative impact.
4.3.5 Monitoring
The contractor will be required to ensure that all construction activities are undertaken strictly in
accordance with the parameters and mitigation measures set out in the Construction Environmental
Management Plan (CEMP) and the Construction Traffic Management Plan (CTMP). These plans will
govern the timing, routing, and management of construction traffic to ensure that any potential
temporary impacts are effectively controlled.
No specific traffic monitoring is proposed for the operational phase of the development, as the
predicted traffic generation associated with the facility is low in volume and not significant in the
context of the capacity of the surrounding road network. However, as part of the facility’s ongoing
environmental management and regulatory obligations, EPA compliance records and weighbridge
records will be maintained. These records will provide a continuous record of material inputs and
outputs, thereby offering an indirect means of verifying and tracking traffic activity associated with
the operation of the plant.
Ongoing monitoring will be conducted to ensure continued compliance with planning conditions and
effective implementation of mitigation strategies. Traffic volumes entering and leaving the site will
be monitored using entry/exit logs (weighbridge). There will be periodic review of HGV delivery
schedules to ensure compliance with agreed routing and timing restrictions. Any complaints or
incidents related to traffic or transport will be logged and investigated, with corrective actions
implemented as necessary. A Transport Coordinator (during construction) and Operations Manager
(during operations) will oversee traffic-related compliance on site.
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4.4 Material Assets: Built Services
The assessment of Built Services is contained within Chapter 7 of Volume II.
4.4.1 Existing Environment
4.4.1.1 Water Supply
Records obtained by McAdam for the Engineering Services Report (2025) confirm the presence of
existing watermains along the roads to the north, east and west of the Proposed Renewable Biogas
Site. These watermains form part of the Drumgole Group Water Scheme and are not owned or
maintained by Uisce Éireann, which has no water network assets in the local area.
All watermain infrastructure within the study area is operated by the Drumgole Group Water Scheme.
Topographical survey drawing 5443-2-2D and site visits confirm associated service infrastructure along
the local road network, including valves, hydrants, bulk metering and service access points.
Uisce Éireann advised on 11 July 2025 that a water connection is feasible from Kilkitt Water Treatment
Plant (WTP); however, upgrades to the WTP are required to meet design capacity. These upgrades are
at early concept stage as part of a Capital Investment Plan, with completion expected in 2030, aligning
with the opening year of the Proposed Development.
4.4.1.2 Waste Water Drainage
No known existing foul wastewater drainage infrastructure is located within or in close proximity to
the Renewable Biogas site. The presence or absence of a drainage network proximate tor the gas grid
line is not relevant as wastewater will not be generated from this project area.
4.4.1.3 Surface Water Drainage
A series of drainage ditches run along the eastern, northern and western boundaries of the Proposed
Development site, separating it from the adjacent local road network. These ditches convey field
drainage and surface runoff from the local roads towards a low point at the north-eastern corner of
the site. At this location, a culvert conveys water beneath the R189 into a drainage ditch to the north-
east, which is hydrologically connected to the Coolkill Lough Stream and forms part of its upper
catchment.
4.4.1.4 Electrical Supply
The Engineering Services Report (McAdam, 2025) indicates existing ESB infrastructure comprising
10kV/20kV overhead lines traversing the site, along with five existing poles. As can be seen in Figure
2 of the Built Services chapter, the biogas site is crossed by a medium-voltage overhead electricity line
with four associated poles located within the site boundary. This line runs west–east through the
centre of the site, with a short branch line extending southwards and partially crossing the site.
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4.4.1.5 Gas Supply
No known existing natural gas infrastructure is located within or in close proximity to the site. The
closest is located at the Abbott’s Nutrition facility in Cootehill approximately 3.5 km to the south.
Based on information provided by Gas Networks Ireland (GNI), the gas network terminates at a skid
compound within the grounds of the Abbott’s facility, immediately adjacent to the R188.
GNI has confirmed the feasibility of extending the gas network to the proposed Renewable Biogas Site
and accordingly it is considered in the Built Services chapter.
4.4.1.6 Telecommunications
As stated in the Engineering Services Report (McAdam, 2025), records received from Open Eir indicate
existing above-ground telecommunication cables and associated poles along the northern and eastern
boundaries of the Proposed Renewable Biogas site, running parallel to the public roads (R189, L2280,
L2320).
4.4.2 Impact Assessment
4.4.2.1 Do Nothing Scenario
Renewable Biogas Plant Site
Under the “Do Nothing” scenario, the Renewable Biogas Plant Site would remain in agricultural use,
with no anaerobic digestion facility constructed. However, County Monaghan would continue to
experience a significant poultry manure management challenge, for which the Proposed Development
represents the only proven large-scale treatment solution currently implemented in Ireland. Given
limited gas grid infrastructure in the county, it is likely that a facility of a similar scale would be required
elsewhere in the locality to address ongoing waste management, support the sector, protect water
quality and reduce wider environmental pressures.
Linear Gas Grid Connection
Under the “Do Nothing” scenario, no gas grid installation would occur along the 3.5 km route, resulting
in no construction-related disturbance to the road corridor. However, the area would not benefit from
enhanced energy infrastructure, and there would be no improvement in gas supply to local residential
or commercial properties.
4.4.2.2 Construction Phase
Water Supply
Water demand during construction will be modest (c. 2–3 m³/day) for potable and non-potable uses
and will be met through harvested rainwater where practicable, supplemented by bowsered supply
from an authorised supplier as required. On this basis, demand will not affect the local water network,
and the potential impact on potable water supplies and infrastructure during construction is assessed
as negative, imperceptible, and short-term.
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Wastewater Drainage
Welfare facilities will be provided for construction workers, with all foul water tankered off-site for
disposal at the licensed McBreen Environmental facility, Lismagratty, Co. Cavan (WFP-CN-21-0003-
01), approximately 20 km southwest of the site. In the absence of mitigation, the potential impact on
foul drainage during construction is assessed as negative, not significant, and short-term.
Surface Water Drainage
During construction, rainfall runoff and dewatering water may contain elevated levels of silt or other
pollutants arising from construction activities. Increased suspended solids could elevate turbidity and
sediment loads, potentially affecting infiltration capacity, downstream drainage infrastructure
(including the R189 culvert), and adjacent watercourses.
In the absence of mitigation, increased runoff and sediment loading could overwhelm existing
drainage systems, cause localised flooding, and damage surface water networks. Accordingly, the
potential impact on surface water during construction is assessed as negative, slight, and short-term.
Electricity/Gas and Telecommunications
Power will be supplied from the adjacent landowner’s farmyard during construction pending a
permanent connection to the local 10 kV network. Excavations near existing electrical services will be
undertaken in consultation with ESB Networks, and no disruption to the national grid is anticipated.
In the absence of mitigation, the potential construction-phase impact on power and electrical supply
is assessed as negative, not significant, and short-term.
There is no requirement for a natural gas connection at the Renewable Biogas Plant, therefore, no
construction-phase impact. While not part of the Proposed Development or EIA, a brief pause in gas
supply may occur during connection of the GNI-installed pipeline to the existing GNI skid compound
in Cootehill.
In terms of the linear gas grid connection, Linear Gas Grid Connection, construction of the shallow
trench within the public roadway will result in temporary disruption to traffic. The overall potential
impact associated with the grid connection during the construction phase is considered neutral, not
significant and temporary.
Telecommunications lines along the northern and eastern boundaries of the Renewable Biogas Plant
Site will be re-routed underground adjacent to the proposed site entrance by a statutory
telecommunications operator. In the absence of mitigation, the potential impact during construction
is assessed as neutral, not significant, and short-term.
4.4.2.3 Operational Phase
Water Supply
The estimated operational water demand is approximately 2 m³/day for potable and sanitary use and
45 m³/day for process water, with little seasonal variation. Water sustainability is central to the plant
design, prioritising harvested rainwater, which will be collected via drainage networks into
underground attenuation tanks with a combined capacity of 1,295 m³. Based on long-term rainfall
data, up to 91 m³/day of rainwater could be harvested from the 3.6 ha hardstanding area (runoff
coefficient 90%), supplying a substantial portion of site demand. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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A groundwater well will supplement water supply, with the underlying sandstone aquifer capable of
providing up to 45 m³/day (AWN, Vol III, Appendix 10.4), sufficient for potable use and process water
during low rainfall periods. A connection to the mains water supply adjacent to the site will serve as a
backup, drawing water during off-peak hours to an 80 m³ underground storage tank. SCADA-
controlled pumps will manage and prioritise water use from each source.
Given these sustainable water management measures and multiple supply sources, the potential
operational-phase impact on water supply is assessed as neutral, imperceptible, and long-term.
Wastewater Drainage
The Proposed Development is estimated to generate approximately 2 m³/day of foul effluent,
conveyed via pipes and manholes to an on-site package treatment plant. Treated effluent will be
discharged to a Foul Water Pumping Station and reused on-site in the anaerobic digestion (AD)
process, reducing demand on potable water and supporting the circular economy.
Solids from the treatment plant will be removed off-site occasionally (approximately once per year)
to a licensed facility, likely the McBreen facility at Lismagratty, Cootehill Road, Cavan, about 20 km
southwest of the site. The Foul Water Pumping Station will provide 24 hours of storage to allow for
pump or power failures and operational flexibility in transferring treated effluent to the AD process.
As no trade or domestic effluent will be discharged from the site, the potential operational-phase
impact on foul water management is assessed as neutral, imperceptible, and long-term.
Surface Water Drainage
The drainage strategy for the Proposed Development comprises surface water networks collecting
runoff from roofs and hardstanding areas, providing attenuation and maximising reuse of surface
water within the plant process. Full details of the drainage design are provided in the Engineering
Services Report (McAdam, 2025).
Stormwater will discharge via an existing culvert to a ditch at the north-east boundary, on the opposite
side of the R189, which conveys flows to the Coolkill Lough Stream located approximately 350 m east
of the site. Consent for this discharge will be secured under the EPA Industrial Emissions licence prior
to commencement of operations.
On-site attenuation will be provided up to the 100-year event with a 30% climate change allowance,
with discharge restricted to the downstream network. Surface water treatment will be provided by
SDS Aquaswirl Vortex Pollutant Separation Chambers and SDS AquaFilter Units, reducing suspended
solids, metals and hydrocarbons. All harvested or discharged surface water will be treated through
these units. The potential operational-phase impact on surface water quality is assessed as neutral,
imperceptible, and long-term.
Electricity
The Proposed Development is designed to meet its own power demand on-site using two gas-fired
CHP engines (each up to 2 MW), with no export to the grid. A backup generator will provide additional
security, and a connection to the local 10 kV network will serve as a further contingency (see Appendix
7.1). As on-site generation will supply the facility’s needs, the development will not place additional
pressure on existing electrical infrastructure. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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The operational-phase effect on electrical supply is therefore assessed as neutral, not significant, and
long-term.
Gas
A gas grid entry unit at the plant will connect to the network via a new 3.5 km underground pipe along
existing roads. This connection is not part of this application and will be subject to a separate Gas
Networks Ireland process, though it has been considered as cumulative development where relevant
in this EIAR.
The pipeline will run within the verge or roadbed of the R189 to its junction with the R188 and then
continue within the verge or roadbed to connect with the existing gas network adjacent to the Abbott
facility north of Cootehill.
Telecommunications
Existing above-ground telecommunication cables and poles run along the northern and eastern
boundaries of the Proposed Development site, parallel to the R189, L2280, and L2320 (McAdam, 2025,
Section 2.2.2.2). At the proposed site entrance on the L2280, all overhead lines will be undergrounded
to provide a new connection for the plant, as no lines may traverse the entrance.
Other cables and poles will be retained, with minor relocations only where necessary to maintain
sightlines or visibility splays. The operational-phase impact on telecommunications infrastructure is
assessed as neutral, imperceptible, and long-term.
4.4.2.4 Cumulative Impact
Construction Phase
The Proposed Development will make minimal use of public-built services during construction, so
potential cumulative impacts with other planned or permitted developments are limited. Relevant
developments (Chapter 1, Appendix 1.1) have been reviewed, and coordination with statutory service
providers for electricity, water, surface water, and foul drainage will be undertaken.
Implementation of mitigation measures, together with compliance of adjacent developments with
their respective utility agreements, ensures that the Proposed Development is unlikely to cause
prolonged utility disruption, notable additional demand, or medium-term impacts on critical
infrastructure. Significant cumulative effects are therefore considered unlikely.
Residual cumulative effects on built services during construction are assessed as negative, not
significant, and short-term at the Renewable Biogas Plant Site, and along the Linear Gas Grid
Connection.
Operational Phase
Relevant developments listed in Chapter 1, Appendix 1.1 have been reviewed, and national authorities
plan utility connections with consideration of environmental impacts and long-term sustainable
standards. As a result, the Proposed Development, in combination with existing and permitted
developments, is unlikely to cause prolonged utility disruption, significant additional demand, or
medium-term impacts on critical infrastructure. No significant effects on material assets, or the wider
economy or environment, are anticipated. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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Residual cumulative effects at the Renewable Biogas Plant Site, and along the Linear Gas Grid
Connection are predicted to be neutral, imperceptible, and long-term.
4.4.3 Mitigation
4.4.3.1 Incorporated Design
Water Supply
Process water requirements during operation will be sourced from reuse of liquid fractions,
attenuated storm water and an onsite well. The Proposed Development includes provision for
connection to existing potable water infrastructure, as a back-up supply only.
Wastewater Drainage
Welfare facilities will be provided on-site during construction, with foul effluent managed through
sealed systems to prevent uncontrolled discharges.
Permanent foul water infrastructure has been designed to segregate foul (solid and liquid) streams,
ensuring appropriate containment, conveyance and off-site management.
Surface Water Drainage
The site layout includes an engineered drainage system designed to manage runoff through controlled
collection, and attenuation.
Drainage infrastructure has been sized in accordance with relevant standards to prevent exceedance
flows, reduce sediment transport and protect downstream culverts and receiving systems.
Electricity Network
The existing overhead lines will be re-routed around the site’s perimeter to facilitate the development.
The plant will supply its own electrical load using on-site combined heat and power engines. In the
event of a back-up supply being needed, it is confirmed that the existing overhead infrastructure at
has sufficient capacity.
All utility works will be undertaken in accordance with the relevant requirements of the respective
service providers. These works will be carried out safely and in a manner that minimises any
interruption of services to residents, businesses, and adjacent developments.
Gas Supply
The gas grid connection design follows GNI standards and uses established corridors to minimise
disruption and avoid interaction with third-party assets.
Isolation, pressure control and monitoring infrastructure are incorporated into the connection in line
with GNI safety requirements.
Telecommunications Network
Telecommunications connections will utilise existing networks adjacent to the site. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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4.4.3.2 Construction Phases
Renewable Biogas Site
The works contractor will implement best practice measures to ensure any planned service
interruptions are coordinated and agreed in advance with the relevant utility suppliers. Strict quality
control will be applied during the laying of pipes and built services to minimise infiltration and
exfiltration. Prior to construction, the contractor will confirm the location of all underground services
and establish exclusion zones around them to restrict or control construction activities safely.
An Outline Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) and Soil and Surface Water
Management Plan (SSWMP) have been prepared and are included with the planning application. The
CEMP details construction techniques and methodologies, while the SSWMP specifies measures to
protect soil and surface water quality. These plans, together with the mitigation measures in this EIAR,
will be implemented and overseen by the Project Manager, Environmental Manager, Resource
Manager, and Ecological Clerk of Works, with updates provided as site conditions change. All
personnel will receive training on these procedures.
The contractor will also produce a detailed CEMP and SSWMP incorporating any planning conditions,
setting out the approach to manage the site safely and efficiently and expanding on the Outline
CEMP/SSWMP vision.
Surface water drainage
The contractor will operate in compliance with the CEMP and SSWMP, which include measures to
protect water receptors, including on-site drainage ditches.
Linear Gas Grid Connection
This element will be delivered by GNI, and the applicant has no control over its construction. As good
practice, it is recommended that mitigation measures similar to those outlined in Section 7.9.2 of the
Built Services chapter, are implemented during its construction.
4.4.3.3 Operational Phase
Renewable Biogas Plant Site
The Proposed Development’s stormwater drainage network is designed to minimise potential impacts
on surface water and groundwater, including the Coolkill Lough, Rockcorry Streams, Drumgole Lough,
the Dromore River, and the underlying Cavan groundwater body. A sustainable drainage system
(SuDS) manages runoff from roofs, roads, and hardstanding areas, incorporating attenuation tanks,
harvesting storage, hydrocarbon interceptors, silt traps, hydrobrakes, and flow control devices to
maintain greenfield discharge rates, with a maximum design flow of 83.5 l/s for the 1-in-100-year
event plus 30% climate change allowance.
A water treatment system on the inlet to the attenuation tanks reduces suspended solids and other
potential contaminants. Harvested water used in the plant or discharged from the site is treated
through these units, mitigating risks to local watercourses. The design ensures indirect hydrological
connections are maintained while restricting runoff to greenfield rates. No surface water abstraction RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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is proposed, and groundwater abstraction to meet operational demand is not expected to significantly
impact the local aquifer. On-site infrastructure maintenance will be carried out in accordance with
service provider specifications by the facilities management team. Refer to the Engineering Services
Report (McAdam Design Ltd, 2025) for further details.
Linear Gas Grid Connection
No operational-phase mitigation measures are required for the Linear Gas Grid Connection, aside from
standard maintenance obligations.
4.4.4 Residual Impact Assessment
4.4.4.1 Water Supply, Foul and Surface Water Drainage
Best practice measures will be implemented by the works contractor in accordance with the CEMP,
together with the mitigation measures outlined in this chapter. For the Renewable Biogas Plant
Site,and the Linear Gas Grid Connection, the residual construction-phase impacts on built services are
assessed as neutral, not significant, and short-term.
4.4.4.2 Electrical, Gas and Telecommunications Network
Best practice measures will be implemented by the works contractor in accordance with the CEMP,
together with the mitigation measures outlined in this chapter. For the Renewable Biogas Plant Site
and the Linear Gas Grid Connection (following GNI recommendations), the residual construction-
phase impacts on built services are assessed as neutral, not significant, and short-term.
4.4.4.3 Operational Phase
For the renewable biogas plant site and linear gas grid connection, the residual operational phase
residual impacts are neutral, imperceptible, and long-term.
4.4.5 Monitoring
The facility will be an IE Licensed facility and, as such, will undertake monitoring and reporting of gas,
electricity, and water usage, as well as waste (solid and liquid) production. Standard best practice for
verification of utility reinstatement post-construction will be followed.
For the Renewable Biogas Plant Site, and Linear Gas Grid Connection, no additional monitoring or
reinstatement of built services is required during either the construction or operational phases.
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4.5 Material Assets: Waste
The assessment of Waste is contained within the Chapter 8 of Volume II. AWN Consulting undertook
the waste management assessment.
4.5.1 Existing Environment
The existing environment is largely defined by Monaghan County Council (MCC) as the local authority
responsible for setting and administering waste management activities in the area. This is governed
by the requirements set out in the National Waste Management Plan for a Circular Economy 2024 –
2030 (NWMPCE) and the Waste Action Plan for a Circular Economy – Waste Management Policy in
Ireland.
The estimated total annual quantity of poultry manure produced in Co. Monaghan is 252,174 tonnes.
The Monaghan County Development Plan (CDP) confirms the constraints that exist in Co. Monaghan
with respect to the management of this material, and specifically the land spreading of organic
fertilisers generated from intensive agriculture, within the county which can result in the run-off of
excess nutrients into waterways.
4.5.2 Impact Assessment
4.5.2.1 Do Nothing Scenario
Under the “Do Nothing” scenario, there would be no excavation or construction at the proposed
development site. There would, therefore, be a neutral effect on the environment in terms of waste.
However, if the Proposed Development is not constructed, current practices of landspreading poultry
litter will continue, resulting in higher GHG emissions, increased ammonia emissions to air, and
nutrient loading of watercourses. Given the issues identified in the Fehily Timoney baseline study, the
effect of not constructing the plant is likely to be long-term, significant, moderate and negative until
such time as a facility of similar scale is permitted and developed locally.
4.5.2.2 Demolition Phase
There is no demolition associated with the proposed development and as such there will be no
demolition waste produced.
4.5.2.3 Construction Phase
During the construction phase the mismanagement of waste, including the inadequate storage and
management of waste, and the use of non-permitted waste contractors, would likely lead to negative
impacts such as litter or pollution issues which may lead to vermin or runoff pollution from waste. In
the absence of mitigation, the effect on the local and regional environment is likely to be long-term,
significant and negative.
There will be soil and stones, excavated to facilitate construction of new foundations, the installation
underground services and as part of the road widening works. The development Project Engineers RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 69
(McAdam Engineering) have estimated that c.98,420 m3 of material will need to be excavated to do
so. It is currently envisaged that all of the material can be reused on site with the c.79,900 m3 will be
able to be retained and reused onsite for landscaping and fill in the main Biogas Site area.
The remaining material excavated from the main area (c.18,600m3) will be removed from the site by
suitably authorised contractors and transported for appropriate reuse, recovery or disposal at an
appropriately authorised receiving facility or facilities.
The proposed development will require the laying of a gas pipeline to facilitate the injection of
biomethane into the natural gas grid. The construction of the pipeline may result in temporary impacts
such as soil disturbance, habitat fragmentation, and potential waste generation during excavation and
reinstatement. These works are outside the control of the applicant. Residual effects are expected to
be short-term and not significant, provided best practice construction and reinstatement measures
are implemented by the responsible party.
4.5.2.4 Operational Phase
The potential impacts on the environment during the operational phase of the Renewable Biogas Plant
would be caused by improper, or lack of, waste management. In the absence of mitigation, the effect
on the local and regional environment is likely to be long-term, significant and negative.
There will be no operational waste generated from the Linear Gas Grid Connection and as such there
are no potential significant effects.
4.5.2.5 Cumulative Impact
Adequate waste management facilities are available within the region to accommodate concurrent
developments. Owing to the rural location of the site, the majority of extant permissions relate to
one-off residential dwellings or extensions to existing properties, as well as agricultural related
infrastructure such as poultry houses. The scale of these developments therefore ranges from small
to modest. Other developments in the area will be required to manage waste in compliance with
national and local legislation, policies and plans which will mitigate against any potential cumulative
effects associated with waste generation and waste management. As such the effect will be short-
term, not significant and neutral.
4.5.3 Mitigation
4.5.3.1 Incorporated Design
The concept of the ‘Waste Hierarchy’ and ‘Circular Economy’ is employed when considering all
mitigation measures. The waste hierarchy states that the preferred option for waste management is
prevention and minimisation of waste, followed by preparing for reuse and recycling / recove ry,
energy recovery (i.e. incineration) and, least favoured of all, disposal. The circular economy principle
aims to keep materials, components, and products in-use in the economy for as long as possible. In
circularity, the key objective is to design consumption and production systems to create and retain
value. Both principles have been applied and will further be applied during the detailed design,
construction and operational phases. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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4.5.3.2 Construction Phase
A project specific Resource and Waste Management Plan (RWMP) has been prepared in line with the
requirements of the requirements of the EPA ‘Best Practice Guidelines for the Preparation of Resource
and Waste Management Plans for Construction & Demolition Projects’ (2021) and is included as an
Appendix to this Chapter. The mitigation measures outlined in the RWMP will be implemented in full
and form part of the mitigation strategy for the site. The mitigation measures presented in this RWMP
will ensure effective waste management and minimisation, reuse, recycling, recovery and disposal of
waste material generated during the excavation and construction phases of the proposed
development.
4.5.3.3 Operational Phase
A project specific Operational Waste Management Plan (OWMP) has been prepared and is included
as an Appendix to this Chapter. The mitigation measures outlined in the OWMP will be implemented
in full and form part of the mitigation strategy for the site. Implementation of this OWMP will ensure
a high level of recycling, reuse and recovery at the development. All recyclable materials will be
segregated at source to reduce waste contractor costs and ensure maximum diversion of materials
from landfill, thus achieving the targets set out in the NWMPCE, Waste Action Plan for a Circular
Economy – Waste Management Policy in Ireland and the MCC waste bye-laws.
4.5.4 Residual Impact Assessment
The implementation of the mitigation measures outlined in Chapter 8, the RWMP and OWMP, will
ensure that targeted rates of reuse, recovery and recycling are achieved at the site of the Proposed
Development during the construction and operational phases. It will also ensure that European,
National and Regional legislative waste requirements with regard to waste are met and that associated
targets for the management of waste are achieved.
Construction Phase
A carefully planned approach to waste management for the construction of the Renewable Biogas
Plant Site as set out in Chapter 8 and adherence to the RWMP (which includes mitigation) during the
construction phase will ensure that the predicted effect on the environment will be short-term,
imperceptible and neutral.
The residual effects associated with the gas grid connection are expected to be short-term, not
significant, and neutral, provided that standard construction practices and recommended mitigation
measures are implemented by the responsible party.
Operational Phase
During the operational phase, a structured approach to waste management as set out in Chapter 8
and adherence to the OWMP (which includes mitigation) will promote resource efficiency and waste
minimisation. When the mitigation measures are implemented and a high rate of reuse, recycling and
recovery is achieved, the predicted impact of the operational phase on the environment will be long-
term, imperceptible and neutral. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 71
The proposed development will look to important waste from agricultural industry within the MCC,
with goal of diverting materials from dumping, landfill and incineration, in line with the Irish
governments NWMPCE. The predicted impact of the operational phase on the environment will be
long-term, moderate and positive.
4.5.5 Monitoring
The management of waste during the construction phase will be monitored by the appointed
Resource Manager to ensure compliance with the above-listed mitigation measures, and relevant
waste management legislation and local authority requirements, including maintenance of waste
documentation.
The management of waste during the operational phase will be monitored by the Operator / Facilities
Manager to ensure effective implementation of the mitigation measures onsite and by the nominated
waste contractor(s).
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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4.6 Land & Soils
The assessment of Land & Soils is contained within Chapter 9 of Volume II. Chapter 9 of the EIAR has
been prepared by AWN Consulting Ltd., which assesses and evaluates the likely significant impacts of
the proposed development on the land, soil and geological aspects of the site and surrounding area
associated with the construction of Anaerobic Digestor in Co. Monaghan.
4.6.1 Existing Environment
The site of the Renewable Biogas Plant is located in Maghernakelly, Drum, Co. Monaghan, covering a
total area of approximately 6.2 hectares. It is c.4km north of Cootehill and 17.5km southwest of
Monaghan town. The site is comprised of two fields which are divided by tree lined hedgerows. It is
bounded to the north by L2280 Drumcall Road, to the east by the R189 regional road, and to the west
by Maghernakelly Road. To the south, the site adjoins a farmyard and an existing residential property.
The site is undulating with substantial elevation change from approximately 109mOD in the southern
section to around 93mOD at the northern boundary.
The proposed pipeline is not part of the Proposed Development, however, it is assessed solely because
it is functionally related infrastructure, as required under the EIA Directive. The proposed route is
approximately 3.5km in length and is located along the R189 and R188. The route is entirely within
the existing public road corridor. Shallow excavations are required for the installation of the pipeline.
In areas of water crossing, horizontal directional drilling methodology will be implemented to ensure
minimal disturbance to the underlying geology.
According to GSI (2025), quaternary sediments underlying the Renewable Biogas Plant Site and the
Liner Gas Grid Connection indicate the principal subsoil type in the area comprises of till derived from
tills derived from Palaeozoic Sandstones and Shales which are of low permeability. There is a small
region of Alluvium sediments in the northern section of the proposed site boundary.
The bedrock underlying the Renewable Biogas Plant Site and the Liner Gas Grid Connection is part of
the Red Island Formation and made up of Greywacke, shale, sandstone & conglomerate. The
lithological description comprises Green to greenish-grey medium or coarse grained, locally
conglomeratic, volcaniclastic greywacke.
The Renewable Biogas Plant Site and the Liner Gas Grid Connection lie within the Rockcorry-Cootehill
Ribbed Moraines geological heritage site (Site Code: MN015).
The GSI (2025) mineral database identifies 4 mineral sites identified within a 5 km radius of the
Renewable Biogas Plant Site and the Liner Gas Grid Connection. The closest is located c. 4.5km
southwest of the proposed development.
Historical Ordnance Survey maps were examined to establish historical land use. According to the
1830 Ordnance Survey maps (the historic 6” maps), the Renewable Biogas Site has been unoccupied
and mainly used for farming activities. The southern portion of the site directly borders New Park Farm
and an existing residential property, occupied by the landowner. The 25-inch map indicates an area of
historical marshland. however, current mapping indicates that this area is outside the site boundary. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 73
The closest EPA licensed facility (Carleton Poultry Limited, Licence Ref. P1128) is located c.490m
southeast of the Renewable Biogas Plant site.
4.6.2 Impact Assessment
4.6.2.1 Do Nothing Scenario
If the proposed development was not to go ahead (i.e. in a Do-Nothing scenario) the baseline
environment in terms of land, soils, and geology would remain unchanged as there would be no
excavations or construction. However, it should be noted that there is substantial evidence that
nutrient loading, particularly from poultry litter, is a significant issue in the region. A “Do Nothing”
scenario without a management solution would risk further deterioration in soil quality due to land
spreading which in turn will impact the water quality of receiving water due to surface water runoff.
The proposed biogas facility represents the only proven large-scale solution for poultry litter
management in Ireland, providing a beneficial outlet for this material and reducing diffuse nutrient
pressures. Therefore, in a “Do Nothing” scenario, there would likely continue to be a negative effect
on the geological, hydrological and hydrogeological environment in a broader soil and water quality
context as a result of agricultural run-off to surface waters.
4.6.2.1.1 Renewable Biogas Plant Site
In the do-nothing scenario, there will be no disturbance to the existing green field site and no changes
in levels and the existing use of land and its landscape and visual remain largely unchanged.
4.6.2.1.2 Linear Gas Grid Connection
No gas grid installation over the 3.5 km road would occur under the “Do Nothing” scenario.
Consequently, there would be no disruption to the road corridor, and no temporary disturbance
associated with construction activities such as earthworks.
4.6.2.2 Construction Phase
In absence of mitigation measures, the construction phase would present potential impacts associated
with the following activities:
4.6.2.2.1 Renewable Biogas Site
• Accidental spills, discharges, and leaks.
• Earthworks and Excavations.
• Storage of Hazardous Material.
• Import or Export of Material.
• Human Health and Population
Without the consideration and employment of mitigation measures the potential impacts during the
construction phase on land, soils and geology are short-term, moderate and negative.
4.6.2.3 Linear Gas Grid Connection
The new gas grid connection is proposed on the R189 will require minimal excavation to facilitate the
installation of the pipeline. The works comprise the laying of an underground pipeline over
approximately 3.5 km within the public road corridor. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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However, there is a potential for accidental leaks of fuel from construction plants. There is a potential
for surface water runoff containing contamination and heavy silts to enter excavation trenches.
In the absence of mitigation measures, the potential effects during the construction phase on land
and soils are short-term, slight and negative.
4.6.2.4 Operational Phase
4.6.2.4.1 Renewable Biogas Site
The development will have an effect on recharge to localised portions of soil during the operational
phase due to the introduction of hard stand. This provides protection to the underlying aquifer but
also reduces local recharge in this area of the aquifer. However, the recharge reduction will be in
around the Renewable Biogas site. However, as the area of aquifer is large, this reduction in local
recharge will have no impact in the natural hydrogeological regime. The operational stage of the
Biogas Plant will not involve further disturbance to the topsoil, subsoils and geology of the area.
There are no discharges to ground during the operation of the development. There is a potential for
localised leaks from car park areas. However, all water from any hardstanding areas on site will be
redirected to the attenuation tank. No permeable areas are proposed on site to reintroduce all
captured water into the AD process. All fuels and chemicals stored on site are proposed to be enclosed
in bunded areas and specialist tanks.
In the absence of mitigation measures, the potential effects during the operational phase on land,
soils and geology are long-term, imperceptible and negative.
4.6.2.4.2 Linear Gas Grid Connection
Once the gas transmission pipeline is installed and in operation, there will be no impact during the
operational phase.
4.6.2.5 Cumulative Impact
There are existing residential and commercial developments close by, along with the multiple
permissions remaining in place in the area. Multiple developments in the area could potentially be
developed concurrently or overlap during the construction and operational phases. There are no
significant Proposed Developments which could have a significant cumulative impact on the geological
environment.
The implementation of mitigation and monitoring measures as well as the compliance of other
developments with their respective planning conditions, will ensure there will be minimal cumulative
potential for change to the soils and geological environment during the construction phase of the
proposed development. There are no pathway and connectivity to land soils and geology to each
development. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 75
4.6.3 Mitigation
4.6.3.1 Incorporated Design
4.6.3.1.1 Renewable Biogas Site and Gas Grid Connection
Incorporated design measures will be employed and will include appropriate design measures such as
the proper storage and containment of hazardous substances and proper drainage systems in line
with best practice, standard details, policies and guidelines already incorporated into the proposed
design.
4.6.3.2 Construction Phases
4.6.3.2.1 Renewable Biogas Site
In order to reduce impacts on the land, soils and geological environment, a number of mitigation
measures will be adopted as part of the construction works on site. The measures will address the
main activities of potential impact which include:
• Control of soil excavation and export from site;
• Sources of fill and aggregates for the Proposed Development;
• Fuel and chemical handling, transport and storage; and
• Control of water during construction.
4.6.3.2.2 Linear Gas Grid Connection
These works are outside the applicant’s control as the grid connection will be delivered by Gas
Networks Ireland. However, the recommended mitigation measures are as follows:-
• Management of excavated soils,
• Use of bunded refuelling areas,
• Provision of spill kits,
• Management of surface water runoff in excavations,
• Management and disposal of silt laden runoff from excavations,
• Temporary silt and sediment controls
4.6.3.2.3 Operational Phase
During the operational phase, no disturbance will occur to the soil and geology environment, hence
no mitigation is required.
4.6.4 Residual Impact Assessment
4.6.4.1 Construction Phase
4.6.4.1.1 Renewable Biogas Site
The mitigation and monitoring measures will effectively address potential impacts during the
construction phase, with the residual effect on soils being neutral, imperceptible, and short-term, the
magnitude of impact is considered negligible. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 76
4.6.4.1.2 Gas Grid Connection
Although the gas grid connection will be delivered by a third party, the works associated with
trenching for pipeline installation pose minimal risk. The mitigation and monitoring measures will
effectively address potential impacts during the construction phase, with the residual effect on soils
being neutral, imperceptible, and short-term, the magnitude of impact is considered negligible.
4.6.4.2 Operational Phase
4.6.4.2.1 Renewable Biogas Site
The mitigation and monitoring measures will effectively address potential impacts once the Proposed
Development is operational. The residual effect on soils and geology during the operational phase is
considered neutral, imperceptible, and long-term, with the impact magnitude rated as negligible
according to TII criteria.
4.6.4.2.2 Gas Grid Connection
There is no interaction of the gas grid connection to the geological environment. Hence, there are no
residual effects.
4.6.5 Monitoring
4.6.5.1 Construction Phase
During construction phase the following monitoring measures will be implemented:
• Regular inspection of surface water run-off and sediments controls (e.g., silt traps);
• Soil sampling to confirm disposal options for excavated soils in order to avoid contaminated
run-off;
• Excavation works to be monitored to record any signs of potentially contaminated soil;
• Regular inspection of construction / mitigation measures outlined in the CEMP should be
adhered to during the construction phase. (e.g., concrete pouring, refuelling, etc); and
• Soil sampling of excavated soils and monitoring of surface water run off will be required in
case of accidental discharges to underlying geology.
4.6.6 Operational Phase
• Maintenance of the surface water drainage system, including hydrobrake, separators /
interceptors, and foul sewers is recommended to minimise any accidental discharges to soil
or groundwater.
• Monitoring of surface water runoff will be required in case of accidental discharges to
underlying geology.
• The site will obtain an IED licence for its operation. This will outline monitoring measures to
ensure compliance.
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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4.7 Water & Hydrology
The assessment of Water & Hydrology is contained within Chapter 10 of Volume II. Chapter 10 of the
EIAR has been prepared by AWN Consulting Ltd., which assesses and evaluates the likely significant
impacts of the proposed development on the hydrological and hydrogeological environment of the
site and surrounding area associated with the construction of an Anaerobic Digestor in Co. Monaghan.
4.7.1 Existing Environment
The site of the Renewable Biogas Plant is located in Maghernakelly, Drum, Co. Monaghan, covering a
total area of approximately 6.2. It is c.4km north of Cootehill and 17.5km southwest of Monaghan
town. The site is comprised of two fields which are divided by tree lined hedgerows. It is bounded to
the north by L2280 Drumcall Road, to the east by the R189 regional road, and to the west by
Maghernakelly Road. To the south, the site adjoins a farmyard and an existing residential property.
The site is undulating with substantial elevation change from approximately 109mOD in the southern
section to around 93mOD at the northern boundary. The site is bound by drainage ditches which flow
in a north-northeast direction and discharges runoff via a culvert under the R189 into another land
drain along the northern boundary of the adjacent field to the east, which is hydrologically connected
to the Coolkill Lough Stream, which rises c.175m to the northeast of the L2320.
The proposed pipeline is not part of the Proposed Development, however, it is assessed solely because
it is functionally related infrastructure, as required under the EIA Directive. The proposed route is
approximately 3.5km in length and is located along the R189 and R188. The route is entirely within
the existing public road corridor. Shallow excavations are required for the installation of the pipeline.
There are 3no. of water crossings on Crosslea 36 Stream along the pipeline route. It is recommended
that directional drilling (trenchless drilling) methodology will be implemented along these water
crossings.
The Renewable Biogas Site is located within the Erne WFD Catchment (Catchment ID: 36) and the
Dromore_sc_20 WFD sub-catchment (Dromore 70 WFD River Sub Basin; EPA, 2025).
Two field drains were noted along the western and eastern boundary flowing in a northernly direction
and discharging into an existing drain on the northern boundary of the site parallel to L2280. The
northern drainage ditch discharges via a culvert under the R189 into another drainage ditch, which is
hydrologically connected to the Coolkill Lough Stream (EPA Code: IE_NW_36D020700), located
approximately 350 metres east of the renewable biogas site which subsequently discharges into
Coolkill Lough.
The Rockcorry Stream (EPA Code: IE_NW_36D020700) originates from Coolkill Lough and flows in a
north westerly direction before passing through Drumgole Lough (EPA Code: IE_NW_36_415). It then
continues in a southerly direction before ultimately discharging into the Dromore River (EPA Code:
IE_NW_36D020900), approximately 3 km from the Proposed Development site.
Coolkill Lough stream has a WFD status (2019-2024) of ‘Poor’ as shown in Figure 10.4 and a WFD risk
score of ‘Not achieving Good Status’ by 2027 while the DROMORE_070 waterbody (EPA Code:
IE_NW_36D020900) is currently classified a by the EPA as having ‘Poor’ WFD water quality status
(2019-2024 period) and is WFD risk score of ‘Not achieving Good Status’ by 2027. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 78
There is one known reported abstraction from surface water in the vicinity of the Proposed
Development (Monaghan County Council, 2025). The area is supplied by Drumgole Group Water
Scheme which abstract water from Annaghmakerig Lough located c.1.9km north of the Proposed
Development. However, no hydrological connection is identified between the site and Annaghmakerig
Lough.
There are no recorded past flood events along Coolkill Stream. The closest area prone to reoccurring
flood events have been identified along the Drumgole Lough located c. 980m north of the Proposed
Development.
The proposed development is located within Flood Zone C, i.e., outside of the Low Probability flood
plain (1:1000-year or 0.1% AEP), which is considered low risk and suitable for this type of development.
There are no SPAs, SACs, NHAs, or pNHAs within the Proposed Development site boundary. The
nearest Natura 2000 Site is Kilroosky Lough Cluster SAC (Site code: 001786) located circa 12km north
of the Proposed Development. The development site has no hydrological connection with this SAC.
The site does have an indirect hydrological connection to the Drumgole pNHA (c. 9km Hydrological
distance and Lough Oughter and Associated Loughs SAC (c. 38km hydrological distance). However, the
connection is a long hydrological pathway allowing significant time for settlement and dilution and as
such there is no potential for change in water quality of this receiving habitat.
The site's hydrological features are rated as having 'Low' importance based on TII methodology, as
they are not used for water supply, located in a flood zone, or designated as an amenity area. The
Drumgole pNHA is located 9km downstream of the site (hydrological distance). Hence the potential
for any impact is low.
The Renewable Biogas Site and Gas Grid is underlain by the Cavan groundwater body (GWB) (European
Code: IE_NW_G_061), which has been investigated by the GSI and is described as a ‘Poor Aquifer -
Bedrock which is Generally Unproductive except for Local Zones’. The Cavan GWB for which the site
is located entirely within, has a WFD status of “Good” (WFD Period: 2016-2021) and a WFD risk score
(3rd Cycle) of “Not at Risk” of not achieving good status. T he groundwater vulnerability rating is
classified as ‘Low’ for the Renewable Biogas Site and Gas Grid.
The importance of the hydrogeological features at this site is rated as ‘Low’ importance based on the
assessment that the attribute has a low-quality significance or value on a local scale, based on the fact
that the aquifer beneath the site being classified as a “Poor Aquifer - Bedrock which is Generally
Unproductive except for Local Zones” and contributes to the baseflow of local streams and lough
(Coolkill Stream, Rockcorry Stream and Drumgole Lough).
4.7.2 Impact Assessment
4.7.2.1 Do Nothing
If the Proposed Development was not to go ahead (i.e. in a Do-Nothing scenario) the baseline
environment in terms of hydrology and hydrogeology would remain unchanged as there would be no
excavations or construction. However, it should be noted that there is substantial evidence that
nutrient loading, particularly from poultry manure, is a significant issue in the region. A “do nothing” RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 79
scenario without a management solution would risk further deterioration in water quality. The
proposed biogas facility represents the only proven large-scale solution for poultry manure
management in Ireland, providing a beneficial outlet for this material and reducing diffuse nutrient
pressures. Therefore, in a “Do Nothing” scenario, there would likely continue to be a negative effect
on the hydrological and hydrogeological environment in a broader water quality context as a result of
agricultural run-off to surface waters.
4.7.2.1.1 Renewable Biogas Plant Site
In the do-nothing scenario, there will be no disturbance to the existing surface water drainage and no
changes in aquifer permeability due to increase in hard standing area. The hydrological and
hydrogeological regime of the area will remain largely unchanged either with or without the
development.
4.7.2.1.2 Linear Gas Grid Connection
No gas grid installation over approximately 3 km road would occur under the “Do Nothing” scenario.
Consequently, there would be no disruption to the road corridor, and no temporary disturbance
associated with construction activities such as earthworks. No potential of any accidental discharges
of contaminants during construction stage. The hydrological and hydrogeological regime of the area
will remain largely unchanged wither with or without the development.
4.7.2.2 Construction Phase
4.7.2.2.1 Renewable Biogas Plant Site
In absence of mitigation measures, the construction phase would present potential impacts associated
to the following activities:
• Increased surface run-off and sediment loading in run-off.
• Accidental spills, discharges and leaks associated with hydrocarbon and wastewater.
• Cement and concrete works.
Without the consideration and employment of mitigation measures the potential impacts during the
construction phase on the hydrology, hydrogeology and surface water quality are negative, moderate
and short-term.
4.7.2.2.2 Linear Gas Grid Connection
During construction, the potential for impact is minimal as the pipeline will be installed along the
existing road. However, there is a potential for accidental leaks of fuel from construction plants.
There is a potential for surface water runoff containing contamination and heavy silts to enter
excavation trenches.
In the absence of mitigation measures the potential impacts during the construction phase on surface
water and groundwater quantity and flow are negative, slight and short term. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 80
4.7.2.3 Operational Phase
4.7.2.3.1 Renewable Biogas Plant Site
In absence of mitigation methods, the operational phase would present potential impacts associated
to the following activities:
• Accidental Leaks /Unmitigated spills from vehicles.
• Increased surface run-off and sediment loading in run-off associated with proposed discharge.
• Increase in hardstanding.
In the absence of mitigation measures (or design measures) the potential impacts during the
operational phase on hydrology, hydrogeology and surface water quality are negative, moderate, and
long-term.
4.7.2.4 Linear Gas Grid Connection
Once the gas connection pipeline is installed. No potential effects are foreseen during the operation
phase since there is no interaction with any waterways. Hence no mitigation is required.
4.7.2.5 Cumulative Impact
The works contractors for other planned or permitted developments will be obliged to ensure that
measures are in place to protect surface water and groundwater quality in compliance with legislative
standards for receiving groundwater quality (European Communities Environmental Objectives
(Groundwater) Regulations (S.I. 9 of 2010 and S.I. 266 of 2016) and surface water quality (European
Communities Environmental Objectives (Surface Water) Regulations (S.I. 272 of 2009 and S.I. 77 of
2019).
The implementation of mitigation and monitoring measures as well as the compliance of other
developments with their respective planning conditions, will ensure there will be minimal cumulative
potential for change to the hydrological and hydrogeological environment during the construction
phase of the proposed development.
All developments are required to ensure they do not have an impact on the receiving water
environment in accordance with the relevant legislative standards for receiving groundwater quality
(European Communities Environmental Objectives (Groundwater) Regulations (S.I. 9 of 2010 and S.I.
266 of 2016) and surface water quality (European Communities Environmental Objectives (Surface
Water) Regulations (S.I. 272 of 2009 and S.I. 77 of 2019).
The residual cumulative impact of the proposed development in combination with other planned or
permitted developments can therefore be considered to be neutral, imperceptible and short-term.
4.7.3 Mitigation
4.7.3.1 Incorporated Design
4.7.3.1.1 Renewable Biogas Plant and Gas Grid Connection
This section outlines the measures that will be employed in order to ensure the project has minimal
adverse effects on the surrounding environment, in this case hydrogeology and hydrology. These RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 81
measures include appropriate design measures such as the proper storage and containment of
hazardous substances and proper drainage systems in line with best practice, standard details, policies
and guidelines.
4.7.3.2 Construction Phases
4.7.3.2.1 Renewable Biogas Plant
In order to reduce impacts on the hydrological and hydrogeological environment, a number of
mitigation measures will be adopted as part of the construction works on site.
• Fuel and chemical handling.
• Onsite Wastewater / Surface Water treatment.
• Implementation of Soil and Surface water Management Plan.
• Silt reduction measures on site will include a combination of silt fencing and settlement
measures (silt traps, silt sacks and settlement tanks/ponds).
• Control of concrete works.
4.7.3.3 Linear Gas Grid Connection
These works are outside the applicant’s control as the grid connection will be delivered by Gas
Networks Ireland. However, the recommended mitigations measures are as follows.
• management of excavated soils,
• use of bunded refuelling areas,
• provision of spill kits,
• management of surface water runoff in excavations,
• management and disposal of silt laden runoff from excavations,
• temporary silt and sediment controls
4.7.3.4 Operational Phase
4.7.3.4.1 Renewable Biogas Plant
The surface water drainage strategy integrates various measures, including attenuation tanks and
harvesting storage connected to hydrocarbon interceptor, silt trap and hydrobrake to control
greenfield run off rate of discharge to local watercourse/drainage ditches.
A water treatment system comprising SDS Aquaswirl Vortex Pollutant Separation System Chambers
and SDS Aquafilter Surface Water Filtration Units will be installed on the inlet pipework to the
attenuation tanks, to reduce the overall amount of total suspended solids, heavy metals, and
hydrocarbons within the surface water run-off. Any harvested surface water used in the plant process
or discharged from the site will have undergone treatment via these units. Hence mitigating the risk
of any potential contamination being discharged from site and affecting the water quality of the
Coolkill Lough, Rockcorry Streams, Drumgole Lough and the Dromore River.
The development will incorporate SuDS and an underground attenuation system, with a design that
up to and including the 100-year plus 30% climate change allowance and discharge surface water to
the downstream network at greenfield rates at 83.5l/s for a 1-in-100-year event. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 82
4.7.3.5 Linear Gas Grid Connection
During the operational phase, there will be no impact on the hydrological and hydrogeological regime,
hence no mitigation is recommended.
4.7.4 Residual Impact Assessment
4.7.4.1 Construction Phases
4.7.4.1.1 Renewable Biogas Plant
The mitigation and monitoring measures will effectively reduce potential impacts on the hydrological
and hydrogeological environment during construction. There will be no significant change in flow or
quality. The residual effect on surface water and groundwater quality during construction is
considered neutral, imperceptible and short-term.
4.7.4.1.2 Gas Grid Connection
Although the gas grid connection will be delivered by a third party. The works associated with
trenching for pipeline installation pose minimal risk. The mitigation and monitoring measures will
effectively reduce potential impacts on the hydrological and hydrogeological environment during
construction. There will be no significant change in flow or quality. The residual effect on surface water
and groundwater quality during construction is considered neutral, imperceptible and short term.
4.7.4.2 Operational Phase
4.7.4.2.1 Renewable Biogas Plant
The mitigation and monitoring measures will effectively reduce potential impacts on the hydrological
and hydrogeological environment during construction. There will be no significant change in flow or
quality. The residual effect on surface water and groundwater quality during construction is
considered neutral, imperceptible and long-term.
4.7.4.3 Gas Grid Connection
There is no interaction of the gas grid connection to the hydrological environment. Hence, there are
no residual effects.
4.7.5 Monitoring
4.7.5.1 Construction Phase
During construction phase the following monitoring measures will be considered for the Renewable
Biogas site and the gas grid connection:
• Weekly checks will be carried out to ensure surface water drains are not blocked by silt, or
other items, and that all storage is located at least 10 m from surface water receptors.
• Regular inspection of surface water run-off and sediments controls will be implemented
throughout the construction phase and full adherence to the Outline Construction
Environmental Plan and Soil and Surface Water Management Plan will be maintained. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 83
• Runoff diversion channels/bunds need regular maintenance to keep functioning throughout
their life.
• Soil sampling to confirm disposal options for excavated soils in order to avoid contaminated
run-off; and
• Regular inspection of construction / mitigation measures (e.g., concrete pouring, refuelling,
etc).
• Monitoring will be adopted to ensure that the water is of sufficient quality to discharge to the
stormwater network.
4.7.6 Operational Stage
4.7.6.1 Renewable Biogas Site.
During operational phase the following monitoring measures will be considered.
• Oil separators will be maintained and cleaned out in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions.
• Maintenance of the surface water drainage system, On site surface water treatment system
and foul treatment system is recommended to minimise any accidental discharges to surface
water.
4.7.6.2 Gas Grid Connection
There is no interaction identified with the hydrological environment during the operation phase. No
monitoring is required.
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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4.8 Biodiversity
The assessment of Biodiversity is contained within Chapter 11 of Volume II of the EIAR. The chapter
evaluates and assesses likely significant effects on flora and fauna as a result of potential impacts
arising from all components of the Project. This was achieved through desktop study of ecological data
for the study area and optimally timed field surveys of habitats and species to evaluate the value and
sensitivity of identified ecological features. The potential for direct, indirect, and cumulative impacts
on biodiversity was assessed and mitigation measures to avoid or reduce adverse ecological impacts
identified (as necessary). Mitigation measures have been recommended where avoidance is not
feasible, allowing for the appropriate and proportionate identification of residual effects and
monitoring requirements. The desktop and field survey work was undertaken and chapter prepared
by competent experts in the field of ecology and in line with industry standard guidelines such as the
‘Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment in the UK and Ireland: Terrestrial, Freshwater, Coastal
and Marine’ (CIEEM, 2024).
4.8.1 Existing Environment
The assessment identified three distinct elements of the project, which include the renewable biogas
site and gas pipeline.
The renewable biogas site is located across two separate fields and comprised of improved agricultural
grassland bordered by well-managed hedgerows, drainage ditches and roads. The fields are separated
by an overgrown hedgerow, interspersed with a mix of tree species. The land naturally drains towards
the north-east with a ditch along the northern field boundary conveying surface water runoff (via a
culvert under the R189) towards the Coolkill Lough Stream.
The gas pipeline is primarily comprised of dry meadow and grassy verges along with amenity
grassland, recolonising bare ground, buildings and artificial surfaces, stone walls and other stonework,
reed and large sedge swamps and drainage ditches.
During field surveys, there were no protected mammals recorded within the redline boundary. One
Red Fox was recorded on trail cameras indicating occasional use. Bat survey work indicated moderate
foraging and commuting potential associated with the hedgerows and treeline, however no bat roosts
were identified. Acoustic monitoring did not record any bat activity within the proposed development
site.
In terms of birds, most recorded species are common passerines, characteristic of this habitat, with
no Annex I species (EU Birds Directive 2009/147/EC) observed during surveys. Bird species were
recorded as flying over, and there was limited evidential usage of the site. Meadow pipits (red-listed)
were the only species identified as feeding within the redline boundary, however, no breeding or
nesting behaviour had been identified. The site’s avian ecological value is low due to the widespread
availability of similar farmland habitats in the region. As part of the wintering bird surveys, the majority
of species found on site were passerine bird species typical of the environment. No Annex I species
recorded under the EU habitats directive, were recorded. No protected amphibian species were
recorded during optimal breeding conditions. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 85
Overall, the ecological evaluation indicates that the project area predominantly supports habitats and
species of low to moderate local value. Hedgerows and treelines provide some connectivity and
foraging opportunities for bats and common passerines, but no evidence of Annex I or II species was
recorded. Drainage ditches and improved agricultural grassland offer limited biodiversity due to
management and lack of suitable conditions for amphibians or other protected fauna. Overall, the site
is largely of local ecological importance only, with no features of high or regional significance
identified.
The site is neither within, adjacent, or close to any Natura 2000 or OSPAR Ramsar sites. In terms of
Special Areas of Conservation (SAC’s), those nearest to the site by way of straight line distance are as
follows: Kilroosky Lough Cluster SAC (001786): 12.2 km north-west; Magheraveely Marl Loughs SAC
(UK0016621): 13 km north-west; and Lough Oughter and Associated Loughs SAC (000007) 14.8 km
south-west. In terms of Special Protection Areas (SPA’s), those nearest to the site by way of straight
line distance are as follows: Upper Lough Erne SPA (UK9020071): 11.4 km west; and Lough Oughter
Complex SPA (004049): 20.6 km to the south-west. In terms of Ramsar sites, those nearest to the site
by way of straight line distance are Upper Lough Erne Ramsar site (UK12024) located approximately
11.3 km west; and Magheraveely Marl Loughs Ramsar Site (UK12017) located approximately 13 km
north-west.
The proposed development site is located within the upper part of the Coolkill Lough Stream
Waterbody (EU Code: IE_NW_36D020700) and is hydrologically connected to this waterbody via the
network of drainage ditches that surround the site. The upper reach of this river waterbody is located
approximately 80 m east of the adjacent field which is east of the site and is hydrologically connected
to a number of downstream waterbodies which provide eventual connection to the ANNALEE_090
Waterbody in Ballyhaise. This is where water that rises in the vicinity of the site eventually reaches
the nearest hydrologically connected Natura 2000 site (Lough Oughter and Associated Loughs SAC)
approximately 38 km downstream. The site is a maze of waterways, islands, small lakes and peninsulas
including some 90 inter-drumlin lakes and 14 basins in the course of the Erne River. The hydrological
distance from the site is considerable, with a vast array of feeder tributaries, lakes and rivers draining
towards into it from within the wider County Monaghan and Cavan areas.
No statutorily designated Natural Heritage Areas (NHAs) lie within 15 km of the proposed
development site. Seven proposed NHAs (pNHAs) are within the 23 km ZoI with Drumgole Lough pNHA
(approximately 885 m north of the red line boundary) being closest to the proposed development site.
It has an 8.6 km indirect hydrological link (via drainage ditches that outfall into the Coolkill Lough
Stream).
4.8.2 Impact Assessment
4.8.2.1 Do Nothing
Under the “Do Nothing” scenario, the proposed renewable biogas facility and gas pipeline would not
proceed, and ecological features and conditions identified above would remain largely unchanged.
The biodiversity value of the site would persist, and habitat structure / species assemblages would
remain characteristic of a managed agricultural landscape. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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Nutrient inputs associated with the existing agricultural regime would continue. While this does not
represent a change from baseline conditions at the site, it reflects the ongoing wider water-quality
pressures in the region, including within the upper catchment of the Coolkill Lough Stream. The “Do
Nothing” scenario therefore maintains the current low-level risk of nutrient mobilisation associated
with agricultural practice.
4.8.2.2 Construction Phase
Construction will result in the removal of approximately 6.2 ha of improved agricultural grassland,
along with a tree-lined hedgerow running through the centre of the biogas site. Hedgerows along the
L2280 will also be removed to accommodate the partial realignment of the road and the required
visibility splays from the proposed development junction onto the L2280. In addition, a section of
hedgerow along the R189 will be removed to facilitate the visibility splay from the modified junction.
Impacts are minor negative, local and short-term in duration during the construction phase.
The gas pipeline may result in the loss of some dry meadows and grassy verges however the impact
will be largely neutral and short-term.
There was no Invasive Alien Plant Species (IAPS) identified within the renewable biogas site, thus,
there is unlikely potential for spread of invasives.
The local bird population shall face short-term disturbance within 500 m of the works, however the
effects are considered to be minor negative and short-term due to the lack of recorded foraging and
nesting activity.
No bat roosts or recorded activity were identified within the renewable biogas site. Hedgerows and
treelines however provide moderate foraging and commuting habitat, and their removal may result
in minor habitat loss. During the construction phase, minor negative, short-term impacts on foraging
and commuting bats may occur.
During construction, the works have the potential to mobilise sediments and contaminants that may
have an adverse impact upon water quality within the Coolkill Lough Stream catchment. These impacts
are anticipated to be minor adverse and short-term.
4.8.2.3 Operational Phase
During the operational phase of the proposed development, the removal of approximately 6.2 ha of
improved agricultural grassland and sections of hedgerow will result in a reduction of habitats of local
ecological value. Without mitigation, this represents a long-term loss of species-poor grassland and
connectivity features for fauna, and thus constitutes a significant localised long-term loss, though this
type of habitat is replicated largely everywhere throughout the region. The gas pipeline shall not result
in any habitat loss, disturbance or fragmentation. The impact is therefore neutral.
Due to negligible bat, badger and bird activity identified within the renewable biogas site, the impact
associated with the loss of habitats shall be minor negative and long-term. The gas pipeline shall be
restored to original habitat conditions, thus the effect shall be neutral and long-term. Artificial lighting
shall be introduced into the red line boundary with potential for overspill onto the retained hedgerow RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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and treelines that bats may use for commuting and foraging. Due to negligible bat activity, the site is
not considered sensitive, thus the impact would be minor negative and long-term.
In terms of water quality, the gas pipeline shall be restored back to the original state, thus there would
be a neutral long-term impact. The operation of the renewable biogas plant shall minimise the
potential for discharge of stormwater (which may contain contaminants) through rainwater
harvesting, containment, retention and monitoring. There may be some localised impacts through
traffic movements so it is anticipated that minor adverse impacts could potentially occur.
4.8.2.4 Cumulative Impact
In view of the local baseline conditions (improved agricultural grassland and hedgerows of low to
moderate ecological value) and the absence of statutory designated habitats on-site, the incremental
contribution of the proposed development to biodiversity pressures is low. There are no overlapping
developments known within the immediate vicinity that would amplify habitat loss or fragmentation
from this project.
Therefore, whilst the broader county-level context underlines the importance of maintaining
ecological networks, the proposed project’s additional impact on those networks is assessed as not
significant, provided the development is implemented with standard good practice.
4.8.3 Mitigation
4.8.3.1 Incorporated Design
The proposed development has been designed to incorporate environmental best practices and
features that minimise potential impacts on the surrounding environment, in line with Irish and EU
environmental standards. These design elements are principally inherent to the project though would
provide protection from an ecological perspective. The facility will be a state-of-the-art, highly
regulated plant incorporating best available technologies (BAT) and operating systems to ensure
environmental protection and operational efficiency. In summary these include:
• engineered stormwater drainage system complying with Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS)
principles;
• engineered containment system conforming with CIRIA design standards;
• rainwater harvesting, prioritising areas where risk of contamination is highest (i.e. bund area);
• reuse of process effluent;
• indoor and sealed handling of materials;
• application of ecological exclusion zones around ditches;
• emission control multi-stage odour control system and compliance with regulatory standards;
and
• implementation of a comprehensive landscape management plan.
4.8.3.2 Construction Phases
All mitigation measures described in the outline Construction Environmental Management Plan
(oCEMP), as well as those described in the Air Quality, Landscape, Land & Soils, Noise & Vibrations, RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 88
and Water chapters of the EIAR, are deemed adopted for the purposes of ecological protection during
construction.
4.8.3.3 Operational Phase
Lighting utilised onsite shall be an anti-glare optic design and International Dark Sky Association
approved, which minimises upward light spill and onto boundary vegetation. Furthermore, lighting is
in compliance with the Lighting Professionals ILP Guidance note for the reduction of Obtrusive Light
and utilises timeclock controls to turn off lighting after 21:00 in order to minimise impacts to foraging
and commuting bats. The lighting scheme is based on 8m high free standing light columns fitted with
cut off horizontal cowls to minimise light spill and direct light downwards. This shall prevent overspill
into ecologically sensitive locations (i.e. the new woodland planting and hedgerows). Bat boxes can
also be provided at suitable locations throughout the site to enhance habitat provision.
4.8.4 Residual Impact Assessment
Based on the above, there shall not be any significant negative effects associated with the proposed
development following the implementation of the mitigation measures. There will instead be long-
term, beneficial effects associated with the landscape management plan. The landscape management
plan shall have beneficial effects to badgers, bats and birds.
4.8.5 Monitoring
The proposed development cannot operate without an Industrial Emissions (IE) License, which is
issued and regulated by the EPA. Under the EPA Act, 1992, the EPA issues licences that contain strict
conditions on how an activity must operate so as to protect the environment.
As part of the CEMP, the CEMP Coordinator will ensure that weekly checks for unusual species,
mortalities, or habitat damage (e.g., hedgerow gaps) during the works. Pollution prevention measures
(e.g., bunds, separators) will also be inspected. The Contractor shall also prepare a Landscape and
Ecology Aftercare Plan to be implemented for 3 full growing seasons after planting or 3 years after
completion of the site, whichever is the longer. The plan shall be included as part of the CEMP and
shall include, without limitation, the following:
• tree surgery;
• protection, management and maintenance of existing retained vegetation; and
• protection, management and maintenance of new planting, seeding and habitat creation
areas.
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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4.9 Noise & Vibration
The assessment of Noise & Vibration is contained within Chapter 12 of Volume II.
4.9.1 Existing Environment
The proposed development site lies approximately 4.2 km northwest of Cootehill, 11.2 km southeast
of Clones, and 17.5 km south of Monaghan Town and is in a rural setting.
Baseline noise monitoring has been completed in the vicinity of the proposed development. The
results of the survey indicate the existing noise environment is low and reflects the rural setting of the
area. The main noise contributors noted during the surveys were leaf rustle, bird song and surrounding
agricultural activities. There are no notable sources of vibration in the surrounding environment.
4.9.2 Impact Assessment
4.9.2.1 Do Nothing Scenario
Under the “Do Nothing” scenario, the proposed development is not developed at the site and the
existing and the prevailing ambient and background noise environment would remain largely
unchanged. There are no known planned transport or other industrial facilities in the immediate
surroundings that would alter the ambient and background noise environment as part of the “Do
Nothing” scenario. Smaller scale local farm enterprises will likely develop in the area as part of the
“Do Nothing” scenario, but area unlikely to significantly alter the baseline noise environment over
what was measured to date given the presence of this type of activity in the surrounding area.
4.9.2.2 Construction Phase
The highest potential noise and vibration impacts associated with the Proposed Development will
occur during the construction phase due to the different phases of work requiring a range of
construction plant and equipment with high noise levels.
The construction programme will last approximately two years and will be undertaken over a number
of phases from site clearance through to fit out and commissioning works. The nearest Noise Sensitive
Locations (NSLs) to the proposed development are existing residential dwellings that are set back from
the south, east and northern boundaries.
Indicative ranges of noise levels associated with construction have been calculated in accordance with
the methodology set out in BS 5228-1 (BSI 2019). Construction noise effects associated with the
Renewable Biogas Plant Site are determined to be negative, slight to very significant and temporary
to short term at the nearest NSLs to the site without mitigation. Highest construction noise levels and
effects are calculated during the early stage site establishment and utility diversion works at the two
closest NSLs to the southeast and southwest of the site which are within the ownership of the involved
landowner. At all other NSLs beyond the immediate site boundary, construction noise effects are
negative, slight to moderate and short-term.
During construction of the gas pipeline, construction noise impacts are determined to be negative,
slight to moderate and temporary at the closest NSLs, without mitigation. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 90
The potential vibration effects associated with the proposed development are negative, not significant
and temporary to short-term.
4.9.2.3 Operational Phase
The Renewable Biogas Plant will operate 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, however all deliveries to
the plant via the public road network will be confined to the hours between 7am and 7pm Monday to
Saturday.
A detailed 3D noise model of the proposed development has been undertaken to calculate the
operational plant scenarios to its surrounding environment. The model takes account of source noise
levels associated with all operational plant and processes associated with the proposed development.
The assessment has determined the proposed Renewable Biogas Plant site can operate within the
daytime, evening and night-time noise criteria adopted for an area of low background noise in
accordance with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)s, noise guidance document for licenced
facilities (NG4 2016).
It is noted the proposed Renewable Biogas Plant development will introduce a new noise source to a
rural location and will alter the character of the background noise environment. There will be an
increase in the background noise levels at the closest NSLs, with highest increases experienced at noise
receptor locations immediately to the south of the site. Both of these properties are within the
ownership of the involved landowner. Having regard to the recognised change in the noise
environment but the overall low absolute operational noise levels that are within the design criteria
at all NSLs, the operational noise effects are deemed to be negative, slight and long-term.
Access to the proposed development site is from the L2280 approximately 200m west of the R189.
The proposal is for site traffic to come and go from the east using Regional Road R189 and the
easternmost 200m of Local Road L2280. The potential noise impact associated with additional traffic
volumes along the surrounding road network has determined to be negative, imperceptible to slight
and long-term.
4.9.2.4 Cumulative Impact
In terms of potential cumulative effects, a review of all planned or proposed projects within 1km of
the proposed development boundary has been undertaken. Beyond this distance, there are no
potential for any significant cumulative noise impact to occur. The assessment has concluded that due
to the nature, scale and location of the surrounding developments, there are no potential for any
significant cumulative noise or vibration impacts.
4.9.3 Mitigation
4.9.3.1 Incorporated Design
The proposed Renewable Biogas Plant incorporates noise control measures through the following:
• The site layout incorporates a significant amount of screening arounds its southern and
eastern boundaries through the use of earth berms which will be developed during the initial
stages of the earthworks to control noise emissions from the site. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 91
• All site processes will be undertaken within the main process building which will fully enclose
site activities (tipper areas, pre-treatment areas, processing areas). All HGV entry points to
buildings have fast acting roller shutter doors to maintain the building closed at all times.
• All plant and equipment proposed in the external utility areas are subject to noise-level
specifications to ensure compliance with the operational noise limits.
4.9.3.2 Construction Phases
The construction phase appraisal has indicated that, during the various key activities proposed as part
of this development, construction activities have the potential to generate noise levels in excess of
the construction noise thresholds at the closest NSLs, particularly during the early stage construction
phases where heavy plant and equipment will be used. During all construction phases best practice
noise and vibration control measures will be employed by the contractor in order to avoid significant
effects at the nearest sensitive buildings. The best practice measures set out in BS 5228 (2009 +A1
2014) Parts 1 and 2 will be complied with. This includes guidance on several aspects of construction
site mitigation measures, including, but not limited to:
• Selection of quiet plant;
• Noise control at source;
• Screening;
• Liaison with the public, and;
• Monitoring.
An outline Construction Environmental Management Plan (oCEMP) has been prepared which sets out
the key environmental control measures during the construction phase which is referred to in
Appendix 2.1 in Volume III of this EIAR.
4.9.3.3 Operational Phase
Practicable noise control measures will be employed to ensure that noise from process and building
services plant do not exceed the operational noise limits set out in Chapter 12 of the EIAR which are
set in accordance with the EPA NG4 (2016) document. The various operational noise source data used
for the development of the site models are deemed to be the maximum operational noise levels for
each which are set out in Appendix 12.3 of this EIAR
All plant will be selected to not generate audible tonal emissions.
4.9.4 Residual Impact Assessment
4.9.4.1 Construction Phase
During the construction phase of the project, with mitigation, there is potential for construction noise
levels to be reduced at the closest NSLs during construction using the suite of mitigation measures set
out in Chapter 12. Overall impacts are likely to be negative, not significant and temporary to short
term to negative, moderate and temporary to short term at nearby noise sensitive properties
Vibration effects during this phase are determined to be negative, not significant and temporary to
short term. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 92
4.9.4.2 Operational Phase
During the operational phase of the proposed development, the predicted noise impacts are negative,
slight to moderate and long-term.
During the operational phase of the proposed development, there are no significant sources of
vibration. Predicted impacts are neutral, not significant and long-term.
4.9.5 Monitoring
4.9.5.1 Construction Phase
Noise monitoring is recommended during the construction phase to control construction noise levels.
Prior to the construction works commencing on site, environmental noise monitors will be installed at
selected monitoring locations. The CEMP Coordinator will be responsible for ensuring all monitoring
is set up in a timely manner and the results are reviewed on an ongoing basis for compliance.
Noise monitoring will be conducted in accordance with the International Standard ISO 1996: 2017:
Acoustics – Description, measurement and assessment of environmental noise.
4.9.5.2 Operational Phase
Monitoring of operational phase noise emissions as per the conditions of the future required Industrial
Emissions (IE) Licence for the site will be undertaken in line with the EPA requirements. It is envisioned
this will be undertaken on an annual basis once operational.
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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4.10 Air Quality
The assessment of Air Quality is contained within Chapter 13 of Volume II.
4.10.1 Existing Environment
Baseline data and data available from similar environments indicates that levels of nitrogen dioxide
(NO2), particulate matter less than 10 microns (PM10) and particulate matter less than 2.5 microns
(PM2.5) and are generally well below the National and European Union (EU) ambient air quality
standards.
4.10.2 Impact Assessment
4.10.2.1 Do Nothing Scenario
Under the “Do Nothing” scenario, there would be no construction of the Renewable Biogas Plant. As
a result, there would be no change to the existing use as an agricultural land. No gas grid installation
over the 3.5 km road would occur and consequently, there would be no disruption to the road corridor
and no temporary disturbance associated with construction activities such as earthworks. There
would be no associated potential ground-disturbance dust, and no construction-phase vehicle or
machinery emissions.
Without an AD facility, there are therefore no process emissions from the proposed AD facility and no
changes in traffic emissions associated with the development which could impact local air quality. The
ambient air quality at the whole project site will remain as per the baseline and will change in
accordance with trends within the wider area (including influences from potential new developments
in the surrounding area, changes in road traffic, etc).
However, the county faces a critical poultry waste management challenge, with high concentrations
of production that cannot be addressed at scale by small, dispersed measures alone. The proposed
development represents the only proven large-scale solution currently implemented in the country.
The gas grid in Co. Monaghan is extremely limited. While this particular site may remain undeveloped,
it is very likely that a facility of similar scale will be developed locally, as the waste issue must be
addressed to ensure a viable poultry industry, protect water quality, and manage environmental
pressures. Such a facility would be expected to generate comparable types of emissions and therefore
similar categories of air quality impacts. With a similar AD facility in place in the Do-Nothing scenario,
the effects on local air quality are expected to be similar in type and magnitude to those of the
proposed Renewable Biogas Plant Site, described in Section 13.10.2.1 in Chapter 13 Air Quality of the
EIAR.
4.10.2.2 Construction Phases
An assessment of the potential dust impacts as a result of the construction phase of the proposed
development was carried out based on the UK Institute for Air Quality Management 2024 guidance
document ‘Guidance on the Assessment of Dust from Demolition and Construction’. This established
the sensitivity of the area to impacts from construction dust in terms of dust soiling of property,
human health and ecological effects. The surrounding area was assessed as being of medium RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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sensitivity to dust soiling, low sensitivity to dust-related human health effects and medium sensitivity
to dust-related ecological effects.
The sensitivity of the area was combined with the dust emission magnitude for the site under three
distinct categories: earthworks, construction and trackout (movement of vehicles) in order to
determine the mitigation measures necessary to avoid significant dust impacts. It was determined
that there is at most a medium risk of dust related impacts associated with the proposed
development. In the absence of mitigation there is the potential for direct, short-term, negative and
slight impacts to air quality.
In addition, construction phase traffic emissions have the potential to impact air quality, particularly
due to the increase in the number of HGVs accessing the site. Construction stage traffic did not meet
the scoping criteria for a detailed modelling assessment outlined in Transport Infrastructure Ireland’s
2022 guidance document ‘Air Quality Assessment of Specified Infrastructure Projects – PE-ENV-01106’
As a result a detailed air assessment of construction stage traffic emissions has been scoped out from
any further assessment and the construction stage traffic emissions will have a direct, short-term,
negative and imperceptible impact on air quality.
4.10.2.3 Operational Phase
Operational phase traffic has the potential to impact air quality due to vehicle exhaust emissions as a
result of the increased number of vehicles accessing the site. The change in traffic associated with the
operational phase of the proposed development did not meet the PE-ENV-01106 criteria requiring a
detailed air dispersion modelling assessment. Therefore, it can be determined that during the
operational phase, the proposed development will have a direct, long-term, negative and
imperceptible impact on air quality.
The operational assessment involved air dispersion modelling of pollutant emissions from the 2 no.
CHP, 1 no. boiler, 1 no. dryer and 1 no. odour control stack as part of the proposed development. The
assessment evaluated the impacts from nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), ammonia
(NH3), sulphur dioxide (SO2) and odour emissions at off-site locations including nearby residential
properties. The dispersion modelling has determined that concentrations of all pollutants are in
compliance with the relevant ambient air quality standards. The effect of operational phase emission
from the proposed development will be direct, long-term, negative and slight.
4.10.2.4 Cumulative Impact
There is the potential for cumulative impacts to air quality should the construction phase of the
proposed development coincide with that of other developments within 500m of the site. A review of
proposed/permitted developments in the vicinity of the site was undertaken and relevant
developments with the potential for cumulative impacts were identified.
There is a medium risk of dust impacts associated with the proposed development. The dust mitigation
measures outlined in Section 13.9 of Chapter 13 will be applied during the construction phase which
will avoid significant cumulative impacts on air quality. With appropriate mitigation measures in place,
the predicted cumulative impacts on air quality associated with the construction phase of the RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 95
proposed development and the permitted cumulative developments are deemed direct, short-term,
negative and not significant.
The cumulative impact of operational phase emissions of NH3 from the proposed development and
other nearby industrial sites with relevant air emissions and an IE licence was assessed. The dispersion
modelling has determined that concentrations of all pollutants are in compliance with the relevant
ambient air quality standards. The effect of cumulative emissions will be direct, long-term, negative
and slight.
Overall no significant impacts to air quality are predicted during the construction or operational
phases of the proposed development.
4.10.3 Mitigation
4.10.3.1 Incorporated Design
The proposed development has been designed in terms of emission point stack heights, combustion
plant technical specifications and odour control technology to ensure compliance with the emission
limit values and conditions of its Industrial Emissions Licence P1018-01.
4.10.3.2 Construction Phases
Detailed dust mitigation measures, derived from the Institute for Air Quality Management 2024
guidance ‘Guidance on the Assessment of Dust from Demolition and Construction’ as well as other
relevant dust management guidance, are outlined within Section 13.11 of Chapter 13 and also in the
Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) to ensure that no significant nuisance as a
result of construction dust emissions occurs at nearby sensitive receptors.
4.10.3.3 Operational Phase
The effect of the operational phase on air quality has been assessed as direct, long-term, negative and
not significant. As the predicted concentrations of pollutants will be not significant, no mitigation is
required.
4.10.4 Residual Impact Assessment
Once these best practice dust mitigation measures are implemented, the impacts to air quality during
the construction of the proposed development are considered direct, short-term, negative and not
significant, posing no nuisance at nearby sensitive receptors (such as local residences).
4.10.5 Monitoring
The monitoring measures are proposed to ensure the dust mitigation measures are working
satisfactorily, full details of which can be found in Section 13.9 of Chapter 13 and the CEMP.
Monitoring as per the conditions of the future required IE Licence for the site will be undertaken in
line with the EPA requirements.
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4.11 Climate
The assessment of Climate is contained within Chapter 14 of Volume II.
4.11.1 Existing Environment
The existing climate baseline can be determined by reference to data from the EPA on Ireland’s total
greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and compliance with European Union’s Effort Sharing Decision “EU
2020 Strategy” (Decision 406/2009/EC). The EPA estimate that Ireland had total GHG emissions of
53.82 Mt CO2e in 2024. The data indicate that from 2021- 2024 Ireland has used 79% (186 Mt CO2e)
of the 295 Mt CO2e Carbon Budget for the five-year period 2021-2025. This leaves 21% of the budget
available for 2025, requiring a substantial 17.5% annual emissions reduction for 2025 to stay within
budget.
4.11.2 Impact Assessment
4.11.2.1 Do Nothing Scenario
In the Do Nothing Scenario, where the proposed development is not constructed, the operational GHG
emissions offsets associated with the proposed development will not occur, directly impacting
Ireland’s trajectory to net zero by 2050 and its ability to meet sectoral targets for ele ctricity,
agriculture, waste as set out in Climate Action Plan 2025 (CAP25). Decarbonising sectors which
currently rely on natural gas with biomethane, as well as agriculture by reducing its reliance on
synthetic fertilisers, is a key strategy in CAP25. The Do Nothing scenario, without the GHG emissions
savings potential of the proposed development, will therefore have a negative effect on climate.
4.11.2.2 Greenhouse Gas Assessment
Calculation of the GHG emissions associated with the construction of the proposed development was
calculated using the online Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) Carbon Assessment Tool and
information provided by the design team. GHG emissions associated with the proposed development
are predicted to be a small fraction of Ireland’s Electricity, Industry, Transport and Agriculture sector
2030 emissions ceilings. The proposed development will incorporate some mitigation measures which
will aim to reduce climate impacts during construction and once the development is operational.
The proposed development will result in GHG emissions offsets through using feedstock to produce
biogas, thereby avoiding methane emissions, and displacement of fossil methane by biomethane,
thereby avoiding use of the more carbon intensive natural gas, as well as digestate biofertiliser and
biogenic CO2. This is a positive impact on Ireland’s greenhouse gas emissions, in line with the 2024
and 2025 Climate Action Plan, the National Biomethane Strategy, the National Planning Framework,
the Northern & Western Regional Assembly Regional Spatial And Economic Strategy 2020-2032, and
Ireland’s obligatory EU GHG net zero by 2050 trajectory.
As per the TII 2022 guidance document, Climate Guidance for National Roads, Light Rail, and Rural
Cycleways (Offline & Greenways) - Overarching Technical Document (PE-ENV-01104), the significance
of the effect of GHG emissions on climate is assessed for the total GHG emissions across all proposed
development stages, and is determined by two main factors - the extent to which the trajectory of
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of mitigation taking place. In accordance with the TII guidance and the EPA guidelines (EPA, 2022), the
significance of effect of GHG emissions during the construction and operational phase is direct, long-
term, positive and slight, which is overall not significant in EIA terms.
4.11.2.2.1 Climate Change Risk Assessment
A Climate Change Risk Assessment (CCRA) was conducted to consider the vulnerability of the proposed
development to climate change, as per the aforementioned TII 2022 guidance (PE-ENV-01104). This
involves an analysis of the sensitivity and exposure of the development to future climate hazards
which together provide a measure of vulnerability. The hazards assessed included flooding (coastal,
pluvial, fluvial); extreme heat; extreme cold; drought; extreme wind; lightning; hail; fog; wildfire; and
landslides. The proposed development is predicted to have at most low vulnerabilities to the various
climate hazards and therefore the effect of climate change on the proposed development is
considered direct, long-term, negative and imperceptible, which is considered overall not significant
in EIA terms with regard to the construction and operational phase.
Overall, no significant impacts to climate are predicted during the construction or operational phases
of the proposed development.
4.11.2.3 Cumulative Impact
With respect to the requirement for a cumulative assessment, the TII Guidance PE-ENV-01104 states
that “for GHG Assessment is the global climate and impacts on the receptor from a project are not
geographically constrained, the normal approach for cumulative assessment in EIA is not considered
applicable.”
However, by presenting the GHG impact of a project in the context of its alignment to Ireland’s
trajectory of net zero and any sectoral carbon budgets, this assessment will demonstrate the potential
for the project to affect Ireland’s ability to meet its national carbon reduction target. Therefore, the
assessment approach is considered to be inherently cumulative.
The cumulative impact of the proposed development in relation to GHG emissions is considered
direct, long-term and positive, which is overall significant in EIA terms.
4.11.3 Mitigation
4.11.3.1 Incorporated Design
A number of mitigation measures have been incorporated into the design of the proposed
development. This includes meeting the requirements set out in the Part L guidelines. The proposed
development is targeting a building energy ratio (BER) of A3. Additionally, other measures have also
been incorporated into the design of the proposed development to mitigate the impacts of future
climate change.
4.11.3.2 Construction Phases
A number of best practice mitigation measures are proposed for the construction phase of the
proposed development to ensure that impacts to climate are minimised. These mitigation measures
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and waste recycling opportunities and identifying and implementing lower carbon material choices
and quantities during detailed design.
4.11.3.3 Operational Phase
The proposed development will use organic waste as the feedstock, thereby diverting this waste
stream from landfill or composting. This represents an emissions avoidance which is beneficial to
climate.
4.11.4 Residual Impact Assessment
The proposed development has been designed to reduce the impact on climate through GHG
emissions offsets by using waste as feedstock to produce biogas (the development will provide over
12% of the 2025 CAP25 biomethane production target), thereby avoiding methane emissions, and
displacement of fossil methane by biomethane, thereby avoiding use of the more carbon intensive
natural gas, as well as digestate biofertiliser and biogenic CO2. The proposed development is therefore
not only fully in line with Ireland’s trajectory to net zero by 2050, the National Biomethane Strategy,
the National Planning Framework and the Northern & Western Regional Assembly Regional Spatial
And Economic Strategy 2020-2032, but is also an integral part of achieving CAP25 targets. The effect
of the proposed development in relation to GHG emissions is considered direct, long-term, positive
and slight, which is overall not significant in EIA terms.
Design mitigation has been considered when assessing the vulnerability of the development to future
climate change. In relation to climate change vulnerability, it has been assessed that there are no
significant risks to the proposed development as a result of climate change. The residual effect of
climate change on the proposed development is considered direct, long-term, negative and
imperceptible, which is overall not significant in EIA terms.
The revised soil-management approach increases construction vehicle-kilometres/transport
emissions relative to local reuse but does not itself create additional loads. Provided all mitigation
measures as set out in this chapter are implemented, the overall predicted effect of the proposed
development on GHG emissions is direct, positive, long-term and slight, while the effect of climate
change risk on the proposed development is direct, negative, long-term and imperceptible.
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4.12 Cultural Heritage – Archaeology & Built Heritage
The assessment of Cultural Heritage – Archaeology & Built Heritage is contained within Chapter 15 of
Volume II.
4.12.1 Existing Environment
The proposed development is situated within a drumlin landscape with evidence for activity in the
vicinity dating from prehistory to the post-medieval period. The proposed renewable biogas plant site
occupies a greenfield area under pasture, set within a working agricultural landscape. The proposed
linear grid connection follows the road corridor of the existing R189 and R188 public roads. The
proposed grid connection, while not part of the proposed development, is assessed as functionally
related infrastructure.
4.12.1.1 Fieldwork
4.12.1.1.1 Site Inspections
Site inspections were carried out on 10th July 2024, 10th October 2025 and 8th April 2026, including
inspections of the proposed renewable biogas plant site, a windshield survey of the proposed linear
gas grid connection. These were carried out in the context of an assessment of the cultural heritage
potential of study area, taking cognisance of the potential implications of the development on the
surviving cultural heritage landscape. It also considered the setting of relevant designated cultural
heritage assets in the vicinity.
4.12.1.1.2 Geophysical Survey
A detailed gradiometer survey was carried out within the proposed renewable biogas plant site
between 17th-19th September 2024 (Licence No. 24R0379; Leigh 2024). The survey area included both
fields within the proposed plant site: Area A to the west and Area B to the east. The main aim of the
survey was to identify any geophysical responses that may represent the remains of unknown
archaeology within the application area, with results indicating no definite sites of archaeological
significance. Two isolated responses of potential archaeological interest were identified in Area A,
interpreted as reflecting either recent activity or archaeological pits comprising of burnt material or
archaeological burnt spreads. The other tentative responses identified related to a possible former
field division and possible ditches that may be the result of more recent activity.
4.12.1.1.3 Test Excavation
An initial phase of archaeological test excavation was carried out within the proposed renewable
biogas plant site between 30th June – 1st July 2025 under Licence No. 24E01224. The test excavation
sought to confirm the archaeological nature of the anomalies identified on the geophysical survey and
to confirm their nature and extent, in so far as was possible, within the constraints of the proposed
development boundary. A total of 9 test trenches were excavated, the majority of which targeted
anomalies identified in the geophysical survey. Only one of the anomalies proved to be archaeological
in nature (Archaeological Area (AA) 1) and was the only area of archaeological interest that was
identified during the course of testing. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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Licensed excavation and preservation by record of AA1 prior to the relevant works, together with
archaeological monitoring of topsoil stripping and initial ground disturbance across the remainder of
the plant site.
11 additional test trenches were excavated within the proposed development site under Licence No.
26E0370 on 29th June 2026. These trenches extend into areas that did not record any anomalies in the
geophysical survey in order to verify the robustness of the results. Previously excavated Trench 6
(Licence No. 24E1224; Coen, 2024) was extended in order to reveal the full extent of the burnt mound
(AA1).
4.12.1.2 Archaeological Heritage
4.12.1.2.1 Renewable Biogas Plant Site
There are no recorded monuments with the proposed development and only five within a 1km radius.
The nearest of these is a large oval hilltop enclosure (RMP MO022-008), situated on top of a drumlin
to the south-west of the proposed renewable biogas plant site; the enclosing bank is c. 185m from the
proposed development at its closest point. Whether this is a prehistoric hilltop enclosure or an
example of a large early medieval ringfort is undetermined.
Another indicator of prehistoric (possibly Bronze Age) activity is the stone row recorded c. 900m to
the north (RMP MO017-068). This is the only recorded monument within the study area that is located
roughly north/north-east of the proposed renewable biogas plant site, therefore, theoretically within
sight of the hilltop enclosure with the potential for an interrupted view.
A visual impact assessment (VIA) was undertaken in relation to the hilltop enclosure (RMP MO022-
008) and the stone row (RMP MO017-068), supported by site visits to both monuments and by
photomontages prepared by the Landscape and Visual specialists. The proposed development will be
considerable in scale and will be visible from the hilltop enclosure. The monument has panoramic
views, though not extensive, a result of the more enclosed and constrained visual context of the
drumlin landscape. The visual change at the monument will restrict / alter views in one direction only,
to the north-east of the site.
The VIA demonstrated that there is currently no intervisibility between the hilltop enclosure and the
stone row. It also indicated that the proposed development will be effectively screened from the stone
row by the existing field boundary.
4.12.1.2.2 Linear Gas Grid Connection
The proposed grid connection route traverses the Zone of Notification (ZoN) of a recorded ringfort
(RMP No. MO022-009) in Maghernakelly townland. The proposed route follows the existing R189
public road at this location. The curve in the road to the east (the existing R189) suggests that it was
originally routed to avoid the monument. The outer fosse and bank along the east side of the ringfort
have been removed to create a wider verge. There is no record of associated archaeological
investigations and it appears that the work (and partial removal of the monument) was carried out
without archaeological supervision. Depending on the depth of the ground disturbance during the
works, it is possible that there could be intact remains of the monument surviving below present
surface level within the verge. There is also the potential for associated archaeological material to be RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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found within the road carriageway, beneath the existing surface. Archaeological testing (Licence No.
06E1132) to the south of the monument, directly across the road from it, produced no archaeological
material.
4.12.1.3 Architectural Heritage
4.12.1.3.1 Renewable Biogas Plant Site
There are no protected structures or NIAH Building Survey sites within the proposed development
site.
The proposed renewable biogas plant site is located within the northern extent of the former New
Park estate (NIAH Garden Survey Ref. 1211). These were the grounds of New Park House, an 18th /
19th century house (not a designated architectural heritage receptor; see BH2 below). Both house and
estate are modest in size. The portion of the former grounds in which the proposed development will
be located is now in use as agricultural land and is no longer legible as a part of a 19th century estate.
No landscape design features are present in this area. The estate boundary remains defined only by
virtue of the roads that delineate the north-eastern and western perimeters, with no surviving
boundary walls or mature trees to mark it. Historic map analysis indicates that this part of the estate
was most likely used for agriculture in the past, as today. Landscape design was focused to the south
of the house (in the opposite direction to the proposed development), in the form of a parkland with
specimen trees and an observatory (only the shape of the parkland now survives). The house was
oriented southwards, with a designed view over the parkland. The area containing the proposed
biogas plant site does not contribute to the setting of the house and this part of the former estate is
considered to be have negligible significance.
4.12.1.3.2 Linear Gas Grid Connection
There is one protected structure adjacent the proposed linear gas grid connection route, the Dartrey
Estate Wall (RPS 414; NIAH 41402226). Located along the south-eastern and eastern boundary of the
existing R188 public road, the demesne wall marks the extent of the former Dawson Grove and
Fairfield Demesne estates which were amalgamated into the Dartrey Demesne in the 19 th century.
The walls feature coursed rubble stone construction with vertical rubble stone copings and were built
c. 1800.
In addition to the Dartrey Estate Wall (RPS 414; NIAH 41402226), the NIAH records one further
structure of architectural heritage interest within the proposed route. This is the entrance gateway
(NIAH 41402216; Figure 15.23) to the former Dartrey House estate. It comprises entrance gates and
associated flanking walls that were constructed c. 1860.
Finally, the NIAH Garden Survey also records the historic garden / designed landscape of the former
Dartrey House estate (NIAH Garden Survey Ref. 1218) within the assessment corridor of the linear gas
grid connection.
4.12.1.4 Undesignated Cultural Heritage
4.12.1.4.1 Renewable Biogas Plant Site
Three features of undesignated cultural heritage were identified within and adjacent to the proposed
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• An Orange Hall (BH1) was identified on historic mapping to the north of the proposed
renewable biogas plant site. It first appears on the 25-inch OS map published in 1908.
• New Park House (BH2) lies to the south of the proposed development and was also identified
on historic mapping. It is first depicted on the First Edition six-inch OS map, published in 1834.
It is likely of 18th or 19th century construction and remains in use as a private residence.
• A burnt spread (AA1) was identified as a result of the archaeological test excavation (Licence
No. 24E01224). It comprised a spread of burnt mound material and a possible associated
trough, both of which were truncated by a modern linear ditch. The extent of these possible
fulacht fia remains were confirmed during a second phase of testing (Licence No. 26E0370).
No additional features were identified.
4.12.1.4.2 Linear Gas Grid Connection
The proposed grid connection traverses an undesignated bridge, BH3, known as ‘Laganeers Bridge’.
The bridge is first named on the 25-inch OS map published in 1908, indicating that the bridge is likely
of late 19th- or early 20th century construction. The bridge is considered to be of local cultural heritage
and historic interest.
4.12.2 Impact Assessment
4.12.2.1 Do Nothing Scenario
4.12.2.1.1 Renewable Biogas Plant Site
Under the ‘Do Nothing’ scenario, no industrial-scale anaerobic digestion (AD) facility would be
developed at the proposed renewable biogas plant site. The existing use of the land under pasture
and its landscape and visual character would remain largely unchanged. There would be no impact on
the below-ground archaeology identified within the site (truncated fulacht fia remains) and no visual
impact on the recorded hilltop enclosure (RMP No. MO022-008).
4.12.2.1.2 Linear Gas Grid Connection
Under the ‘Do Nothing’ scenario, no proposed linear gas grid connection would be installed along the
R188 and R189 public roads. As a result, there would be no ground disturbance along the road corridor
and no impact on any potential below-ground archaeological remains that may survive within its
footprint at the ZoN for the recorded ringfort (RMP No. MO022-009).
4.12.2.2 Construction Phase
4.12.2.2.1 Renewable Biogas Plant Site
There are no recorded monuments within the redline boundary of the proposed renewable biogas
plant site. The closest recorded monument is a large oval hilltop enclosure (RMP No. MO022-008),
located c. 185m to the south-west. No direct physical impacts are anticipated based on the current
layout of the biogas plant site, but temporary / short-term impacts on the setting and visual amenity
of the monument may occur.
Geophysical survey (Licence No. 24R0379) followed by targeted archaeological testing (Licence
24E01224) identified the truncated remains of a fulacht fia (AA1) within the redline boundary of the
proposed renewable biogas plant site. Fulachta fia, sometimes known as burnt mounds, are relatively RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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common prehistoric archaeological sites and this example is assigned a medium sensitivity rating.
Substantial groundworks will occur during the construction of the proposed development and the
magnitude of impact on this archaeological feature is very high. This would result in a significant,
negative, long-term impact on the archaeological feature.
There are also two undesignated features of cultural heritage interest located in the vicinity of the
proposed renewable biogas plant site, an Orange Hall (BH1) and New Park House (BH2). There will be
no potential direct impacts on BH1 or BH2.
4.12.2.2.2 Linear Gas Grid Connection
The proposed linear gas grid connection intersects the ZoN for a recorded ringfort (RMP MO022-009).
While the monument lies outside of the existing road carriageway, there is a potential for the survival
of below-ground associated archaeological remains within this ZoN along the public road. There is
precedent for the preservation of archaeological remains to survive beneath road surfaces, despite
modern interventions. Groundworks associated with the proposed linear gas grid connection would
result in a potential impact (direct, negative and long-term) on any archaeological remains that may
be present subsurface.
The proposed linear gas grid connection traverses an undesignated bridge known as Laganeer’s Bridge
(BH3). This is an area that has been previously disturbed, and it is deemed that there is a very limited
potential to reveal any buried features of a historic interest and that the impact is negligible. There
would be no impact due to nature of the works, as cable trenching would take place within the modern
road surface and will not require disturbance to parapet walls.
4.12.2.3 Operational Phase
4.12.2.3.1 Renewable Biogas Plant Site
There will be a change to the views and setting of the recorded hilltop enclosure (RMP MO022-008).
This negative visual change will restrict / alter views in one direction, to the north-east of the
monument only. The effect of the introduction of the proposed biogas plant site on the setting of the
recorded monument from a cultural heritage perspective would therefore be of a medium magnitude,
in which there is a noticeable change in the receiving environment in one direction but this change
does not alter the integrity of the monument. Taking into account the medium sensitivity of the
monument, this is considered to be an overall moderate impact. The construction of the proposed
renewable biogas plant will result in a moderate indirect negative impact on the setting and visual
amenity of the recorded monument during the operational phase.
There will be no impact on the setting of the stone row (RMP MO017-068), with the proposed
development not visible from the monument.
The assessment demonstrated that there is no intervisibility between the hilltop enclosure and the
stone row. Visual relationships between recorded monuments in the surrounding landscape would
not be interrupted or otherwise affected by the proposed development.
The part of the former New Park estate (NIAH Garden Survey 1211) in which the proposed
development will be located is now in use as agricultural land and is no longer legible as a part of a
19th century estate. No boundary walls, mature trees or landscape design features are present in this RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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area. The estate boundary remains defined only by virtue of the roads that delineate the north-eastern
and western perimeters. The proposed development will not be visible from New Park House (BH2),
the historic setting of which is focused on the grounds south of the house. The house was oriented to
take advantage of the views southwards, which once included an area of parkland (now pasture)
directly in front of the house. The area containing the proposed development does not contribute to
the significance of the house or its setting, and given the absence of any landscape design features or
historic landscape character in this part of the estate, it is considered to have a low sensitivity rating.
The magnitude of impact on the former estate would be medium, resulting in a slight direct negative
impact on the New Park estate during the operational phase.
All other cultural heritage issues will be resolved by mitigation during the pre-construction phase or
construction phase, in advance of the operational phase.
4.12.2.3.2 Linear Gas Grid Connection
All cultural heritage issues will be resolved by mitigation during the pre-construction phase or
construction phase, in advance of the operational phase. No operational phase impacts were
identified for the proposed linear gas grid connection.
4.12.2.4 Cumulative Impact
4.12.2.4.1 Renewable Biogas Plant Site
All permitted and proposed developments within 1km have been assessed in conjunction with the
proposed development. These include one-off and small-scale residential developments as well as
small-scale agricultural / industrial developments. No cumulative impacts have been identified in
relation to archaeological, architectural or cultural heritage.
4.12.2.4.2 Linear Gas Grid Connection
All permitted and proposed developments within 50m have been assessed in conjunction with the
proposed development. These include one-off and small-scale residential developments as well as
small- to large-scale agricultural / industrial developments. No cumulative impacts have been
identified in relation to archaeological, architectural or cultural heritage.
4.12.3 Mitigation
4.12.3.1 Incorporated Design
4.12.3.1.1 Renewable Biogas Plant Site
Excess material excavated from within the site will be repurposed as landscaping fill material, which
shall afford the possibility of developing screening berms on the southeastern and northwestern
portions of the proposed development site. These berms will be subject to a comprehensive suite of
planting to further integrate the proposed development within the landscape and minimise visual
impact. While this will help to screen the proposed development, particularly from the east and south,
minimising any visual impact in these directions, it will not be an effective mitigation in relation to the
hilltop enclosure (RMP MO022-008). RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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The structures associated with the plant have been designed to echo the style of local agricultural
buildings, with colours to assist them to blend into the surrounding landscape and skyline. The field
boundary between the Renewable Biogas Plant Site and the hilltop enclosure will be left in place.
Although this will not screen the upper sections of the Renewable Biogas Plant structures, along with
the berms and structure design, it will assist in minimising the visual distraction of a modern industrial
plant in the north-eastern view from the hilltop enclosure (RMP MO022-008).
4.12.3.1.2 Linear Gas Grid Connection
There have been no mitigation measures relating to cultural heritage incorporated into the design of
the proposed grid connection.
4.12.3.2 Construction Phase
4.12.3.2.1 Renewable Biogas Plant Site
The proposed development layout precludes the preservation in situ of the archaeological remains
identified during testing. Given the fragile and partially truncated nature of the surviving
archaeological deposits, and their relatively small scale, it is considered an appropriate mitigation that
the remains of fulacht fia AA1 will be preserved by record, i.e. subject to full archaeological excavation.
While the additional archaeological testing confirmed the extents of the fulacht fia remains, the
proposed excavation cutting to resolve this area of archaeological interest will measure approximately
10m x 10m around the known archaeological features to ensure that any additional features that may
be present are identified and fully recorded.
The archaeological excavation will be carried out in advance of construction, under licence to the
National Monuments Service (NMS) (Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage
(DHLGH)), subject to their approval of a licence application and method statement. Licences can take
up to 4 weeks to procure.
4.12.3.2.2 Linear Gas Grid Connection
As part of the proposed linear gas grid connection intersects the ZoN for a recorded monument (RMP
MO022-009, ringfort), a Section 12 notification of works will be required. Under Section 12 of the 1994
amendment of the National Monuments Act, all monuments listed on the 'Record of Monuments and
Places' (RMP) are given a minimum level of protection in the form of a requirement to give two
months’ notice in writing to the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage of intention to
interfere. In this case, a description of the proposed works will have to be forwarded to the Minister
in order to demonstrate that the monument in question will remain unaffected by the said works.
It is recommended that archaeological monitoring under licence to the NMS (DHLGH) be carried out
where groundworks occur within the ZoN for the recorded ringfort (RMP MO022-009).
4.12.3.3 Operational Phase
4.12.3.3.1 Renewable Biogas Plant Site
Potential impact on the setting of the recorded hilltop enclosure (RMP MO022-008) has been
addressed as much as is possible through the incorporated design mitigation. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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While the line of the estate boundaries of this part of the former New Park estate are being retained,
the potential slight impact on the former estate cannot otherwise be mitigated.
All cultural heritage issues will be resolved by mitigation during the pre-construction phase or
construction phase, in advance of the operational phase. As a result, no mitigation is required at
operational stage.
4.12.3.3.2 Linear Gas Grid Connection
All cultural heritage issues will be resolved by mitigation during the pre-construction phase or
construction phase, in advance of the operational phase. As a result, no mitigation is required at
operational stage.
4.12.4 Residual Impact Assessment
4.12.4.1.1 Construction Phase
Following the implementation of the above-stated construction phase mitigation, no significant
residual effects are predicted to occur in relation to archaeological heritage.
Any archaeological features present that require excavation will thus be permanently removed, in
whole or in part from the landscape. However, the archaeological excavation of the sites or parts
thereof that lie within the proposed site, will involve full recording of all archaeological features, finds
and deposits. The results of the excavations will add to the body of knowledge, resulting in a reduction
of the likely effect on the known archaeological site from significant to moderate.
4.12.4.1.2 Operational Phase
Following the implementation of the incorporated design mitigation, an indirect moderate negative
residual impact is predicted to remain on the visual amenity and setting of the recorded hilltop
enclosure (RMP MO022-008). The proposed development is considerable in scale and while the
associated landscaping and individual structure design have been devised to minimise and soften the
appearance of the biogas plant, the construction of the plant will still restrict / alter views to the north-
east of the recorded monument during the operational phase. Thus, given the nature of the proposed
development, the proposed landscape design would not reduce the impact as assessed, with the
predicted residual effect remaining at moderate (an acceptable level in EIAR terms). It should be noted
that this effect does not represent a loss of, or direct physical impact on, the monument and its
principal archaeological characteristics, and the greater part of its wider setting will remain
unchanged.
The slight negative impact on the New Park estate is predicted to remain for the duration of the
operational phase.
It should be noted that setting impacts will cease upon decommissioning and hence there is a high
degree of recoverability. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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4.12.5 Monitoring
All archaeological and cultural heritage issues will be resolved at the pre-construction and
construction stages of the proposed project. This will include licensed archaeological monitoring of
topsoil stripping activity in the proposed biogas plant site.
It is also recommended that similar archaeological monitoring protocols are implemented for the
linear gas grid connection, particularly where ground works intersect the ZoN of a recorded ringfort
(RMP MO022-009 ).
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4.13 Major Accidents and Disasters
An assessment of the impacts of major accidents and disasters on a proposed Renewable Biogas Plant
development, Drum, Co. Monaghan is included in Chapter 16 of Volume II.
Alongside the legislation, policy, and guidance outlined in Chapter 1, the following relevant legislation,
policy, and guidance has informed the preparation of this chapter:
• EPA ‘Guidelines on the Information to be contained in Environmental Impact Assessment
Reports’ (2022);
• EIAR Directive 2014/52/EU, which requires consideration of “the expected significant adverse
effects of the project on the environment deriving from the vulnerability of the project to risks
of major accidents and/or natural disasters relevant to the project consented.”
• Health and Safety Authority (HSA) Guidance on Technical Land-Use Planning Advice, for
planning authorities and COMAH establishment operators (2023);
• Chemicals Act (Control of Major Accident Hazards Involving Dangerous Substances)
Regulations 2015;
• HSA Guide to the COMAH Regulations 2015 (S.I. No. 209 of 2015);
• Building Regulations (Part A Amendment) Regulations 2012 (as amended) (SI No. 138 of 2012)
– Structural Safety;
• Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulations 2013 (as amended) (hereafter
referred to as the Safety, Health and Welfare (Construction) Regulations) (S.I. No. 291 of
2013); and
• A Framework for Major Emergency Management. Guidance Document 10 (DECLG 2015).
4.13.1 Existing Environment
The Proposed Development site is located in an area which is predominantly rural in nature, with a
dispersed residential population. The nearest residence is located approximately 35m to the south
(landowner dwelling).
The proposed development site is not located within the consultation zones of any Seveso
establishment; therefore, there are no constraints to the proposed development at this location from
nearby Seveso establishments.
The proposed development will be a sub-COMAH facility. The provisions of the COMAH Regulations
2015 do not apply to the proposed development.
4.13.2 Impact Assessment
4.13.2.1 Do Nothing Scenario
Under a ‘do-nothing’ scenario, if the proposed development does not proceed, there will be no change
to the risk of a major accident and/or disaster at the site.
4.13.2.2 Construction Phase
Construction and maintenance activities may require welding which can be carried out using
compressed gases such as acetylene. There is also the potential for an accidental release of concrete RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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into the soil, or surface water during the construction of the proposed Biogas Plant. All activities
involving hazardous materials will follow strict safety protocols, and the likelihood of major accidents
affecting the public is extremely low. There are no likely impacts on the project or to off-site receptors
during the construction phase in relation to major accidents and disasters.
4.13.2.3 Operational Phase
Small quantities of formic will be present on-site during the operation of the proposed development.
Formic acid has environmental hazards. Due to the small quantities of formic acid involved, it is not
considered credible that a spill of formic acid would meet the criteria for a Major Accident.
There is the potential for a loss of containment of biogas from storage or pipework due to mechanical
failure of pipework, connections or fittings, such as corrosion or fatigue, or as a consequence of
accidental damage to equipment and pipework such as a dropped object, an impact with vehicles or
machinery. Additionally, Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) LPG will be stored in 3 No. 4-tonne tanks at the
proposed development. There is the potential for a loss of containment of LPG from storage or
pipework due to mechanical failure of pipework, connections or fittings, such as corrosion or fatigue,
or as a consequence of accidental damage to equipment and pipework such as a dropped object, an
impact with vehicles or machinery. If either biogas or LPG were to be released and ignited, the
potential consequences of a biogas release include fire and explosion.
All activities involving hazardous materials will follow strict safety protocols, and the likelihood of
major accidents affecting the public is extremely low. The impact and likelihood of these scenarios has
been assessed and it is concluded that there are no likely impacts to off-site receptors, as a result of
the proposed development, during the operational phase in relation to major accidents and disasters.
4.13.3 Mitigation
The assessment did not identify any likely significant effects arising from the proposed development.
The mitigation measures outlined are proportionate to the risks assessed and are either inherent in
the design, already integrated into operational controls, or appropriately addressed through
established emergency planning procedures.
4.13.4 Residual Impact Assessment
The residual effects are the final predicted or intended effects which occur after the proposed
mitigation measures have been implemented. As no likely significant effects were identified, no
additional mitigation measures are proposed. Therefore, residual effects are not relevant for this
assessment.
4.13.5 Cumulative Impact
Cumulative effects relate to the potential effects of the proposed development in combination of the
potential effects of other developments (referred to as ‘cumulative developments’) within the
surrounding area.
During both the construction and operational phases, no likely impacts to off-site receptors are
predicted. Therefore, from a Major Accidents and Disasters perspective, cumulative effects are RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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considered imperceptible and neutral. No significant cumulative impacts are anticipated in relation to
other developments in the vicinity.
4.13.6 Monitoring
The berm fronting the public road will be constructed and verified in line with standard geotechnical
engineering practices. Material quality, compaction, and slope stability will be inspected and signed
off by a qualified engineer prior to handover.
Ongoing monitoring of hazardous materials and safety systems will be carried out as part of the site’s
Major Accident Prevention Policy and Emergency Response Plan. This ensures the continued
effectiveness of controls.
The detailed monitoring results, including emissions and plant performance, will be reported annually
to the EPA in line with regulatory requirements.
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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4.14 Description of Significant Interactions
Likely significant interactions are set out in Chapter 18 of the EIAR. In practice many impacts have
slight or subtle interactions with other disciplines. During the preparation of this EIAR each of the
specialist consultants engaged with each other with respect to the likely interactions between effects
predicted as a result of the proposed development. Mitigation measures to alleviate identified likely
significant effects address identified interactions. This approach meets with the requirements of Part
X of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended, and Part 10, and schedules 5, 6 and 7 of
the Planning and Development Regulations 2001, as amended.
Interactions between Environmental Topics
Environmental effects do not necessarily occur in isolation. An effect on one aspect of the
environment may influence another, and the same receptor may experience more than one type of
effect simultaneously. The EIAR therefore considers the main interactions between the environmental
topics assessed for the Proposed Project, comprising the Renewable Biogas Plant and the associated
Linear Gas Grid Connection.
Construction Phase
During construction, the main interactions concern traffic, noise, dust, land and soils, water, and
biodiversity. Construction traffic and works may temporarily affect local residents through additional
vehicle movements, noise, dust and changes to the visual environment. Works associated with the
installation of the Linear Gas Grid Connection will also result in temporary activity along the public
road corridor. Certain construction activities at the Renewable Biogas Plant may result in elevated
noise levels at the nearest noise-sensitive locations. These effects will be temporary and managed
through the construction traffic, noise, dust, and environmental management measures identified in
the EIAR.
There are also important links between land and soils, water and biodiversity. Excavation, earthworks,
and soil handling could, if not appropriately controlled, result in sediment or pollutants reaching
surface water or groundwater, which could, in turn, affect ecological receptors. Construction controls
will therefore include measures for soil handling, surface water management, pollution prevention
and protection of habitats and fauna.
Following the implementation of these measures, no significant additional effects are predicted to
arise from these interactions.
Operational Phase
During operation, the main interactions relate to the Renewable Biogas Plant. Nearby residents may
experience its long-term visual presence, along with operational traffic, noise, air emissions, and
odour. These effects have been assessed both individually and having regard to the fact that more
than one may be experienced by the same receptor.
Operational noise is predicted to remain within the adopted assessment criteria, while detailed
modelling confirms that process emissions and odour will not result in significant effects. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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Operational interactions between water, biodiversity and climate have also been considered. The
Renewable Biogas Plant incorporates measures for the collection, attenuation and treatment of
surface water, containment of fuels and chemicals, and reuse of water where practicable. The
drainage system also includes an allowance for increased rainfall associated with future climate
change. These measures reduce the potential for effects on surface water, groundwater and
downstream ecological receptors.
Interactions with cultural heritage have also been carefully considered. During construction, the
remains of a truncated fulacht fia will be fully archaeologically excavated and recorded in advance of
works, ensuring that the archaeological information associated with the feature is preserved by
record. During operation, the Renewable Biogas Plant will result in a change to views from the nearby
recorded hilltop enclosure, but this change is limited to the north-easterly direction only. The
assessment confirms that the development will not interrupt any existing visual relationships between
the enclosure and other recorded monuments in the surrounding landscape. In particular, there is no
existing intervisibility between the hilltop enclosure and the nearby stone row. The integrity of the
monument will therefore remain unaffected, although a moderate effect on its setting has been
identified.
The Renewable Biogas Plant will not be visible from New Park House and will not affect its historic
setting, which is focused southwards away from the development.
The EIAR also considers potential interactions arising from Major Accidents and Disasters, including
fire, explosion, accidental loss of containment, flooding and ground instability. The Renewable Biogas
Plant incorporates containment systems, safety controls, monitoring and emergency response
procedures. Taking these measures into account, no significant environmental effects from Major
Accidents and Disasters are likely.
Overall, the assessment concludes that, while a number of environmental effects may interact or be
experienced by the same receptor, these interactions do not give rise to any additional significant
environmental effects beyond those already identified and assessed in the individual technical
chapters of the EIAR.
The interactions identified during the construction and operational phases of the Proposed Project
are summarised in the table below. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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Table 7 Summary of Interactions between Environmental Factors
Key: C = Construction Phase; O = Operational Phase; C/O = Construction and Operational Phases; — = No material interaction identified.
Environmental
Factor
P&HH L&V Traffic Built
Services
Waste Land &
Soils
Water Biodiversity Noise Air
Quality
Climate Cultural
Heritage
MA&D
Population &
Human Health
— C/O C/O C C/O C/O C/O — C/O C/O — — C/O
Landscape &
Visual
— — — — — — C/O — — — O —
Traffic &
Transport
— C C/O C C C C/O C/O C/O — —
Built Services
— — — C/O — C C — — —
Waste — C — C/O — — C/O — —
Land & Soils
— C/O C/O — C C/O C C
Water — C/O — C C/O — C/O
Biodiversity — C/O C/O — — C/O
Noise &
Vibration
— — — — —
Air Quality — C/O — —
Climate
— — —
Cultural
Heritage
— —
MA&D —
Note: The table identifies the phases during which the key interactions considered in Chapter 18 arise. The identification of an in teraction does not
indicate that a significant effect will occur. The nature and significance of each interaction, including releva nt mitigation and residual effects, are described
in Sections 18.2 to 18.14.
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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5 Summary of Mitigation & Monitoring Measures
A key objective of the Environmental Impact Assessment process is to identify likely significant
environmental impacts at the pre-consent stage and where necessary to propose measures to
mitigate or ameliorate such impacts. Monitoring Measures must be incorporated in the Development
Consent for a Project if the Project is likely to have significant adverse effects Article 8a of the EIA
Directive, requires that monitoring measures proposed (if appropriate) should be included in the EIA
Report.
This section summarises the proposed mitigation and monitoring measures set out in Chapters 4 to
16 of Volume II of this EIAR.
It is proposed that the appointed contractor will develop a site-specific Construction and
Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) prior to works commencing on-site. All the mitigation and
monitoring measures proposed within the individual specialists’ assessments will be incorporated into
the plan.
The Linear Gas Grid Connection does not form part of the Proposed Development for which planning
permission is sought and will be delivered separately by Gas Networks Ireland under the applicable
statutory consenting process. The Applicant does not have control over the detailed design,
construction or operation of the Linear Gas Grid Connection and cannot commit Gas Networks Ireland
to particular mitigation or monitoring measures. Accordingly, where mitigation or monitoring
measures are identified in this EIAR in respect of the Linear Gas Grid Connection, they are presented
as recommendations for implementation by Gas Networks Ireland, having regard to GNI's applicable
statutory, technical, environmental, construction and operational management requirements.
Table 8 Incorporated Design Mitigation
Aspect Mitigation
Population &
Human Health
(Ch.04)
▪ Plant uses best available technologies and systems with planned preventative maintenance to
minimise equipment failure.
▪ Operated by skilled and trained personnel qualified to manage a biogas facility.
▪ Feedstock delivered in covered HGVs and handled within enclosed buildings to contain odours.
▪ Main process building sealed; negative pressure maintained with ventilation and air extraction
systems.
▪ Extracted air treated via scrubbers, biofilters, and activated carbon filters; discharged through 40m
stack to ensure pollutant dispersion.
▪ Fast-acting roller doors and air curtains at HGV entry points reduce fugitive emissions and odour.
▪ Noise reduction via earth berms along southern and eastern boundaries, acoustic enclosures for
noise sources, and controlled HGV entry/exit times (07:00–19:00).
▪ Water protection via proper storage, containment, drainage systems, emergency procedures,
training, and spill kits; adherence to Land & Soil and Water & Hydrology mitigation.
▪ No significant impacts on human health from Water & Hydrology, Hydrogeology, Land, Soils, or
Geology; no further mitigation required.
▪ Visual/landscape design mitigates impacts through site regrading, berm formation, and colour
scheme; landscape mitigation measures detailed in Landscape Design Statement and Plan. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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Aspect Mitigation
Landscape &
Visual (Ch.05)
▪ Earthworks regrade site so primary structures sit within the landform, reducing height and visual
prominence.
▪ Berms (~6 m high) along southern and eastern boundaries provide screening from public roads
and receptors.
▪ Additional roadside berm along L-road frontage limits visibility and integrates development into
landscape.
▪ Facility layout clusters taller, complex structures to the west, away from public view; main process
building inside berm for coherence and reduced visual clutter.
▪ Grouping and consolidation of plant elements create a unified and legible built form.
▪ Colour scheme designed to blend with surrounding landscape: greens on lower sections, light
grey on upper sections to echo natural backdrop.
Material
Assets: Traffic
& Transport
(Ch.06)
▪ Site access via L2280 on northern road frontage; local road improvements proposed (widening
and realignment).
▪ Roadworks confined to public road or applicant-controlled lands.
▪ Occasional local feedstock traffic may arrive via L2280 from Drum, but mostly existing traffic will
divert into the site.
▪ Main HGV traffic will use adjoining regional road network for both construction and operational
phases.
▪ Internal pedestrian provision includes segregated circulation routes.
▪ High-quality, slip-resistant materials for crossings; dropped crossings designed with shallow
gradients for accessibility for all users.
Material
Assets: Built
Services
(Ch.07)
▪ Surface Water Management: Engineered drainage system with controlled collection and
attenuation; infrastructure sized to prevent exceedance flows, reduce sediment transport, and
protect downstream systems.
▪ Foul Water & Welfare: On-site welfare facilities during construction with sealed systems;
permanent foul water infrastructure segregates solid and liquid streams for safe containment and
off-site management.
▪ Water Supply: Process water sourced from reused liquid fractions, attenuated stormwater, and
on-site well; potable water connection included as back-up.
▪ Power Supply: Overhead lines re-routed around site; plant self-supplies via on-site CHP engines;
backup supply capacity confirmed; utility works conducted safely to minimise service interruptions.
▪ Telecommunications: Connections utilise existing adjacent networks.
▪ Gas Infrastructure: Gas grid connection follows GNI standards, established corridors, and
incorporates isolation, pressure control, and monitoring.
▪ Protection of Existing Services: Layout avoids unnecessary interaction with underground services;
all works comply with regulatory and utility-provider standards.
Material
Assets: Waste
(Ch.08)
▪ Excavated topsoil and subsoil to be reused on-site for landscaping berms and improving
agricultural land.
▪ Correct classification and segregation of soils to identify and manage any potentially contaminated
material.
▪ Visual inspection and environmental soil testing (hydrocarbons, metals, PAHs, standard soil
classification) to prevent negative impacts on workers, water, and soil.
Land & Soils
(Ch.09)
▪ Proper storage and containment of hazardous substances to prevent contamination.
▪ Engineered drainage systems designed in line with best practice, standards, and relevant
guidelines.
▪ Design measures embedded to minimise potential adverse effects on land, soils, and geology.
Water
(Hydrology &
▪ Proper storage and containment of hazardous substances to prevent contamination of water.
▪ Engineered drainage systems designed according to best practice, standards, and guidelines. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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Aspect Mitigation
Hydrogeology)
(Ch.10)
▪ Design measures embedded to minimise adverse effects on hydrogeology and hydrology.
Biodiversity
(Ch.11)
▪ Engineered stormwater drainage system designed to manage runoff and reduce
sediment/pollutant transport, following SuDS principles and CIRIA C753.
▪ Indoor delivery, handling, and processing of feedstock within sealed systems to prevent
environmental contamination.
▪ Impermeable surfaces and bunded containment systems for all tanks and pipework to prevent
spills (CIRIA C736 compliant).
▪ Stormwater reuse via AD process; discharge only when storage is full, with attenuation to match
greenfield runoff (1 in 100-year event + climate change allowance).
▪ Channel drains, swales, and oil-water interceptors incorporated to treat runoff before discharge or
reuse.
▪ Containment and recycling of all process effluent and wash-down water to AD process.
▪ Maintenance of ≥5 m ecological buffer zones around ditches to protect amphibian routes and
water quality.
▪ Multi-stage odour control system and backup gas flare to minimise odour and GHG emissions; all
combustion and stacks comply with EPA limits.
▪ Bunding and secondary containment of all raw material, fuel, fire water, and liquid waste tanks to
prevent leaks/spills.
▪ Road improvements at site entrance (widening, realignment) and wheel washes to reduce traffic
impacts, dust, and sediment transfer.
▪ Retention of existing hedgerows and treelines where possible; replacement planting where loss
occurs.
▪ Landscape mitigation includes native hedgerows, woodland species (high, low, understorey), and
wildflower planting to enhance biodiversity and integrate with local habitat.
Noise &
Vibration
(Ch.12)
▪ Earth berms along southern and eastern boundaries reduce noise emissions from the site.
▪ All site processes occur within the fully enclosed main process building.
▪ Fast-acting roller shutter doors at HGV entry points maintain buildings closed at all times.
▪ External plant and equipment designed to comply with operational noise limits.
Air Quality
(Ch.13)
▪ Feedstock delivery, handling and processing will take place within enclosed buildings maintained
under negative pressure. Extracted air will be treated through the odour control system prior to
discharge through the 40 m stack. Fast-acting doors and air curtains will minimise fugitive
emissions during vehicle access. Process emission points will be designed and operated in
accordance with the applicable IE Licence requirements.
Climate
(Ch.14)
▪ Adequate attenuation and drainage designed to manage increased rainfall and potential future
flooding.
▪ Compliance with Part L 2022 (Buildings Other Than Dwellings) and targeting minimum A3 BER.
▪ Energy hierarchy “Be Mean, Be Lean, Be Green” applied:
o Be Mean: High-performance U-values, improved air tightness, reduced thermal bridging.
o Be Lean: Low-energy plant, natural ventilation, daylight use, energy-efficient LED lighting.
o Be Green: Renewable technologies including CHP, heat pumps, and solar PV.
▪ Provision of electric vehicle charging and bicycle parking.
▪ Incorporation of water efficiency measures, e.g., low consumption sanitary fittings.
Cultural
Heritage
(Ch.15)
▪ Excavated material reused to form screening berms on southeastern and northwestern site areas.
▪ Berms planted to integrate development into the landscape and reduce visual impact, especially
from east and south.
▪ Plant structures designed to reflect local agricultural building styles and colours to blend with the
surrounding landscape. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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Aspect Mitigation
▪ Existing field boundary between the site and hilltop enclosure retained to minimise visual
distraction from the recorded monument.
Major
Accidents &
Disasters (Ch.
16)
▪ The Renewable Biogas Plant incorporates process-safety and containment measures including
bunded storage, leak detection, pressure control and shutdown systems, appropriate separation
and containment of hazardous materials and emergency response arrangements. The detailed
design will be subject to applicable process safety studies and statutory requirements. The Linear
Gas Grid Connection will be designed and operated in accordance with GNI's applicable safety,
integrity and monitoring requirements.
Table 9 Construction Phase Mitigation Measures
Aspect Mitigation
Population &
Human Health
(Ch.04)
▪ Biogas Plant: Implementation of mitigation measures as set out in the specialist chapters
▪ Gas Grid: Implementation of mitigation measures as set out in the specialist chapters
Landscape &
Visual (Ch.05)
▪ Adherence to the CEMP, with a qualified CEMP Coordinator appointed for the construction
duration.
▪ Implementation of good site management: perimeter hoarding, controlled site lighting, tidy site,
proper storage/compound placement, dust minimisation, clean public areas.
▪ Full tree and hedgerow protection following BS5837, with measures implemented per the
Arboricultural Report.
▪ Embedded mitigation by design at Biogas Plant Site:
o Site regraded to set primary structures into landform, reducing height and visual prominence.
o 6 m high berm created along southern and eastern boundaries for screening.
o Additional roadside berm introduced.
o Layout clusters taller elements to the west, away from receptors.
o Main building positioned internally to reduce clutter and create coherent massing.
o Colour scheme using local landscape tones (greens at lower levels, light grey upper sections).
▪ Landscape mitigation proposals:
o Minimise views of structures and assimilate development into the landscape.
o Reinforce landscape character and existing features.
o Improve biodiversity by diversifying vegetation.
o Shape berms to reflect natural drumlin topography.
o Use mature planting to accelerate early screening.
o Replant / reinforce boundaries where vegetation removal occurs.
▪ Hedgerow measures:
o Western boundary hedgerow retained and bolstered (under-planting, whip planting, advanced
nursery stock).
o New ‘Type 2’ hedgerows planted on southern boundary (3–4m maintained height).
▪ Native woodland planting introduced around boundaries and internal locations, using mixed
canopy layers and local provenance stock.
▪ Native wildflower seeding along northern boundary near entrance to soften views.
▪ Linear Gas Grid Connection: Construction and reinstatement will be undertaken by Gas Networks
Ireland in accordance with its applicable construction and environmental management
requirements. Disturbed road verges and vegetation will be appropriately reinstated following
completion of the works. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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Aspect Mitigation
Material
Assets: Traffic
& Transport
(Ch.06)
▪ General Construction Traffic: Construction Traffic Management Plan (CTMP) & ‘Construction
Environmental Management Plan’ (CEMP)
Material
Assets: Built
Services
(Ch.07)
▪ Implementation of all construction-phase mitigation in Section 7.9.2, including coordination with
service providers, verification of underground services, utility surveys (GPR & electromagnetic),
exclusion zones, strict quality control for pipe laying, and full adherence to the CEMP at the
Biogas Plant.
▪ Linear Gas Grid Connection: Protection of existing utilities and services will be undertaken by Gas
Networks Ireland in accordance with its applicable technical, construction and utility-coordination
requirements, including service verification, safe excavation and appropriate quality-control
procedures.
Material
Assets: Waste
(Ch.08)
▪ Biogas Plant – Litter Pollution: The Contractor will be required to fully implement the RWMP
throughout the duration of the proposed construction phase.
▪ Biogas Plant – Unlicensed Waste Collection (Illegal Dumping): All waste leaving the site will be
recorded and copies of relevant documentation maintained.
▪ Biogas Plant – Insufficient Waste Facilities: All waste leaving the site will be recorded and copies
of relevant documentation maintained.
▪ Biogas Plant – Lack of Waste Classification: All waste material leaving site will be correctly
classified and segregation prior to removal where possible.
▪ Gas Grid: Construction resources and waste arising from the pipeline works will be managed by
Gas Networks Ireland in accordance with its applicable construction, environmental and waste
management procedures and relevant waste legislation.
Land & Soils
(Ch.09)
▪ Renewable Biogas Plant:
o Excavation, stockpiling and soil handling will be managed in accordance with the CEMP,
SSWMP and RWMP.
o Excavated material will be subject to visual inspection and, where required to establish its
classification or suitability for a proposed receiving facility, appropriate environmental testing
will be undertaken.
o Appropriate controls will be implemented for refuelling, concrete works, storage of hazardous
materials, sediment control and accidental spills.
o Suitable excavated material will be reused within the site where practicable and surplus
material will be transferred by suitably authorised contractors to appropriately authorised
receiving facilities.
▪ Linear Gas Grid Connection:
o Soil excavation, handling, reinstatement, pollution prevention and management of excavated
material will be undertaken by Gas Networks Ireland in accordance with its applicable
construction and environmental management procedures.
Water
(Hydrology &
Hydrogeology)
(Ch.10)
▪ Renewable Biogas Plant:
o Implementation of the CEMP and Soil and Surface Water Management Plan.
o Appropriate sediment and surface-water controls, including silt-control measures and
management of runoff from disturbed areas.
o Controlled refuelling and storage of fuels and chemicals, provision of spill-response equipment
and appropriate management of concrete works.
o Appropriate management, treatment and/or disposal of water arising from excavations.
▪ Linear Gas Grid Connection:
o Gas Networks Ireland will implement appropriate pollution-prevention, excavation-water,
sediment control and spill-response measures in accordance with its applicable construction RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
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Aspect Mitigation
and environmental management requirements. Specific water-protection measures will apply
in the vicinity of the three identified watercourse crossings.
Biodiversity
(Ch.11)
▪ All mitigation from CEMP and specialist chapters (Air Quality, Landscape, Land & Soils, Noise &
Vibrations, Water) adopted for ecological protection.
▪ Outline CEMP and Soil & Surface Water Management Plan set out measures for managing
construction impacts on biodiversity.
▪ Flora and Fauna:
o Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) oversees hedgerow clearance, ensures mitigation, and
supervises replanting.
o Hedgerows enhanced via supplementary native planting; rotational cutting to maintain habitat
diversity; minimum height of 2 m.
o Root protection zones retained to maintain bat foraging and commuting potential.
o Hedgerows and trees to be removed are cut at minimum 30 cm above ground.
o Pre-clearance checks will be undertaken where required prior to vegetation removal. If an
active bird nest is identified, works capable of affecting the nest will cease and appropriate
exclusion and/or timing measures will be established by the ECoW. If a potential or confirmed
bat roost is identified, the relevant works will cease pending assessment by a suitably qualified
bat ecologist. Any requirement for licensing will be determined in accordance with the
applicable statutory requirements and, where appropriate, in consultation with NPWS.
o Ecological protection, biosecurity and reinstatement measures associated with the Linear Gas
Grid Connection will be implemented by Gas Networks Ireland in accordance with its
applicable construction and environmental management procedures.
Noise &
Vibration
(Ch.12)
▪ Biogas Plant: Construction noise impacts on surrounding NSLs controlled using best practice
measures from BS 5228-1.
▪ Gas Grid: Construction noise impacts during pipeline works controlled using recommended best
practice measures from BS 5228-1 and GNI's applicable construction and environmental
management requirements.
Air Quality
(Ch.13)
▪ Control of construction dust (from construction activities and trackout) using measures in line with
IAQM Guidance (2024) and Section 13.11.1.
Climate
(Ch.14)
▪ Greenhouse Gas Emissions:
o Appoint competent contractor to undertake waste audits, identify materials for reuse/recycling.
o Reuse materials on-site where possible.
o Prevent vehicle engine idling.
o Maintain and inspect plant and machinery regularly.
o Minimise material waste through proper timing and ordering.
o Source materials locally where possible to reduce transport CO₂ emissions.
▪ Vulnerability to Future Climate Change:
o Contractor to mitigate effects of extreme rainfall/flooding, winds/storms, temperature extremes,
fog, lightning, hail via site risk assessments and method statements.
o All construction materials accompanied by certified datasheets specifying limiting operating
temperatures.
Cultural
Heritage
(Ch.15)
▪ Biogas Plant:
o Direct negative effect on AA1: Preservation by record through licensed archaeological
excavation.
o Following completion of the licensed archaeological excavation of AA1, topsoil stripping and
other initial ground disturbance across the remainder of the Renewable Biogas Plant site will
be subject to archaeological monitoring by a suitably qualified archaeologist under the RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 120
Aspect Mitigation
appropriate licence. Should previously unidentified archaeological material be encountered,
works in the affected area will cease pending assessment and consultation with the National
Monuments Service.
▪ Gas Grid:
o Potential negative effect on below-ground archaeology within Zone of Notification (ZoN) of
RMP MO022-009, ringfort: Section 12 Notification of Works and licensed archaeological
monitoring of ground disturbance.
Major
Accidents &
Disasters
(Ch.16)
▪ Renewable Biogas Plant:
o Construction will be undertaken in accordance with the CEMP, Health and Safety Plan and
applicable statutory safety requirements.
o Appropriate procedures will apply to the storage and use of compressed gas cylinders, fuels
and other potentially hazardous materials and to works during extreme weather.
▪ Linear Gas Grid Connection:
o Pipeline construction, tie-in and commissioning activities will be undertaken by Gas Networks
Ireland in accordance with its applicable construction, commissioning, safety and emergency-
response requirements.
Table 10 Operational Phase Mitigation Measures
Aspect Mitigation
Population &
Human Health
(Ch.04)
▪ Biogas Plant (Landscape and Visual Impacts): Implementation of mitigation measures as set out
in the specialist chapters
▪ Biogas Plant (Air Quality): Implementation of mitigation measures as set out in the specialist
chapter
▪ Biogas Plant (Traffic Generation): Implementation of mitigation measures as set out in the
specialist chapter
▪ Biogas Plant (Noise Emissions): Implementation of mitigation measures as set out in the specialist
chapters
Landscape &
Visual (Ch.05)
▪ Landscape planting (hedgerows, woodland, wildflower areas) allowed to mature, providing long-
term screening and integration into landscape character.
▪ Boundary planting maintains a 3–4 m height; woodland thicket reaches 8–10 m to break up
massing.
▪ Linear Gas Grid Connection: Following construction, affected road surfaces, verges and other
disturbed areas will be reinstated by Gas Networks Ireland in accordance with its applicable
reinstatement requirements.
Material
Assets: Traffic
& Transport
(Ch.06)
▪ Operational Traffic: Driver Induction Training
▪ Operational Traffic: Site Records
Material
Assets: Built
Services
(Ch.07)
▪ Implementation of SuDS-based stormwater drainage design and maintenance/upgrade of on-site
built services at the Biogas Plant in accordance with service provider requirements.
▪ No operational-phase mitigation measures required for the Gas Grid connection infrastructure
(maintained by GNI). RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 121
Aspect Mitigation
Material
Assets: Waste
(Ch.08)
▪ Biogas Plant – Unlicensed Waste Collection (Illegal Dumping): The Operator will ensure that all
waste leaving the Site will be transported by suitable permitted contractors and taken to suitably
registered, permitted or licensed facilities.
▪ Biogas Plant – Poor Waste Segregation: The Operator will ensure that all waste materials will be
stored in colour coded bins or other suitable receptacles in designated, easily accessible
locations. Bins will be clearly identified with the approved waste type to ensure there is no cross
contamination of waste materials.
▪ Biogas Plant – Litter Pollution: The Operator will ensure that all waste collected from the Site of
the proposed Development will be reused, recycled or recovered, where possible, with the
exception of those waste streams where appropriate facilities are c urrently not available.
▪ Gas Grid: N/A
Land & Soils
(Ch.09)
▪ Biogas Plant – Accidental Spills, Leaks and Discharges: Regular inspection of surface water
drainage system including hydrobrake, separators / interceptors, and foul sewers is recommended
ensure no accidental discharge occurs to underlying geology. Full adherence to and
implementation of the OEMP.
▪ Biogas Plant – Increased Sediment Run Off from Hardstanding Areas carrying Sediment and
Pollutants into the Soil and Bedrock Off-Site: Regular inspection of surface water drainage system
including hydrobrake, separators / interceptors, and foul sewers is recommended ensure no
accidental discharge occurs to underlying geology. Full adherence to and implementation of the
OEMP.
▪ Biogas Plant – Future Maintenance Works on Underground Services and Infrastructure involving
Soil Excavations and Soil Disturbance and Disposal: Regular inspection of surface water drainage
system including hydrobrake, separators / interceptors, and foul sewers is recommended ensure
no accidental discharge occurs to underlying geology. Full adherence to and implementation of
the OEMP.
▪ Gas Grid – No impact: Not Required
Water
(Hydrology &
Hydrogeology)
(Ch.10)
▪ Renewable Biogas Plant:
o Implementation and maintenance of the permanent surface water management system,
including rainwater harvesting, attenuation, flow controls, proprietary surface -water treatment
measures and hydrocarbon interception.
o Inspection and maintenance of bunding, drainage and containment infrastructure.
o Supplementary groundwater abstraction will be operated within the sustainable yield
established through pump testing.
▪ Linear Gas Grid Connection:
o Following construction and reinstatement, no specific operational hydrology or hydrogeology
mitigation is required.
Biodiversity
(Ch.11)
▪ Lighting: Anti-glare, IDA-approved lighting; timeclock controls turn off lights after 23:00; reduces
impact on bats; bat boxes provided.
▪ Noise: Potentially noisy equipment housed within buildings or acoustic containers; noise
engineered to minimise impacts on fauna.
▪ Surface water & process effluent:
o Impermeable site surfaces; bunds and containment for all tanks and pipework.
o Process effluent and wash-down water contained and recycled to AD process to prevent
spillages to drains or nearby streams.
▪ SuDS measures: Rainwater harvesting, attenuation storage, oil/water separators, and silt traps to
manage surface water runoff.
▪ Foul drainage: Treated in on-site package treatment plant and recirculated to AD process. RECEIVED: 28/08/2026
August 2026 | 122
Aspect Mitigation
▪ Regulatory compliance: IE License from EPA ensures strict environmental operation
requirements.
Noise &
Vibration
(Ch.12)
▪ Biogas Plant:
o Plant noise limits implemented.
o Site vehicle movements restricted during daytime.
▪ Gas Grid: : Following construction and reinstatement, the buried pipeline will not comprise an
active operational noise or vibration source and no specific operational mitigation is required.
Air Quality
(Ch.13)
▪ Operational phase process emissions controlled under IE licence conditions
Climate
(Ch.14)
▪ Greenhouse Gas Emissions:
o Incorporate design mitigation relating to operational energy usage.
▪ Vulnerability to Future Climate Change:
o Incorporated design mitigation for drainage and building design.
Cultural
Heritage
(Ch.15)
▪ Biogas Plant:
o RMP MO022-008, hilltop enclosure: Incorporated design mitigation including screening berms
and planting.
Major
Accidents &
Disasters
(Ch.16)
▪ Renewable Biogas Plant:
o Operation in accordance with applicable process-safety, containment, inspection, leak-
detection and emergency-response procedures.
o Detailed process-safety studies, including HAZOP as appropriate, will inform the final design
and operating procedures.
o A Firewater Retention Risk Assessment will be completed in accordance with EPA guidance
and any required retention measures will be incorporated prior to operation.
o Emergency response arrangements will address credible loss-of-containment, fire, explosion,
severe-weather and other relevant scenarios.
▪ Linear Gas Grid Connection:
o The pipeline will be operated and monitored by Gas Networks Ireland in accordance with its
applicable safety, integrity, leak-detection, inspection and emergency-response requirements.
RECEIVED: 28/08/2026