Planning Application Lodged For Major Wind Farm Off Wicklow Coast

The scale of the Dublin Array development, combined with a separate, even bigger wind farm proposed for Codling Sandbank, off Bray Head, would result in a continuous wall of turbines stretching from the Kish Lighthouse to Wicklow Town.

The proposed development includes up to 50 wind turbines, each reaching a height of up to 309.6m, comparable to the height of the Eiffel Tower with a blade diameter of up to 278m. 

If approved, the wind farm will be constructed on fixed-bottom monopiles drilled into the seabed.

The Environmental Impact Assessment Report should outline potential impacts on Dublin Bay, its marine life, seabirds, and coastal habitats.

The closest turbines would be 8.9km from Howth’s Baily Lighthouse and Greystones Harbour, forming a backdrop to iconic locations such as Joyce’s Tower and Dalkey Island.

According to Blue Ireland: “Many members of the public remain unaware of this proposal and its potential impact. The community meeting aims to provide information and encourage discussion on an issue of major environmental and visual significance.”

Who is Blue Ireland?

Blue Ireland, a coalition of local environmental groups from around the coast, has been formed to raise awareness and safeguard Ireland’s marine ecosystems and coastal communities as the government aims to accelerate nearshore wind energy developments.

The group advocates for developments, such as the currently proposed Dublin Array wind farm, to be sited in environmentally appropriate locations, and in compliance with EU Environmental law.