Laois windfarm operator lodges five year plan for meteorological mast 

Planning permission for the operation of an 80 metre meteorological mast on Cullahill Mountain for a five year period has been sought from Laois County Council.  Cullahill Wind Farm Limited are seeking permission for the continued use of the mast which was installed in March 2025 at Gorteennahilla. The met mast will explore the suitability for potential renewable energy opportunities in the area.

 "In order to accurately record and predict long-term meteorological conditions and to ensure the optimal technical operation of a potential wind energy development at this location, it is proposed to operate the meteorological mast for a period of up  to 5-years," the application states.

 "Due to the variability of Irish weather conditions, it is considered that a period of 5-years is appropriate to allow for a comprehensive evaluation of meteorological conditions at this location." "The meteorological mast was installed as exempted development in accordance with Class 20A, Schedule 2, of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended)."

The Council is due to make a decision on the development by September 25 with submissions being accepted until September 4. 

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