Green light for renewable energy project
Planning consent has been granted for the development of a micro-hydroelectric renewable energy system at a site on the Doagh River.
The project, on a privately owned site at Orpins Mill Road near Ballyclare, will involve the construction of a turbine house capable of producing 19kw of electricity.
During their monthly Planning and Consultation Committee meeting, councillors were informed that concerns had been raised about the potential damage to fish stocks in the river. However, members were assured that after “considerable discussion” with the Northern Ireland Environment Agency, Rivers Agency and other stakeholders it was agreed that provision of a “fish pass” would be included in the plan.