Plans for a South Roscommon windfarm being considered

A major wind farm is earmarked for the south Roscommon area, the Westmeath Independent can reveal this week. Cavan-based IWCM Ltd is currently carrying out site investigations and assessment work on behalf of GaleTech Energy Ltd in the Brideswell and Taughmaconnell areas to gauge their suitability for the construction of 47 new wind 2.5 megawatt turbines, access roads and associated works. Letters have been sent to a number of local people to inform them about the project assessment being undertaken in the local area as part of an Environmental Impact Statement, a necessary part of any future planning application. Townlands being examined include Cam, Ballyglass, Milltown, Skyvalley, Tavanagh, Cloonacaltry and Tubbermcloughlin among others. The proposed windfarm development would be known as Seven Hills Windfarm. A spokesperson for IWCM confirmed that the scoping process was underway to assess the suitability of the area but declined to comment on specific details of the proposed development, save to say the company expect to complete public consultation in the local area in the coming weeks. IWCM is an Irish company formed specifically for the purpose of managing the design, development, construction and operation of wind energy projects in Ireland. One of its most high profile projects to date has been the development of the off-shore Arklow Wind Farm some years ago. The Cootehill-based firm is an independent company combining the development expertise of GaleTech Energy Ltd - one of Ireland"s leading wind energy development companies and PMSS - one of the UK"s leading wind energy consultancies.