Magheramore wind farm approved after appeal

SINN Féin Councillor Kathleen McGurk has voiced her shock and disappointment following the Planning Appeals Commission’s (PAC) decision to overturn Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council’s refusal of a wind farm application near Banagher Glen.
The proposal, which seeks to construct six turbines at Magheramore Road near Banagher Glen, was initially rejected by the council due to its potential impact on the surrounding landscape, historical sites and the area's rich archaeological heritage.
The PAC held a hearing in April 2025 and took the decision to approve the wind farm from renewable energy company RES three months later.
Banagher Glen is a local beauty spot popular with locals and visitors for walking. The area is expected to be designated as an Area of Special Archaeological Interest (ASAI), and Banagher Old Church - a scheduled historic monument - is situated nearby.
Visual and environmental concerns, including proximity to the Banagher Dam and intrusion on scenic views across the Roe Valley, were also cited in opposition.
“I am shocked and disappointed by this decision,” said Cllr McGurk.
“The council listened to the concerns of local people and made the right call in refusing this application.
“I spoke directly at the planning committee to actively object and highlight the serious harm this development would cause to our historical and environmental assets - especially Banagher Glen and Banagher Old Church.”
Cllr McGurk also made a written submission to the PAC during the appeal process.
“I believed it was important to make clear, again, how completely inappropriate this site is for wind turbines,” she stated.
“This isn’t about opposing renewable energy - it’s about protecting the unique cultural and natural heritage of a unique location. I have always maintained that each renewable energy application needs to be assessed on its own merit.
“Banagher Glen is one of the oldest and most unspoiled ancient woodlands in Ireland, rich in biodiversity and steeped in cultural and archaeological heritage.
“It is very disappointing that the PAC did not give sufficient weight to these concerns and disregarded both Council's and Historic Environment Division's views.”
Cllr McGurk confirmed she has already spoken with the Council’s Head of Planning and intends to raise the issue formally at the August Planning Committee meeting.
“I’ll be seeking further legal advice to explore all options open to the council,” she concluded.
Jennifer McCorry, Project Manager for RES said: “Magheramore has been carefully designed to fit sensitively into the existing landscape and we warmly welcome the decision today, which unlocks much needed investment in the local economy.”
Magheramore Wind Farm has the potential to deliver a £1.6 - £2 million boost into the local economy during construction alone.