Frank Walsh
Kilkieran Lodge
Castletown
Carrick on Suir
Co .Kilkenny
To
Planning Department
Kilkenny County Council
County Hall
John Street
Kilkenny
Co Kilkenny R95A39T
Subject : Submission to Draft Kilkenny City.and County Draft Development Plan 2021 -2027
Dear Sir / Madam
Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the Draft Kilkenny City and County Draft Development Plan2021-2027
I am submitting my comments as a private concerned citizen and resident of the Lingaun Valley.
I am extremely concerned about the proposed changes to the Wind Energy Strategy in the Draft City and County Development Plan in South West Kilkenny Area adjoining the South East of County Tipperary .
This is an area renowned for its Ancient and Historic Sites from the recent History of the formation of the Irish State to the Cultural Gems of the Ancient Past dating back through 6000yrs .Many others will have detailed the unique and significant sites and the wonderful scenery the area and what it means to them .
I live next to the Kilkieran High Crosses and since I returned to my native Ireland in 1996 I have grown to know and respect the esteem in which this Valley is held by its residents on both sides of the Lingaun River in both Counties Kilkenny and Tipperary
It is important that both Counties Development Plans give protection to the cultural heritage of the Valley from inappropriate Development such as Wind Turbine Farms.
Upon my return I have been very aware of the rich heritage of the valley and have donated land to improve the access to the Kilkieran High Crosses , the Graveyard and the Holy Well .The local residents have built a stonewall round the graveyard and the pathway into it . I have planted 13000 mixed native trees adjoining my existing woodland with a view to creating a Neighboorwood facility enhancing the area fo the benefit of residents and visitors alike.
Prior to planting the trees an archeological survey was done which unearthed evidence of Bronze Age civilisation this will become a feature of the woodland as it matures . This would be seriously undermined as a facility and attraction should it be surrounded by a landscape of Wind turbines.
I point this out as evidence that we are concerned about the environment and will actively encourage eco friendly development and green energy projects that are in the right place . I cannot therefore support the proposed rezoning of the land as proposed in the draft development plan.
I would refer you also to the submission by the Lingaun Valley Tourism Company , to submission KKC 162-13 and to many more and excellent submissions by positive and caring people who have the best interests of the country in their hearts .
Frank Walsh .
Main opinion : I am opposed to the zoning of the Lingaun Valley and surrounding hills as either acceptable in principal or open for consideration, with regard to wind turbines
Main Request: To have the Lingaun Valley and surrounding hills zoned as unsuitable for wind energy
Frank Walsh