The Client sought to secure a 10-year planning permission for the construction of a 4MW Solar PV Energy Development on a c.10.65 hectare site in Rathleague, approximately 2.5km to the south of Portlaoise Town Centre, Co. Laois. The development comprises the provision of Solar Photovoltaic (PV) panels on ground mounted frames/support structures and includes associated underground cabling and ducting, inverter/transformer stations, HV cabin, communications and storage structures, substations, perimeter (stock proof) security fencing, CCTV security cameras, site access road, landscaping and all associated ancillary site development works.

Tom Phillips + Associates (TPA) provided strategic planning advice to the Client and Project Team and led all aspects of the planning application process, including the Planning and Environmental Report and project management/peer-review of expert inputs on Ecology, Flood Risk Assessment and Drainage, Archaeology, Traffic and Access including Outline Construction Traffic Management Plan (CTMP), Appropriate Assessment Screening, EIS Screening, Glint and Glare and Landscape and Visual Impact. Laois County Council granted planning permission for the development on Thursday 23rd February 2017 following a Request for Further Information on 29th November 2016. An Bord Pleanála issued a Final Grant of Permission in July 2017.