July 16, 2021
Eirgird have submitted for planning permission, link below for appeals.
https://www.pleanala.ie/en-ie/case/310798
A RURAL COMMUNITY VICTORY
24 November, 2020
The rural farming community of Knockraha, in East Cork, has campaigned against ERIGRID’s shortlisting of two potential sites in Knockraha, for over twelve months.
The Knockraha Environment Group spokesperson Marguerite Cremin commented:
“Our community are delighted to be informed that EIRGRID has officially announced that both Kilquane, site 12* and Knockraha, site 9b* are no longer their preferred site locations for a power convertor. Our community will be celebrating this week, knowing that its unspoilt environment has been saved from mass industrial creep.
Eddie Mackessy, Chairperson of Knockraha Area Community Association commented:
Our community, of which over 1,000 signed a submission are beyond thrilled. We will now strive to future proof the place we call home, and its heritage, against any such proposed plans.”
Mrs Marie O’Sullivan landowner commented:
“I’m both relieved and delighted that EIRGRID has decided their proposed Knockraha sites are no longer suitable for a power convertor. It’s been great to see our community come together to protect our countryside and we will continue to work hard to ensure its protected for future generations.”
The first initial EIRGRID proposed site, Kilquane, is by a forest plantation with a native woodland and an important water source stream, which backs onto neighbouring houses and farms. The area is also located near two historical sites, known as ‘The Rea’ and Sing Sing prison.
The second proposed site is by an existing sub-station in Knockraha, which is only 500m from 5 residential properties and 1km from 31 buildings. It’s also located near significant historical sites. Also worth noting that the power station has already doubled in size over a number of years.
Fact Sheet:
Campaign Group The Knockraha Environment Group Anti-Celtic Converter Campaign began in earnest in November 2019, following public consultations, along with support from the local community council.
Once consultations were completed, a campaign submission, which outlined local residents concerns around the Celtic Converter Development (on both sites in Knockraha (both 9 and 12B) was shared with EIRGRID.
1,000 Petition Signatures The local rural community of Knockraha signed over 1000 petition signatures, which was submitted in a meeting at EIRGRID HQ in Dublin on January 28th 2020.
Walking The Talk Between December 2019 and March 2020 – prior to COVID19 – three protest walks took place; which were collectively attended by over 300 local residents.
EIRGRID Celtic Interconnector proposed sites in Knockraha would have caused significant noise, disruption to nature, heritage sites, families and farming communities. All within an agricultural zone.
*Site 12 Kilquane Converter station option and cable route
*Site 9b Knockraha Converter station option – adjacent to existing station
Media
Significant number of media supported the protest following press release updates:
– Cork 103fm – Áine Kenny -interview with K.E.G. ( 8th Jan)
– Cork 96FM – PJ Coogan – interview with K.E.G. (21st Jan)
– The Irish Examiner – Sean O’Riordan – ‘Rural Community in Cork Protest over electricity convertor plans’ ( 28th Feb.)
– The Echo – Aine Kenny – ‘Knockraha petition against power Station’ (29th Jan)
– Sunday Business Post: – Danial Murray – ‘ Locals Petition against shortlisted sites proposal’ – (26th Jan)
– Echo live – Aine Kenny – ‘Cork residents take protest to Dublin against Celtic Interconnector project’ (28th Jan.)
– The Avondhu – ‘A Strong ‘No’ from Knockraha to Eirgrid Converter’.
– The Irish Examiner, Sean O’Riordan – Carrigtwohill still in the running for Eidgrid electric converter site (2nd June.)
EIRGRID visit Knockraha
Prior to the lockdown, members of the Knockraha Environment Group have met with Eirgrid on a site visit to Knockraha, which highlighted the heritage and significant historical significance of the area. It’s rich biodiversity and beauty of the area, unspoiled by industrial development.
The health aspect of this development was also a key factor in the discussions.
June 2nd 2020
The Knockraha Historical & Heritage Society launched ‘The Independence Way’ website, in partnership with K.E.G, which highlights the significant role the area played in the War of Independence. The website maps the significant sites in the area.