Over 300 locals had objected to the Fahy Beg wind farm, prompting Clare County Council to refuse planning permission to RWE Renewables Ireland Ltd in May 2023. The proposed 38.4 MW wind farm is to be located 1.5km from Bridgetown and 3.5km from O'Briensbridge.

Despite the council’s decision – baked on concerns including potential negative visual impact and property devaluation – An Bord Pleanála overturned the refusal in March 2024, granting permission on appeal.

In response, the Fahybeg Windfarm Opposition Group and Sean Conway brought High Court proceedings, claiming the development contravened the County Development Plan by requiring tree felling in Ballymoloney Woods.

However, Mr Justice Richard Humphreys dismissed the challenge, ruling that the opposition took an “excessively literalist and absolutist” view of planning objectives. He noted that only 0.4 hectares (0.2%) of long-established woodland would be removed, and there is no outright ban on tree removal in the Development Plan.

The judge also rejected claims that the wind farm would cause a drop in local property values, stating there was no conclusive evidence to support this assertion.

As part of the project, RWE Renewables will establish a Community Benefit Fund, pledging up to €3.2 million over 15 years to support the local area.

No order on legal costs was made.