Work gets underway on Curryfree windfarm

The wind farm received planning permission in May 2008. Construction is due to begin on August 2 and is expected to continue until August 2011. Once complete, the wind farm will produce clean, renewable electricity equivalent to the needs of an estimated 8,000 homes, every year.

The wind farm has been developed and will be built by RES on behalf of wind farm owner ESB Wind Development, with a local civil engineering contractor undertaking the main civil works.

Civil engineering works will start with the construction of the site entrance and preparation of access tracks, which will allow the turbines to be erected and serviced. This will require a short road closure in August on the Bigwood road at the site entrance, lasting approximately one week.

A control building and substation compound will be built on the wind farm to carry the electricity generated to the local grid via an overhead cable to the substation north of Newbuildings. The foundations for the wind turbines will be prepared between September 2010 and January 2011. The wind turbines will be delivered in parts and assembled on site.

The delivery of the blades, towers and nacelles is expected to begin in March and last for approximately eight weeks. The turbines will be transported from Lisahally docks on special heavy goods vehicles with a police escort.

In order to facilitate the delivery of the blades, towers and nacelles, work will be required to upgrade the Forge Road and sections of the Bigwood Road. This work will take place between September and December 2010 and traffic management measures will be in place to ensure the safety of all road users.

Site Manager John Boyce commented: “Disruption will be kept to a minimum during construction of the wind farm. Traffic is being carefully managed to minimise congestion with the installation of 21 passing bays along the Bigwood Road. We very much appreciate the patience of local residents and regret any inconvenience that might occur.

“Safety is our number one priority and we ask local residents not to drive into the site entrance or stop along the road to view the construction. RES works to the highest quality, environmental and safety standards when undertaking any construction project. Should people see anything that concerns them, we would urge them to let us know immediately on 07789964577.”