Radiation concerns 'ignored' as Benbradagh windfarm recommended for approval

A planning application for a windfarm on Benbradagh mountain in Dungiven is scheduled for determination by the Causeway Coast and Glens Council tomorrow (Wednesday) with recommendation for approval.

Campaigners and members of the commuity say despite having raised concerns to the council planning committee and Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) on May 30 regarding contamination and radiation (Chernobyl legacy and other), they do not appear to have been addressed or considered in the final Habitat Regulations Assessment (HRA), thus rendering the HRA incomplete.

Locals say there is concern that the release of radiation and contamination from the construction and operation of the proposed development will have impacts on the environment and human health.

With the Sperrins area widely recognised as having significantly higher cancer rates than the rest of the province, campaigners say the community’s fears 'are not unfounded'.

“The application site flows into the River Roe and Tributaries SAC, which in turn flows into Lough Foyle - shared international waters between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland - creating transboundary impacts that require notification and consultation.  This does not seem to have taken place,” a spokesperson for 'Save Benbradagh' said.

“Environmental impacts are required to be fully assessed prior to approval, as mandated by law. As the 'competent authority' the Council is legally responsible for ensuring robustness and completeness of the HRA and full compliance with environmental legislation; furthermore, it has a duty to safeguard the health, wellbeing and human rights of its community. The Climate Change Act does not override or lessen these obligations. Transparency, accountability, and proper oversight must be upheld throughout the planning process.”

Nearly 1,300 objections to the proposed development have already submitted and there is 'widespread cross-community opposition' according to the spokesperson.

“The Roe Valley is becoming increasingly encircled with wind turbines - in addition to what is currently visible, there are three consented windfarms that have not yet been built. Local communities feel they are being thrown under the bus - and that the cumulative impact and collective loss of local landmarks and culture, heritage, sense of place and local identity has not been properly assessed.”

One local businessman said: “The area is being turned into one big wind factory with no thought for local communities or the young families growing up here. It has to stop, local people have had enough.”

Benbradagh, in the Sperrins AONB, is one of the most iconic mountains in the North, visible for miles within the Roe Valley and along the new A6. It forms the backdrop to Dungiven, and is of deep cultural significance to the local community.

Campaigners say the proposed development of four industrial-scale, 150m (500 feet) high turbines would breach the distinct ridgeline that is protected under planning policy and would be highly visible throughout the area. They believe this breach would open the floodgates for further encroachment and development along the ridgeline.

“This is not just about turbines - it’s about safeguarding our landscape, protecting public health, and preserving cultural heritage for future generations. What happens to Benbradagh will set a precedent for the entire Sperrins region,” the spokesperson continued.

“Even the Council’s own planning team has acknowledged the community’s concerns regarding the significant visual impact of the proposal. Yet despite this, the development is being recommended for approval.

“Residents are now urged to act. Contact members of the Planning Committee directly, as well as local councillors and MLAs, and demand that this proposal be rejected. Elected representatives must be reminded that they serve the people - not private developers.

“Phone calls, emails, and social media posts to elected officials can make a real difference. Tag your representatives publicly and ask them where they stand. Encourage others to do the same. Community voices must be amplified - and heard.

“The wider community of Dungiven and the Roe Valley is called upon to unite and speak out before Wednesday’s meeting. This is the final opportunity to influence the outcome. Every message, every call, and every objection counts.

“Benbradagh is more than a mountain - it is a symbol of identity, history, and belonging. Let’s protect it together.”