Issues
| Wind turbine |
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Planning developments
Although Northern Ireland has a low population density
(124 people per km2 in 2001) there has been substantial
growth in recent years. This has led to greater demands
for facilities such as housing and transport.
Much of the countryside development is small-scale and
may seem insignificant, but the cumulative effects can be
substantial. Fens and lowland bogs are particularly susceptible
to damage from urban expansion, rural dwellings and road
network development. The planning system has to balance
the needs of the environment with the demand for economical
and efficient land development.
Wind farms and communication masts can affect peatland
habitats and have long-term effects on the stability of
the ecosystem. Such developments and their associated infrastructure
are being increasingly proposed on areas of blanket bog,
especially those at high altitude. The development of windfarms,
especially in the uplands, usually requires the development
of new roads. The physical and hydrological affects of such
developments can have a major impact on peatlands. The disturbance
may also affect Priority Species such as the hen
harrier.
