21/6983
The development is similar to that previously granted under An Bord Pleanala reference number PL04.QD.0010 and will consist of the deepening of the existing quarry extraction area by 2 no. 15 metre benches from -20m OD to -50m OD, along with minor amendments to the permitted quarry layout (plan file ref. no’s: S/02/5476 and ABP Ref. PL04.203762 and ABP Ref. PL04.QD.0010) all within the existing permitted quarry footprint and the continued use of the existing water management system ( settlement pond / infiltration pond system, permitted under PL04.QD.0010) for the life of the proposed development, all within an application area of c. 12.6 hectares. An extraction capacity of up to 375,000 tonnes per annum is sought to provide the applicant with the ability to respond to demand for aggregates for large infrastructure projects in the region. Permission is sought for twenty years plus two years for final restoration (total duration 22 years). The planning application will be accompanied by an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR).
Core Planning Reasoning
The proposed development is considered to be in accordance with the provisions of the Cork County Development Plan 2022, is consistent with the site's long-established extractive use, and subject to 19 conditions, would not seriously injure the visual or residential amenities of the area or be prejudicial to public health.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed development accords with the zoning objectives for the Metropolitan Greenbelt and national policy regarding the safeguarding of mineral resources.
- Potential impacts regarding saltwater contamination, noise, vibration, and dust can be adequately managed through existing and proposed mitigation measures and adherence to a strict monitoring regime.
- The increase in extraction capacity will have a negligible impact on the local road network, and the proposed haulage routes are acceptable in terms of traffic safety and residential amenity.