2561717
of the back filling of a former quarry void using Article 27 by-product material in order to achieve a final landform that integrates with the surrounding topography; all associated ancillary facilities, including, a wheelwash, small porta cabin office/canteen and chemical toilet and all within an application area of 5.6 Ha. The applicant is seeking a 20-year permission for infilling and associated activities, with an additional 2 years for final site restoration
Core Refusal Reason
The Planning Authority cannot be satisfied that the proposed development would not result in adverse impacts on the receiving environment, specifically groundwater quality and nearby Natura 2000 sites, due to the lack of a Stage 2 Natura Impact Statement and adequate mitigation measures.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The Planning Authority determined that significant impacts on habitats within Natura 2000 sites, particularly the Lough Corrib SAC, cannot be ruled out due to the site's close proximity and the lack of a protective overburden layer to shield vulnerable groundwater.
- The submitted Appropriate Assessment Screening report was deemed unsatisfactory as it failed to provide sufficient evidence or mitigation measures to ensure that the 20-year infilling operation would not result in significant changes to groundwater quality within the karst system.
- A Stage 2 Natura Impact Statement (NIS) and a detailed Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) are required to address the potential for environmental pollution and to demonstrate that the integrity of European sites will be maintained.