2461079
The construction of an asphalt plant and associated works within the existing permitted quarry extraction area (permitted under Planning Reference No: 05/7023 and An Board Pleanála Reference No. 13.QC.2096), including: • 1 no. Asphalt plant • 1 no. electrical substation • 1 no. standby generator • 1 no. Storage shed (1500 sqm gross floor space) and 8 no. Storage bays • 1 no. gas storage unit, and compound • 1 no. settlement tank • Retaining wall within an application area of 3.4 hectares. A Natura Impact Statement (NIS) accompanies the planning application.
Core Refusal Reason
The application was refused due to concerns regarding environmental impact on Natura 2000 sites, traffic safety on the local road network, and potential impacts on archaeological heritage.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed development failed to adequately demonstrate that it would not adversely affect the integrity of protected European sites, despite the submission of a Natura Impact Statement.
- The local road infrastructure was deemed insufficient to safely accommodate the increased volume of heavy goods vehicle (HGV) traffic associated with the asphalt plant operations.
- Concerns raised by the Council Archaeologist and Heritage Officer regarding the impact on the area's cultural and archaeological heritage were not sufficiently addressed.