2260819
quarrying operations including the extraction of minerals (sand and gravel) over an area of 6.5ha to a final depth of 34m aod, mineral processing activities, the loading of materials, the transportation of materials from the quarry and all related ancillary works related to the same; the recovery of inert waste arising from construction and demolition (c and d) activity via the importation of inert material and the operation of an inert waste recycling facility; and the recovery of natural materials of clay, silt, sand, gravel or stone and which comes within the meaning of inert waste (resultant from the recycling and mineral processing proposed on-site) for the purposes of achieving a beneficial restoration for the site to agriculture. Planning permission is sought for a period of up to 10 years. The planning application is accompanied by an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) and a Natura Impact Statement (NIS). Area of site to which the application relates to 6.500 hectares
Core Planning Reasoning
The Inspector recommended granting permission because the development is a re-commencement of extraction at an established quarry site consistent with the Galway County Development Plan, and potential environmental impacts can be successfully managed through standard mitigation and a progressive restoration plan.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed development would not have unacceptable direct or indirect effects on the environment, and impacts on population and human health (noise, dust, traffic) can be mitigated to imperceptible levels through the limiting of operating hours and emission limits.
- Appropriate Assessment concluded that the project, individually or in combination with other plans, would not adversely affect the integrity of the Lough Corrib SAC or SPA, provided that key design features and mitigation measures for water quality are implemented.
- The development is in accordance with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area as it facilitates the recovery of construction waste and provides local employment while ensuring the ultimate return of the land to agricultural use.