It’s feared the jobs of up to 300 people in West Clare have been put in jeopardy, following a decision to not permit coastal protection works at the Trump’s Doonbeg golf resort.
An Bord Pleanala says it isn’t satisfied that the development would not result in adverse effects on the dune habitat.
But the decision has been described by some in the area as “disgraceful”, as Clare FM’s Fiona Cahill reports.
Clare County Council had given these works the green light in December 2017.
It was proposed that two structures would be built, totalling 850 metres in length, made of reinforced sheet piling. This would in turn be covered in sand and cobbles to shield them from view.
The application was met with a high level of objections, and it was further appealed to An Bord Pleanala.
Their long-delayed decision finally came yesterday, and saw the project rejected by the board.
It’s not satisfied that the proposed development would not result in adverse effects on the physical structure, functionality, and sediment supply of the dune habitat within the Carrowmore Dunes Special Area of Conservation.
PRO of the Doughmore Coastal Protection Group, Liam Ryan has described the decision as both “crazy” and “disgraceful”, saying it will have a devastating impact on the local economy.
A spokesperson for Trump International Golf Links Doonbeg has told Clare FM that they are “very disappointed with the decision” and will now “consider their options” – that could include seeking a judicial review of the decision.
A 40 million euro expansion of the facility, which was granted permission last year could now come into question, with the company saying at the time that it would be difficult to proceed without the completion of the coastal protection works.
Local Businesswoman and activist Rita McInerney says the decision could lead to more businesses pulling investment from the area.
The Friends of the Irish Environment group were among the objectors, and have welcomed the decision to reject the application for planning permission.
Director Tony Lowes has defended their efforts to stop the development in its tracks.
