Uisce Eireann is attempting to press ahead with controversial plans for a wastewater treatment plant in West Clare.
The utility has lodged an appeal over a decision to refuse planning permission for a new facility in Kilkee.
The proposal was first submitted to the local authority in way back in January, for a new foul pumping station and sewerage treatment plant on a 4.5 hectare site in Foohagh, Kilkee.
Within a month, Clare County Council requested further information on the project after a large volume of local residents highlighted the potential for emanating odours that may impact the health and safety of visitors.
Ultimately, planning permission was refused in October, thanks in no small part to the 140 public submissions put forward, most of which objected to the development.
The greatest point of contention is the site’s proximity to Kilkee Cliff Walk, which is just 620 metres away.
But, Uisce Eireann insists the project is necessary to end the discharge of effluent into maritime areas and is hopeful that subject to a grant of permission, construction will be completed within 18 to 24 months.
When Clare County Council refused planning permission, it did so on the grounds that the bulk and scale of the plant was contrary to sustainable development.
It also highlighted operational concerns, stating that due to the significant seasonal variations in Kilkee’s population, it wasn’t demonstrated that the WWTP could manage this capacity.
