Asphalt plant decision appealed to An Bord Pleanála

A Donegal County Council decision to grant permission for a controversial asphalt plant in Inishowen has been appealed to An Bord Pleanála (ABP).

Earlier this month, the local authority gave the go ahead for the application by Moyle Plant Limited to build the tar producing facility at Gortnaskea, Burnfoot. The directors of the company are Anthony and Bridie Cassidy, Buncrana, according to documents lodged with the application.

A total of 154 submissions were made from 129 third parties which expressed concern about the potential for harmful and toxic emissions, air pollution, unpleasant odours, dust and the increased numbers of heavy goods vehicles on local roads. Concerns were also expressed about the possible impact on the nearby Inch wildlife reserve, potential noise pollution, the impact on local wildlife including geese, red squirrels, and buzzards.

In responses to the submissions, the council said it believes the only risk from substances that would be used at the plant would be to people working in close contact with materials.

An Bord Pleanála is to make a decision on the case by the end of September.