Anti-pylon activists in Co Donegal celebrated last night after An Bord Pleanala upheld an appeal against an ESB plan to construct a 110Kv power line through scenic areas of the county.
The Bord would not comment officially yesterday except to say that the judgment had been posted. But a copy of the ruling was circulating locally confirming that the Bord had upheld the appeal against the power line and a substation to be built at Arduns.
The proposed 110Kv line, to replace two existing 38Kv lines, was to start south of Glenties and loop around the north-west coastal towns through Dungloe and Gweedore.
The ruling states: "The Bord considers the primary need for improvement of the 110Kv electricity supply arises in Letterkenny, the largest town in the county and a centre considered to have significant growth prospects.
"The Bord is not satisfied having regard to the significant adverse environmental effects of the proposed development that the development as proposed constitutes the optimum solution to satisfy the electricity supply needs of the area."
The ruling says proposed development would be contrary to the planning and development of the area. An Bord Pleanala pointed out that the route crossed areas of scenic value, including areas with natural heritage designations.
It said the positive economic contribution of the development should offset any adverse effects. The ruling follows a hearing in Dungloe over 10 days last November and December.
The objectors, led by a group, Alternative to Pylons (ATP), were supported by An Taisce, mountaineering groups, the Independent TD Mr Tom Gildea and local musicians and artists. Letterkenny Chamber of Commerce, the County Council and the Minister for Tourism, Dr McDaid, all backed the plan.
Ms Deirdre Brennan of ATP said yesterday it was "a historic, landmark decision". She said they had beaten a corporate giant.
The ESB said it could not comment until notification had been received.