A helicopter pad at a private residence in Castlebar, Co Mayo, developed without planning permission, has been referred to An Bord Pleanála.
Castlebar town council had issued a warning notice to Mr Pat Staunton, the owner of the helicopter and helipad at Lisnakirka, Milebush, some months ago, when the authority became aware of the development, situated about a mile from Castlebar town centre.
A local farmer, with cattle in an adjoining field, had complained to the authority about the impact of the helipad on his cattle and horses. The farmer is concerned that the noise of the helicopter landing and taking off is causing his animals to stampede and break through fencing.
Mayo county secretary Mr John Condon confirmed three months ago that an enforcement order was about to be imposed on the helicopter owner because of his failure to seek planning permission for the helipad.
However, that enforcement order has not been served to date, and instead the county secretary said yesterday the matter has been referred to An Bord Pleanála. "The helipad owner contends that no planning permission is required for his development, but the town council does not agree," Mr Condon explained. "The matter has been referred to An Bord Pleanála for a decision as to whether or not planning is required.
"If An Bord Pleanála rules that planning is needed then the owner will have to seek planning permission and if he doesn't do that then legal proceedings against him will begin by the local authority."
A spokesperson for An Bord Pleanála said yesterday that the appeal is invalid due to an incorrect fee submitted with the application. The spokesperson said the local authority will be notified in writing shortly.