An Bord Pleanála has refused planning permission for the development of a waste-recycling transfer station in Tuam, Co Galway, stating it would constitute an "unacceptable risk" of pollution to the nearby Clare River and to ground waters in the area.
Wheelie Environmental Refuse Service had been granted planning permission by Galway County Council in July of last year to develop a recycling, materials recovery facility, and construction and development (building rubble) waste facility at Tuam Business Park, Weir Road, Tuam, on the banks of the Clare River.
Objectors to the recycling facility criticised Galway County Council for granting planning permission for the development in the first place.
While the principle of recycling was accepted, objections were raised to the proposed development by businesses in the Tuam Business Park, as well as local residents, the Western Regional Fisheries Board, and the Tuam Clare and Corrib Anglers, primarily because of the proposed development's proximity to the Clare River.
An Bord Pleanála agreed with the objectors that the proposed change of use of the site and associated works would be prejudicial to public health and would constitute an unacceptable risk of pollution to the adjoining Clare River, an important angling river, and to ground waters in the area.
The river, the main tributary of Lough Corrib, is renowned for its fishing and angling amenities.