Michelle Hayes

The proposed €650 million project “would be contrary to current government policy, and in the absence of such policy support… would be contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area”, according to the planning body’s 11-page ruling.

The development, if permitted, would have consisted of a power plant, battery energy storage system, floating storage and regasification unit, jetty, onshore receiving facilities, above-ground installation and all ancillary structures/works.

The decision has been welcomed by Environmental Trust Ireland, headed by solicitor Michelle Hayes, which made a submission opposing the development in October 2021.

The organisation said the decision represented a “good day for the environment, for Ireland, for climate justice, for biodiversity, for reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, and for the communities in the United States and other countries where fracking occurs”.

An Bord Pleanála agreed with ETI’s submission that the planning application was premature in the context of the government’s energy review.

Ms Hayes said she was also encouraged by the concern expressed by An Bord Pleanála in its direction in relation to the absence of precise detail in a number of areas, including piling, potential acoustic impacts on dolphins, safe mooring in adverse weather conditions and associated environmental assessments.