Planning appeal decision on Mayo biogas plant delayed due to 'backlog'
There has been significant local opposition to the proposed biogas plant and hundreds of people attended a meeting in Swinford last July.
A decision by An Bord Pleanála on a proposed biogas plant near Swinford is expected by April or May after it has been delayed due to a backlog.
The developers behind a proposed biogas plant in Lislackagh have said they believe it will not harm the environment and it will create a sustainable East Mayo industry.
Pharmacist Gary Smyth, his brother former councillor Michael Smyth, Richard Kennedy and retired Mayo Gaelic footballer Pat Harte lodged two planning application.
The first application was refused in September 2022 and a second application was declined by local authority planners in August 2023 as it was deemed it may ‘endanger public safety’.
Substandard road infrastructure and the possible environmental impact on the area were two of the key factors outlined when the decision was made.
There was significant opposition in Swinford to the proposed plant and more than 400 local people submitted objections to Mayo County Council by the July 21, 2023, deadline highlighting a multitude of concerns.
A planning appeal was lodged with An Bord Pleanála last September by the developers and there had been a belief a decision would be confirmed early this year.
However, it is understood due to An Bord Pleanála backlog a decision is now expected by April or May.
The Swinford Biogas Concern Group stated last August they were pleased their concerns over "road safety, public health and protection of the environment, and in particular the River Moy catchment area, featured strongly in the decision".
