An Bord Pleanála has granted planning approval to Gyproc for a new quarry in Magheracloone.
Gyproc, Ireland’s only domestic manufacturer of plaster and plasterboard products has welcomed the decision from An Bord Pleanála. The approval will now see the development of a new open cast gypsum quarry in Magheracloone, County Monaghan.
This approval follows a detailed three-year planning process, shaped by ongoing engagement with local residents, community organisations, and elected representatives. Gyproc has operated in the area for nearly 90 years and in a statement issued to Northern Sound they say they remain committed to maintaining its long-standing relationships and open dialogue with the local community.
The statement said, this decision marks an important milestone in securing the long-term supply of gypsum, a critical raw material for Ireland’s construction sector, while supporting the continuity of local operations and employment in the Kingscourt and Magheracloone area. The development includes the creation of a new open cast quarry, construction of a tunnel beneath the R179 main road connecting Kingscourt and Carrickmacross, refurbishment of the existing processing plant, and improvements to the quarry’s entrance and surrounding infrastructure.
Construction on the new project will begin with the tunnel works, followed by landscaping and site development. Mining activity is expected to begin approximately one year after the start of construction. The tendering of this work and detailed scheduling will begin now. As part of the global Saint-Gobain group, Gyproc’s investment in this new facility reflects its long-term commitment to Ireland. The project will support local employment and contribute to the sustainability of the company’s operations, while ensuring Ireland’s continued access to domestically produced gypsum.
Speaking on the planning approval, Kieran Holohan – Managing Director of Saint-Gobain, Ireland said, they welcome this planning approval as an important step forward for our operations in Monaghan and the wider Irish construction sector. It reflects the outcome of an extensive planning process and continued engagement with the local community.
This development represents the continuation of existing mining activity in the area, carried out under strict environmental and regulatory oversight. All elements of the development have been carefully assessed to ensure compliance with statutory standards relating to water, air, vibration, and noise. These will be closely monitored by Gyproc and subject to ongoing oversight by the relevant authorities.
