The owner of a well-known estate in Co Cavan has successfully resolved his High Court challenge against An Bord Pleanala's decision to allow an agri-food plant to extend its manufacturing facility.
John Morehart who owns the historic Bellamont Castle and surrounding 1,000 acres of land in Cootehill, challenged the board's decision to allow Abbott Ireland to extend its facility in Dromore, Co Monaghan, by an additional 2,661m2.
The company, which makes milk products for infants at its facility, wanted to expand its laboratory, office space, car park and warehouse facilities. Monaghan Co Council granted permission for the extension which was appealed by both Mr Morehart and An Taisce to the board.
Last year the board dismissed the appeal and gave Abbott the go-ahead to proceed with the proposed expansion. Mr Morehart brought High Court judicial review proceedings seeking to have the board's decision quashed.
In his action, Mr Morehart claimed that the board's decision was flawed on several grounds including that it failed to consider the proposed development in the context of its obligations under the EU Environmental Impact Assessment.
He further claimed that the board acted contrary to the EU Directive on Habitats in its determination of the application.
