Protect East Meath has just learned that Shannon Homes has withdrawn its planning application for 357 no. residential units (169 no. houses, 188 no. apartments), childcare facilities and associated site works at a site off the Colp Road and Mill Road.

This was the second attempt by Shannon Homes following a refusal by An Bord Pleanála in February this year prompted by a submission from Protect East Meath pointing out serious issues in relation to effects on the Boyne Estuary SPA area protecting winter birds.

The latest refusal follows our successful challenge to a development in Rathmullan proposed by Trailford Limited taken in partnership with the Highlands Residents Association. In that case the High Court found that An Bord Pleanála was legally prevented from granting planning permission on land zoned residential but qualified as phase II and not being available under the current development plan.

Protect East Meath had pointed out in its submission to An Bord Pleanála that the lands at Colp were also Phase II and therefore could not be developed under the current Meath County Development plan.

With this latest withdrawal no application can be made at least until the next County Development Plan comes into effect.

Only time will tell if it is going to be third time lucky for Shannon Homes.