Planning permission for biogas facility in Navan to be challenged

An Bord Pleanála’s decision to give the go-ahead for the construction of an electricity-generating biogas facility in Co Meath is to be challenged in the High Court.

Niall Halpin (27), Johnstown, Navan, is opposed to the development which will convert farm slurry and other biodegradable waste into renewable energy and fertiliser. Mr Halpin, who has health issues, has permission to build a private dwelling close to the proposed plant. He claims the board’s decision is flawed.

The High Court heard Mr Halpin and his family were concerned about noise and disturbance from the proposed development.

He is seeking an order quashing a decision to grant permission to Greenfield Ventures Ltd to construct two anaerobic slurry digesters, storage tanks, an office, silage pit and other works at Gillstown, Navan.

Permission to challenge the board’s decision was granted.