An Bord Pleanala has confirmed it has received an appeal against a decision by Meath County Council granting planning permission for an annual concert at Slane Castle. Lord Mount Charles, owner of the castle, said the appeal means there will not be a concert in 1998.
The closing date for appeals was yesterday, and the sole objection was lodged on Tuesday by the Slane Householders' Association. It cites concerns about the effects of the concerts on the village and its residents. It was lodged in the name of Mr Tom Maloney, with an address in Slane. Last month the council granted permission to concert promoter Mr Eamon McCann to hold one concert a year between 1998 and 2007 at Slane Castle. The proposal was for a concert on a Saturday in June, July, August or September. There were 14 conditions attached, including cleaning the village and payment of money to villagers.
Lord Mount Charles said he was not surprised at the last-minute appeal. "The likelihood of a concert in 1998 is extremely slim," he said. "The only hope left for a concert in 1998 is for the Minister for the Environment to introduce a proper licensing system for outdoor events as a matter of urgency."