Clare County Council to develop Ennis quarry amid protest

Clare County Council is to allow the planned multi-million euro extension of a large-scale quarry to proceed on the outskirts of Ennis despite residents' objections.

Plans by the Whelan Group for the extension were lodged almost two years ago to cover just under a 40-acre extension. Residents claimed the plan would lead to nuisance of dust, noise, air and water pollution within the Fountain area.

It has emerged that one of the objectors is Perry Podger, the Kildare farmer jailed in connection with a sheep protest.
Mr Podger was jailed after refusing to pay Eu850 in fines and expenses. This came after he claimed that his sheep and passing drivers are endangered by Kildare County Council's failure to install a sheep grid near his farm.
Mr Podger established a company, Cairn Hill Environmental Protection Group Ltd, aimed at trying to prevent the Whelan Group from starting its plan.

In its decision, the council has allowed planning for sections one to five of the application. It has refused planning for sections six and seven apart from one area that was being sought for a planning retention.
The Whelan Group will now have an operating capacity of producing 370,000 cubic metres of limestone product per annum. The grant of permission is for a 10-year period unless a further grant is obtained.