Meath Council cites problems with cement stack emissions

Meath County Council has expressed concern about the possible damage to Newgrange and the other national monuments in the Bru na Boinne World Heritage site from emissions from a 125m (400ft) cement stack proposed by Irish Cement.

The council said that the company did not consider other locations in its impact statement. The council was due to deliver its decision on the planning application for the extension to the plant at Platin outside Drogheda during the week of Monday, January 23rd. Instead it has issued the company with the request for more information on the application.

A cross-Border heritage and environment forum has described the plan as "a large-scale assault on the heritage of the Boyne Valley". The Battle of the Boyne group said it was dismayed at what was being proposed.
The planners also said the company had not explained why the stack needs to be around 20 metres higher than the other stacks on site. They have asked the company to address the issue.

The company has been asked to give details on the possible consequences and damage from emissions on decorated and inscribed stones at national monuments and ancient cultural artefacts.
Irish Cement has six months within which to provide the information requested otherwise the company will be deemed to have withdrawn the application.