BREAKING - Laois backs controversial Barrow Blueway which is rejected by Carlow

A controversial plan to develop a blueway for cyclists and hikers along the River Barrow at Graignamanagh, Goresbridge and St Mullins, and including a part of Laois including Vicarstown, Fisherstown and Courtwood has been refused planning permission by Carlow County Council.

Laois County Council granted conditional planning permission yesterday, Wednesday, February 21 for a 16-kilometre stretch from Vicarstown to Maganey through the county. It attached 25 conditions to its decision. 

A formal submission for planning permission was made to Laois, Kildare and Carlow County Councils by Waterways Ireland on Friday, January 27.

Laois County Council granted conditional planning permission on 

SEE ALSO: Plans launched for Blueway through Laois on River Barrow

In its decision, Carlow County Council said that based on the information submitted to it, including the Environment Impact Statement and Natura Impact statement, it was not satisfied that the applicant had demonstrated that the proposed development incorporating the provision of an on-bound surface of compacted stone and dust surface within a flood zone of the river Barrow would not significantly affect the River Barrow and River Nore and the council's conservation objectives.

It also said it was not satisfied that Waterways Ireland had demonstrated  that the blueway would not give rise to ecological impacts and would not significantly effect the River Barrow and River Nore special areas of conservation and its conservation objectives.

SEE ALSO - Public to be consulted on controversial Barrow Blueway through Laois