Euro Chinese Trading Hub plan approved

An Bord Pleanála has given the green light for the first phase of a massive project in Co Westmeath, it has emerged today.

The Euro Chinese Trading Hub has been designed to provide an opportunity for Chinese companies to display their goods and services for European buyers at Creggan, near Athlone.

The first part would have a floor area of 100,000 square metres, and include 12 exhibition halls, a four-storey reception building, and 1,370 underground car parking spaces.

The larger final project covers a 138-hectare site and includes hotels and apartments.

An Bord Pleanála said that it approved the initial phase of the development at a meeting on April 25.