‘Golden circle’ prevented shopping development, claims developer

THE Planning Tribunal has heard allegations that “a golden circle” was in operation to prevent Tom Gilmartin from developing a major shopping centre at Quarryvale in west Dublin.

The retired developer told the inquiry yesterday he believed the actions of several members of Dublin County Council, led by the former Fianna Fáil TD Liam Lawlor, had forced him to abandon the project in the early 1990s.

Other councillors identified by Mr Gilmartin as seeking money from him for their support on Quarryvale were Finbarr Hanrahan, Seán Gilbride and Colm McGrath, who were all party colleagues of Mr Lawlor at the time.