Development of racecourse ‘proved a non-runner’

EFFORTS to develop the former Baldoyle Racecourse in north county Dublin during the early 1990s proved to be a non-runner, the Mahon Planning Tribunal heard yesterday.

Lobbyist Frank Dunlop alleges he bribed seven councillors to support the rezoning of the 400-acre property, then legally owned by Kerry-born developer John Byrne.

Pennine Holdings Ltd, which was behind the planning application, intended to establish a golf course and hotel on a 150-acre site under an option agreed with Mr Byrne. Mr Dunlop allegedly owned this company.