Go-ahead for project to recycle scrap metal

Bord Pleanála has granted permission for a company to recycle 45,000 tonnes of scrapped metal annually at a former dockyard in Co Cork.

Cork Docklands Holdings Ltd was successful in its appeal against a decision by Cobh Town Council to refuse permission for the recycling facility at the former Verolme dockyard.

The company plans to export baled recycled metal recovered from scrapped cars and other metals from domestic and commercial sources.

It will either be shipped to Britain or the Far East.

Cobh Town Council had refused permission on a number of grounds, including the claim that the local road network would not be able to handle the amount of HGV traffic generated by the project.

The local authority also fears the proposed development would give rise to an unacceptable fire safety risk.

The company appealed the decision on a number of grounds, in particular stating that the traffic generated would be within accepted guidelines.

Board Pleanála inspector Hugh Mannion visited the site and compiled a report in which he said the additional traffic would endanger public safety “and would, therefore, be contrary to the proper planning and development of the area”.

However, the board of Bord Pleanála overruled him and granted permission for the project, subject to certain conditions.

The board said the dockyard location was suitable for such a development, as it would enable “convenient transhipment of end product”.

Board members also ruled the project would be acceptable in terms of traffic safety and convenience, and “would not cause serious injury to the amenities of property in the vicinity and would, therefore, be in accordance with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area”.

The board said they considered the environmental impacts of the proposal were acceptable when deciding not to accept Mr Mannion’s recommendation.

The conditions imposed include a grant of permission for a seven-year period of operation. After that expiry date, the company will have to lodge another planning application for continuation of the business.

The board said this condition was included to enable the impact of the project to be assessed.

It also imposed restrictions on working hours at the plant to ensure nearby householders would not be upset by noise.

Work on the site will be restricted to 8am-6pm on weekdays and 8am-4pm on Saturdays. No work will be permitted on Sundays or Bank Holidays.

Conditions were also imposed on the construction phase of the project to minimise disruption to the local community.