An Taisce concerned about Athlone planning decision

An Taisce, the National Trust, has expressed its concern at the granting of planning permission for the first phase of the Euro Chinese Trading Hub in Co. Westmeath.

In An Taisce’s appeal to An Bord Pleanala, it warned that a similar development has been planned for the Wirral near Liverpool and smaller-scale trade hubs have already been established across Europe.

An Taisce claimed Athlone would not be able to compete with access to Liverpool through its ports and airports.

The body also said "the vague nature of the planning conditions" attached to the development is a serious concern.

An Bord Pleanala gave the green light for the €175m development in Creggan outside Athlone, and attached 37 conditions, mostly technical, to the planning decision.

It has been speculated that when the development is complete the entire five phases of the site will have cost €1.4bn.

Barry Kehoe, director of services in Westmeath County Council’s planning division, said the authority welcomed the green light.

“We welcome the positive decision and we hope that it proceeds as soon as possible because of the economic impact in the region,” he said.

It is estimated that 1,200 construction jobs will be created to build the massive facility, with up to 1,500 full-time positions once it opens.

John McGrath, President of the Athlone Chamber of Commerce, said the project would give a major boost to the Midlands town.