Planning regulator contacts An Bord Pleanála about potential conflict of interest over Cork site

The matter centres on a decision by a subdivision of the board, chaired by Mr Hyde, to deny planning permission for the development of 191 apartments on the old Hewitts distillery site in Blackpool, Cork City.

The planning regulator has been in contact with An Bord Pleanála over recent allegations about a board member’s potential conflict of interest and a failure to declare assets. 

The regulator’s office has no remit to investigate specific allegations in a planning authority, but a spokesperson confirmed that contact was made “to confirm procedures are in place with regard to the making of relevant returns from board members”.