Planning for east Mayo biogas facility turned down

A PROPOSED agricultural biogas renewable energy facility in Swinford has been refused planing permission.

Locally-based Moy Valley Biogas had sought permission for the plant on a site adjacent to the old town dump at Lislackagh and Carrowbaun, just off the N5.

Residents in the Swinford area had a number of concerns about the proposal, including impact on road access and safety, odours, emissions and the pollution risk to the Spaddagh River.

Swinford Biogas Concern Group also felt the proposed location was not suitable - the nearest home is less than 200 metres away.

More than 1,200 people signed a petition against the facility and a further 254 lodged objections with Mayo County Council.

The council has this week issued its decision on the application: refused.

The planners report setting of the reasons for refusal had not been published on the council's website at the time of writing.