Victory for Kilmeaden community
Mary-Sue and Niall along with residents who held a protest against the proposed Data Centre planed for Kilmeaden. Photo: Joe Evans
One of the largest and most controversial planning applications ever submitted in Waterford has been refused by the local planning authority.
The 108-hectare mixed-use proposal has attracted significant protest from Kilmeaden locals in recent months, who say that the development would transform the small residential village into a largescale industrial site.
The planning application included provision for data centres, wind turbines and solar farms, as well as apartments, supermarket, gym, café, health centre and more.
For months, the local community have been active in their protest against the development.
Grassroot community groups have gone door-to-door since the application was submitted, encouraging residents to submit objections.
Over 500 submissions were made by locals during the planning process.
Community meetings and gatherings have also regularly taken place in the village.
On Sunday October 11, around 300 people held a drive-slow protest from Kilmeaden towards Waterford city.
Upon arrival to the city, a protest took place outside the planning offices of Waterford City and County Council on The Mall.
The work has paid off, as yesterday, Waterford City and County Council rejected the planning application today.
Sinn Féin councillor representing the area, Catherine Burke, welcomed the refusal.
“The strength of feeling in the community was clear throughout this process" she said.
"Residents were deeply concerned about the impact this development would have on Kilmeaden, and they deserve credit for coming together and making their voices heard.
“This decision will be welcomed by those who fought to protect their community."
(Funded by the Local Democracy Scheme)
