A controversial bid to build an international standard 'Las Vegas-style' sports and leisure complex in Co Tipperary has been granted planning permission.

An Bord Pleanála has given the go-ahead for the construction of the massive construction project that is expected to cost €460m and be built on an 800-acre location in Co Tipperary.

It will be close to the village of Two-Mile-Borris, will include a 500-bedroom, five-star hotel; a 6,000sq m casino; an all-weather racecourse; a greyhound track and a golf course.

The site, which is located off the M8 Dublin-Cork motorway, will also feature a full-size replica of the White House in Washington, which will be used as a banqueting facility and to host wedding receptions.

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However, the planning permission for a 15,000-capacity underground entertainment centre was refused by An Bord Pleanála as it was deemed "inappropriate" given the location.

North Tipperary County Council granted planning permission for the project last year but the case was appealed to the board by some local residents and An Taisce after concerns were raised over the level of traffic which would be generated by the venue, along with noise, carbon emissions, helicopter use, its distance from public transport and the sustainability of such a large-scale development.

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An estimated 1,000 jobs will be created during the construction phase of the facility, which is expected to take three years and between 1,350 and 2,000 additional full-time positions are expected once the complex is completed, reported the Irish Times.

Meanwhile, in other planning news, the ex head of the Environmental Protection Agency was appointed as incoming Chair of An Bord Pleanála.

Dr Mary Kelly is to leave her role as Director General of the agency at the end of the summer. She will replace John O'Connor, who is retiring.

(BMcC/GK)