The future of the Galway port redevelopment could rest on an accessible rail network, after An Bord Pleanála scrapped plans for a €160 million container terminal at Oysterbank in Ringaskiddy due to poor road links.

Port of Cork was initially refused permission for the development by the local planning authority, but an appeal was lodged to An Bord Pleanála.

The oral hearing, held in April, lasted for 15 days and dealt with objections from numerous stakeholders.

High-profile opposition came from the port of Waterford, who objected on the grounds the new facility in Cork would adversely affect their business.

Since the ruling, Foreign Affairs Minister Micheál Martin has said a solution, of reducing CO2 emissions at the potential site, could be transporting freight by rail.

-- Advertisement --

The Minister has advised the Port of Cork to establish links with local group before submitting alternative development plans.

Head of Galway Harbour Company Tom O'Neill has identified the possible similarities in the Cork and Galway plans: "At pre-planning meetings held between Galway Harbour Company and An Bord Pleanála, the board has repeatedly emphasised the requirement of proper road access and highlighted the immense importance of access to the rail line."

Galway Harbour Company's redevelopment proposals are for the existing 40-acre Galway port site, situated adjacent to Ceannt Station and the Galway to Dublin railway line.

Draft plans show how the rail network would be integrated as a key element of the development.

According to reports, one proposal is a new road to run alongside the rail line from Ceannt Station, which links the Galway to Oranmore dual carriageway.

The plans will be subject to approval from Galway city council.

See: Cork Cargo Terminal Planning Permission Refused

(PR/JM)