Data centre appeals to An Coimisiún Pleanála
The €1 billion Rochfortbridge data centre development has moved into the appeals process following a number of third-party appeals to An Coimisiún Pleanála about the project.
The proposed Red Admiral DC Ltd development involves the demolition of a derelict dwelling and agricultural sheds at Gneevebane, Oldtown, Farthingstown, Castlelost, Kiltotan and Collinstown, near Rochfortbridge, to make way for a six-unit data centre campus and decentralised energy resource on a 600-acre site.
At the start of June, Westmeath County Council granted the development 10-year planning permission, subject to 32 conditions, despite having received more than 50 submissions during the planning process.
The developer maintained that the ambitious project, which also includes a solar farm and associated infrastructure, is expected to create around 760 permanent direct jobs and a further 1,000 indirect jobs during its five-year construction phase.
An Environmental Impact Assessment Report accompanied the application, while the proposed decentralised energy resource will require an Industrial Emissions Licence from the Environmental Protection Agency before it can operate.
Planning records show one appeal lodged by John Conway was ruled invalid by An Coimisiún Pleanála on June 17 after the required fee was deemed not to comply with Section 127(1)(f) of the Planning and Development Act. However, a separate appeal by Mr Conway remains active, alongside further appeals submitted by David Mahon and Eamon Duigenan. The appeals are due to be determined by October 27, 2026.
During the planning process, BKC Solicitors, acting on behalf of Mr Conway, argued that the development would place what they described as an “unacceptable burden” on the national electricity grid. That submission also questioned the project’s climate impact and highlighted the absence of an emissions statement, raising concerns about the practicality of the proposal.
The objectors further argued that the proposed data halls, reaching approximately 72 feet in height, would adversely affect the visual character of Rochfortbridge and the surrounding rural landscape.
The development forms part of the wider plans of the Lumcloon Energy Group, owned by Offaly businessman Nigel Reams.
Separately, Lumcloon Energy Limited has now signalled its intention to seek amendments to previously approved plans for an Energy Storage System facility, including a reserve gas-fired generator designed to provide backup and support for the national electricity system.
The outcome of the appeals before An Coimisiún Pleanála will determine whether one of the Midlands’ largest proposed data centre developments can proceed.