Plans to construct a ballroom in the Trump-owned Doonbeg resort in west Clare have been stalled by a sole objector living in Co. Longford.
This follows Liam Madden of Convent Rd, Longford, lodging separate appeals with An Coimisiúin Pleanála against two separate applications granted by Clare County Council last month.
Mr Madden has appealed two separate planning permissions granted last month by Clare County Council for a permanent ballroom and other upgrades at the west Clare resort, which is owned by US President Donald Trump.
In his appeal against the proposed ballroom, Mr Madden raises concerns about the condition of the Vertigo Angustior snail, a protected species found at the site.
He claims the species has deteriorated to near extinction at the location due to development at the resort since it first opened.
However, an ecological report stated the decline of the snail population is linked to marine erosion and habitat succession, and found the proposed ballroom and associated works would have no impact on the species.
Clare County Council granted planning permission for the development subject to 14 conditions.
One of those requires the developer, TIGL Ireland Enterprises Limited, to prepare a management plan for the Vertigo Angustior before construction begins.
Despite that condition, Mr Madden described the requirement as "a farce", stating the developer would be obliged to carry out such work in any case.
The application also received significant local support, with groups including Doonbeg GAA, Doonbeg Men’s Shed and Doonbeg Community Development Limited backed the development.
Doonbeg GAA told the council the project would enhance tourism in the area and provide long-term sustainable employment.
Local Fianna Fáil councillor Rita McInerney says the resort has been a major employer in west Clare and that while she is disappointed an appeal has been lodged, the planning process must now take its course.
An Coimisiún Pleanála will now consider the appeal before making a final decision on the proposed ballroom development.
