Plan for controversial Kinsale mussel farm is withdrawn
Some of the protestors who opposed the mussel farm during a protest flotilla last year. Picture: John Allen.
Members of the community in Kinsale are rejoicing as the Aquaculture Licences Appeals Board (ALAB) has ruled to withdraw an ongoing application for the development of a controversial mussel farm in the heart of Kinsale Harbour.
The ruling, announced this week, came following a board meeting held by ALAB on June 16.
In a determination letter published by ALAB, the agency said that the application was withdrawn due to the applicant's failure to furnish supplementary information, including a natura impact statement and supporting information for screening for appropriate assessment (SISAA).
The licence, which would have enabled Waterford-based company Woodstown Bay Shellfish Ltd to commercially cultivate mussels in the harbour, using bottom culture on the sub-tidal foreshore at a site between the Dock Beach, James Fort, and Charles Fort, was approved by the Department of Food, Agriculture and Marine at the end of May last year.
However, following a widespread opposition campaign launched by members of the public in Kinsale, an appeal challenging the decision to approve the licence was submitted in July, with 147 appellants voicing their concern for the development’s impact on local amenities.
A decision on the appeal was due to be handed down in October but was delayed by 12 months to allow for ALAB to assess the application thoroughly.
In assessing the appeal, ALAB determined that further information was required from the applicant, with a submission date set for May 8, 2026.
According to ALAB, Woodstown Bay Shellfish failed to provide such information, leading to its decision to deem the licence withdrawn in accordance with EU regulations.
Speaking to Kinsale resident Donal Hayes, who was among the near 150 appellants who launched an appeal against the development, said he is “beyond happy”.
“It’s been a long battle,” said Mr Hayes.
“This is just wonderful news and has reinforced my confidence in the system.
“Kinsale has come alive with this news, I’ve invited everyone to the Bulman Bar for a pint!
Marc Ó Riain, who was instrumental in setting up the land and sea protest opposing the development at the Dock Beach last summer, said this is “a brilliant outcome for Kinsale as a whole”.
“It’s great that the community came together and made this happen,” said Mr Ó Riain.
“In the event of a judicial review, we had a huge amount of people who said they would be willing to fund this if necessary.
“My view is that the applicant had the opportunity to carry out the required tests, and decided not to do so, so I don't think they have grounds for a review.
“There was a lot of effort put in by the community, so I’d say there will be a lot of celebration around Kinsale this weekend.”
Evelyn O’Riordan, a member of the Friends of Kinsale Harbour group, said it is “a great relief that this is all over”.
“The right decision was made in the face of so many appeals from the people of Kinsale,” said Ms O’Riordan.
Jon Hynes, director of the Kinsale Outdoor Education Centre, said “everybody in the area is thrilled”.
“I am delighted for the community of Kinsale, that we came together collectively to take a strong stance on this,” said Mr Hynes.
“It has demonstrated that when people come together, we can protect our environment, preserve habitats, and maintain the recreational tourism-related interests that exist here. This is definitely a win for the community.”
Commodore of the Kinsale Yacht Club,Anthony O’Neill said this is “fantastic news and comes as a relief to everyone”.
“The fantastic amenity that we have on our doorstep will remain available now and into the future for all water users,” said Mr O’Neill.
Woodstown Bay Shellfish Ltd now has three months to request a judicial review challenging the withdrawal of the application.
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