An Taisce's 'last minute' objection to proposed Drogheda data centre could leave site as a 'dump'

An objection to a proposed development of a data centre in Drogheda has been labelled "unacceptable" by councillors. 

The issue was raised at the February meeting of Drogheda Borough District, in which Labour councillor Pio Smith called on Mayor Cllr Michelle Hall to request a meeting with An Taisce who submitted the objection to the development. 

An Taisce says it aims to protect and preserve Ireland's natural and built heritage, however, Cllr Smith said developers have made significant efforts to mitigate any climate impacts and therefore "shouldn't be targeted by An Taisce's campaign". 

Cllr Smith said the planned development of a data centre at the Premier Periclase site in Drogheda could be the "catalyst" in the redevelopment of the "underused industrial land bank". 

He said it has the potential to deliver "significant local employment" while also removing the existing facilities which "negatively impacts the natural environment". 

Conditional planning permission had been granted by Louth County Council, however was appealed by An Taisce to An Comisiún Pleanála during the summer of 2025. 

Cllr Smith said the objection was lodged "15 minutes before closing" and said a judgement is expected in the coming weeks. 

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Independent councillor Kevin Callan said "his blood is up" when speaking about the project, before describing An Taisce's objection as reckless, irresponsible and counterproductive. 

He said a change of use for the site would be a "God send" and if left, would remain an "environmental dump". 

Fine Gael councillor Anne-Marie Ford said she was "disgusted" to learn an objection was put in and said it was "absolutely unacceptable. 

She said the development would bring "wonderful opportunities" to the town. 

Finally, Sinn Féin councillor Debbie McCole said she was keen to see the development progress as soon as possible. 

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.