Plans for the development of the Drogheda deepwater port in the North of County Dublin (Ireland) have been put on hold until planning permission has been given. Drogheda Port in partnership with Treasury Holdings will likely be subjected to a strategic environmental assessment (SEA), according to An Taisce (National Trust for Ireland).  An Taisce commended the decision by the Ministry of Transport, who deemed that "The most appropriate juncture for such an extension [of the harbour limits] to be considered would be after the proposal has been through the planning process."
     An Taisce had opposed any developments in either area of Bremore or Gormanston as they would 'seriously impact' on the Neolithic passage tomb complexes found there. A spokesperson for Treasury Holdings  said the developers were anxious to avoid the 'very significant' archaeological site in Bremore and are said to be considering the less sensitive region of Gormanston, although this site is partly deemed a special protection area (SPA) by the EU.
     
Source: The Irish Times (17 May 2010)