Hopes for positive outcome for Portwest HQ plans

THERE are hopes of a 'more positive outcome' for Portwest's plans to building a new HQ in Westport.

An Bord Pleanála recently rejected the company's proposed development at The Quay, which had been given the green light by Mayo County Council.

At a meeting of the local authority yesterday (Monday), chief executive Peter Hynes indicated that 'options are being pursued and reviewed'.

Concern around the length of time it takes for planning decisions to be made was raised by Westport-based Councillor Christy Hyland. It took over two years in this instance, and in a situation where jobs were being created that timeframe needed to be shortened, he said.

Other companies would look at this and think why would they bother.

Some of the jobs in the Portwest facility were going to Manchester as a result, he added.

“I respect the process but why would it take over two years to get a decision on this. Our people need jobs. We need a quicker turnaround.”

The cathaoirleach, Councillor Brendan Mulroy, commented that the Portwest plant not being granted planning by An Bord Pleanála was a 'sad day for Westport and Mayo'.

Responding, Mr. Hynes said it was a shared view that the time it takes to deal with applications of all natures needs to be reviewed. If we as a country are open to business, it should be faster and more efficient in giving either a positive or negative answer.

In this particular case, he suggested the least comment made in the current climate the better.

“There are other options being pursued and reviewed and hopefully there will be a more positive outcome than there appears.”