Plans for pyrotechnics storage facility in north Mayo rejected
A PROPOSAL to install a shipping container underground for storing pyrotechnics has been rejected by Mayo County Council.
It related to a site at Rathoma, Killala, where planning permission was sought to install a 40ft metal shipping container underground with 3.2m high earth mounding to all sides for the safe and secure storage of pyrotechnics (Class 1 hazardous goods).
A timber shed for the packing and unpacking of pyrotechnics, green mesh security fencing and stock proof fencing were also part of the proposal submitted to council planners by the company Rocket Pyrotechnics Ltd.
The family-owned business is currently based in Co. Wicklow, but the owner is looking to relocate to their native Killala.
Rocket Pyrotechnics have worked in the professional fireworks display business for over 25 years, planners were told in a submission, with a reputation as one of the best in the country.
Safety of staff, clients and the viewing public is always the number one priority.
Due to Brexit and the changes it has brought to their supply chain, their business model wasn't sustainable without securing a storage facility.
A planner's report, setting out a refusal, found that having regard to the rural location and the nature and scale of the proposed development and the objectives of the Mayo County Development Plan 2022-2028, in particular objective EDO 54 regarding commercial development in a rural area, the lack of sufficient justification for the provision of a pyrotechnics storage facility at this location, and the surrounding pattern of development in the area, ‘it is considered that the proposed development would represent haphazard sporadic development in a rural area, would be contrary to the objectives of the current County Development Plan to only permit commercial development in rural areas where there is a proven need to locate'.
It would seriously injure the amenities, or depreciate the value, of property in the vicinity and would be contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.