Appeal sought in cases that have "far-reaching implications" for peat industry

Two peat extraction companies have sought permission to appeal High Court decisions rejecting their challenges to An Bord Pleanála determinations that their operations are no longer exempt development. Bulrush Horticulture Ltd and Westland Horticulture Ltd, alongside Westmeath Peat Ltd and Cavan Peat Ltd, were rejected by Mr Justice Charles Meenan in February after the Board found their activities required planning permission from September 2012 onwards. The companies argue the cases raise points of exceptional public importance with significant implications for the peat industry. Key issues centre on whether environmental impact assessments apply to peat extraction and whether EU directives on environmental and habitat protection apply to operations that lawfully commenced as exempt development before 2012. An Bord Pleanála opposes the applications. Mr Justice Meenan reserved his decision on permitting appeals to the Court of Appeal following submissions from all parties.