‘Reckless and irresponsible’: Louth councillors condemn An Taisce’s late bid to block data centre

By Olivia Ryan, The Drogheda Independent

Drogheda councillors are seeking a meeting with An Taisce after an "eleventh hour” objection to the proposed data centre at the former Premier Periclase site.

At the latest meeting of the Drogheda Borough District, Cllr Pio Smith called on the Mayor to write to An Taisce and request a meeting with councillors “to discuss An Taisce’s objection to the proposed development of Premier Periclase.”

Cllr Smith warned that the “last minute” appeal could result in delays of up to two years, potentially jeopardising investment and leaving the former industrial site “as a dump.”

An Taisce lodged a formal appeal with An Bord Pleanála in summer 2025, challenging Louth County Council’s decision to grant permission for the proposed data centre. The objection cited concerns about the energy demands of data centres, carbon and climate impacts, water supply issues, and compliance with the Water Framework Directive.

However, Cllr Smith told the meeting that the plans include “significant efforts to mitigate the climate impact” and would ultimately improve the local environment by removing an unsightly facility that has long blighted the area.

He said the project could act as a “catalyst” for the wider redevelopment of the surrounding lands along the Boyne, noting that An Taisce “should have regard” to the broader benefits. The proposal includes amenities such as a river boardwalk, potential berthing facilities for ships, and would enable completion of the final section of the Drogheda Port Access Northern Cross Route.

Cllr Smith sharply criticised the timing of the appeal, saying it was lodged just “fifteen minutes before the closing date.”

A hearing before An Bord Pleanála is expected in the coming weeks.

Cllr Debbie McCole supported the motion, saying the delay was having a “clear impact” on redevelopment opportunities for the strategic site and that meeting An Taisce would be welcome.

Cllr Kevin Callan said the former Premier Periclase lands had been “an environmental dump for many, many years,” and criticised the objection.

“For An Taisce to drop this in at the last minute is irresponsible and reckless,” he said. “It is counter‑productive to developing the site in a sustainable way.”

Cllr Anne Marie Ford also backed the call, saying councillors had attended a presentation at the site and that the emerging plans “offered wonderful opportunities for our town.” She said she was “disgusted that an objection was put in at the eleventh hour.”