Planning decided: to extend an underground exploration tunnel within Hanlonstown, Gainstown and Curraghtown …

to extend an underground exploration tunnel within Hanlonstown, Gainstown and Curraghtown Townlands, Navan, County Meath. The development will consist of extending the existing TRDEX underground exploration tunnel by approximately 3.0 kilometres through hard rock, from a depth of approximately 1,020 to 1,200 metres below ground level. The purpose of this extension is to facilitate exploration drilling and resource definition for the deposit known as Tara Deep. The proposed development will be carried out in three phases: Phase 1 will extend the existing exploration tunnel by approximately 450 m; Phase 2 will involve construction of a tunnel to the east, perpendicular to existing tunnel with a spiral decline of approximately 1,900 m; and Phase 3 will involve construction of a parallel tunnel to the west approximately 600 m. Ancillary bays and cubbies will also be developed as smaller tunnels to facilitate exploration drilling. No surface works, ore extraction or processing will be undertaken as part of this development. Access will be from the existing underground mine. A Natura Impact Statement (NIS) will be submitted to the Planning Authority with the planning application. Significant Further Information/Revised Plans submitted on this application