An Bord Pleanála (ABP) has recently announced its decision to uphold the planning permission for Diageo’s proposed brewery in Newbridge, Ireland. This new brewery will be the first one built by the beverage giant in Ireland since the 1960s. The development of the brewery represents a significant investment of €200 million and is expected to create up to 1,000 jobs during the construction phase.
Last week, there were allegations made in an RTÉ Investigates report regarding payments to objectors in the planning system. However, the individual at the center of these allegations confirmed that no financial inducement was sought or offered in connection with the withdrawal of their appeal against Diageo’s planned brewery.
In response to ABP’s decision, Kildare South TD and Minister, Martin Heydon, expressed his support and welcomed the news. Minister Heydon highlighted the importance of Diageo’s investment in Kildare South and its potential to create employment opportunities in the area. He also emphasized the significance of having a carbon-neutral brewery, which aligns with the government’s commitment to sustainability.
Senator Fiona O’Loughlin, an Oireachtas member representing Newbridge, also welcomed ABP’s decision. She had been actively involved in advocating for the project’s strategic importance and highlighting its potential economic benefits. Senator O’Loughlin emphasized that the construction of the state-of-the-art, carbon-neutral brewery will boost the local economy by creating up to 1,000 construction jobs and providing long-term employment opportunities.
Both Minister Heydon and Senator O’Loughlin recognized the potential of the food and drink sector in Ireland and the economic value it can bring. Minister Heydon, as the Minister of State in the Department of Agriculture, expressed his optimism about the development of Ireland’s first carbon-neutral brewery and its positive impact on Kildare South and the country as a whole.
The decision by ABP to uphold the planning permission for Diageo’s brewery in Newbridge is seen as a significant win for the local economy and a vote of confidence in the future commercial viability of the area. The project not only represents a major investment but also demonstrates Diageo’s commitment to sustainability by aiming to be carbon-neutral.
The construction of the brewery in Little Connell, Newbridge is expected to commence soon, bringing economic growth and employment opportunities to the region. With a well-educated workforce and its strategic location, Kildare South is seen as an ideal location for such investments. This development will not only benefit the local community but also contribute to the overall growth of the food and drink sector in Ireland.
