Planning permission for a high-performance rowing training centre in Co Wicklow has been refused by An Coimisiún Pleanála over potentially “significant adverse effects” on a type of goose found in the area. Rowing Ireland, the sport’s national governing body, had been granted permission by Wicklow County Council for the development at Burgage Moyle, near Blessington, in 2018. The site is of special conservation interest for greylag geese and lesser black-backed gulls. In response to Mr O’Sullivan’s appeal, Rowing Ireland said most of the existing rowing clubs using the Blessington lakes would use the facility. It said the change in location of the boathouse would be a “positive measure for roosting greylag geese”.

Source: The Irish Times January 16, 2026 06:44 UTC