A secondary school located in the Co. Wicklow town of Greystones has lost its appeal against planning permission granted to McDonald's to construct a drive through restaurant less than 100 metres from its entrance.
According to The Irish Examiner, the board of management at Temple Carrig school alleged that the location was chosen by the fast food chain due to its proximity to their school, as well as two other educational facilities, which have approximately 1,800 students enrolled between them.
Mr. Justice Max Barrett dismissed claims that An Bord Pleanála had failed to meet obligations under the Planning and Development Act 2000 to "have regard to" government policies and objectives concerning the health of children in allowing a development comprising a McDonald's restaurant, health and fitness studio and commercial unit at the Blacklion Neighbourhood Centre.
However, the Judge noted that the school should take some comfort from the fact that McDonald's has since seemingly lost interest in opening a restaurant at the site, at least for the time being, and that at present it appears more likely that a supermarket will occupy the premises instead.
