Rowing Ireland Refused Permission for Training Centre in Co Wicklow 

Wicklow County Council had approved the development but An Coimisiún Pleanála upheld an appeal against that decision.

Rowing Ireland has been refused planning permission for training centre in Co Wicklow 

Wicklow County Council had approved the development on the shore of Blessington Lakes

An Coimisiún Pleanála upheld an appeal against that decision because of its potential impact on a protected species of wild geese.

The proposed high-performance facility includes a new boathouse.

Greylag Geese are a protected species found in the adjoining Poulaphouca Reservoir Special Protection Area.

The commission says permitting the development would be contrary to the EU Habitats Directive and the objectives of the Wicklow County Development Plan.

Rowing Ireland has a high-performance centre with the National Rowing Centre in Farran Wood, Ovens, Co Cork. It claims there's a need for a similar facility for rowers in the east of Ireland, especially those living in the greater Dublin area where there are a large number of rowing clubs.