Regional Aquatic Centre, Knocknacarra, Galway
MKO is delighted to confirm that planning permission has been granted for a landmark swimming and sports facility in Knocknacarra, Galway, on behalf of Forbairt Snámh Thiar Cuideachta Faoi Theorainn Ráthaíochta. This new development will deliver a much-needed, high-quality sports amenity for Galway City and the wider Connacht region, centred around a competition-standard 35 x 25m swimming pool. Designed to support the growth of swimming and water polo in the West of Ireland, the facility will provide dedicated space for training, competition, and community use. The development also includes gym and fitness facilities, flexible indoor courts, changing areas, a coffee dock, and upgraded pedestrian and cycle access. Importantly, it will improve access to sport and wellbeing activities for all ages and abilities, fostering participation in aquatic sports and supporting a healthier, more active community. Located off Altán Road and Millers Lane, this project represents a significant investment in regional sports infrastructure and will serve schools, clubs, and individuals across Galway City and County, and beyond. MKO is proud to have led the planning process for this vital piece of community infrastructure and looks forward to seeing the long-term benefits it will bring to Galway and the wider Connacht sporting landscape.
Westgate Office Park, Knocknacarra, Galway
MKO is pleased to announce that planning permission has been secured for the Westgate commercial development in Galway, a major step forward in supporting employment growth and sustainable urban development in the city. The development was first granted planning permission by Galway City Council in March 2024. Following a third-party appeal, the scheme was also approved by An Coimisiún Pleanála last month. Located adjacent to Bóthar Stiofáin, near the junction with Rahoon Road, Westgate will deliver a modern, high-quality office campus designed to accommodate up to 1,500 workers across three architecturally distinctive blocks. Ranging from four to eight storeys, the buildings are thoughtfully scaled, with the lowest block fronting Bóthar Stiofáin to integrate seamlessly into the surrounding urban fabric.
This significant new employment hub will contribute to Galway’s economic vitality, helping to attract and retain businesses in the west of Ireland while supporting compact growth in line with national planning objectives. The development which features enhanced pedestrian and cyclist access, public realm improvements, and energy-efficient design shall be a major component in rebalancing the west/east divide between residential and employment centers in Galway city, allowing Glaswegian’s to live and work on the west side of the city. MKO led the planning process for this transformative project and is proud to support the delivery of high-quality commercial infrastructure that strengthens Galway’s role as a regional driver for innovation, business, and employment.
Carrig Wind Farm, Co. Tipperary
MKO is delighted to have received a grant of permission from An Coimisiún Pleanála for our client Carrig Renewable Energy Limited. The development is for a wind farm comprising 7 no. wind turbines and associated infrastructure, at Cloncorig and adjacent townlands, in Co. Tipperary. The wind farm will support the achievement of 9GW of electricity from onshore wind and 80% renewable energy share by 2030, as set out in the national Climate Action Plan 2025.
This significant milestone is a testament to our teams’ dedication and expertise across various disciplines, including Environmental Renewables, Ecology, Ornithology, Landscape and Visual, CAD, GIS, Bats, and Planning Renewables.
Renewable news
Ireland’s wind power dominates renewable energy output in 2023
Wind energy accounted for more than a third of Ireland’s electricity generation in 2023, according to new data released by the Central Statistics Office (CSO). The figures form part of the latest update on Ireland’s progress towards achieving United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy. The CSO report shows that 40.4% of electricity in 2023 came from renewable sources, with wind contributing a substantial 34.1%. Overall, the Renewable Energy Share (RES) of total energy use stood at 15.3%, with electricity making up 10.1%, heat 2.7%, and transport 2.4%.
Noel Cunniffe: Ireland’s offshore wind strategy risks becoming just a notion
Ireland has made important progress in developing its offshore wind sector, including new legislation, the creation of the Maritime Area Regulatory Authority, and investment in grid infrastructure. A successful auction in 2023 secured 3.1 GW of capacity, and a second auction is planned for later this year. However, delays in planning approvals and lack of clarity around future development sites are undermining investor confidence and slowing momentum. Five key projects remain stalled, and without clearer plans for grid connections and regional economic benefits, medium-term uncertainty persists. A national maritime development plan is due by 2027, but it requires urgent funding, staffing, and industry engagement to stay on track. Without decisive action, Ireland risks missing its opportunity to build a world-class offshore wind industry, turning a promising strategy into little more than a notion.
Policy and legislation
Cabinet to discuss detached modular home planning rules:
Detached modular homes up to 45 sq.m built in a back garden will be exempt from the requirement to seek planning permission under proposals to be discussed by the Cabinet. The plan is being brought forward by Minister of State for Planning John Cummins along with Minister for Housing James Browne. The proposed changes include allowing an exemption for detached modular homes to the rear of a dwelling with a size up to 45 sq.m. The unit must comply with building regulations while the size of the residual private garden space of 25 sq.m must be retained and set back from boundary walls. Under current rules, an extension to the rear of a property is exempt from planning once it is 40 sq.m and is attached to the property.
Minister O’Brien secures government approval for new ‘Private Wires’ policy to unlock private investment in electricity infrastructure
This Bill will enable an application for an extension of duration of permission to be made on permissions for housing development that are nearing the end of their duration period and have not yet commenced. It will allow for the provisions of Section 180 of the new Planning and Development Act 2024 to retrospectively apply to permissions that have already been through Judicial Review – or are currently in Judicial Review – and are subsequently permitted, thereby avoiding a situation whereby in the past planning permissions have expired due to delays caused by the Judicial Review process
Public consultations
Kilkenny County Council
Proposed Variation No.6 to the Kilkenny City and County Development Plan 2021 – 2027: Ferrybank Belview Framework Plan. Public Consultation Period: 18th July 2025 – 19th September 2025
Sligo County Council
Pre-draft public consultation on a proposed Sligo Town and Environs Urban Area Plan. Public Consultation Period: 9th July 2025 – 22nd August 2025