Local group seeks to block Tesco project

A judge is to consider an eleventh hour application by a local environmental group seeking to block the development of a new Tesco Superstore in Cavan Town.

On Monday last week, October 6, ‘Friends of Killymooney Lough’ lodged an application for leave to appeal the outcome of the judicial review previously heard in the High Court and challenging An Coimisiún Pleanála’s decision to uphold permission for the new supermarket as granted by Cavan County Council.

It's understood the judge will now take some time to consider the 'Friends of Killymooney Lough’ application.

“We have to wait for this process to finish in its entirety. We remain committed to bringing a more modern shopping experience to customers in Cavan Town,” said a spokesperson for Tesco Ireland.

‘Friends of Killymooney Lough’ lodged a judicial review in February 2025 targeting An Bord Pleanála, the Minister for the Environment, and the Attorney General. The High Court agreed to fast-track the case, and Justice Richard Humphreys issued his ruling on July 16.

The Tesco project involves a 5,197 sq m store on a 3.86-hectare site at Townparks and Tullymongan Lower that includes a petrol station with four pumps, a drive-thru café, a car and jet wash area, nearly 300 car parking spaces, and over 100 bicycle bays.

There would also be a Grocery Home Shopping delivery dock, ‘Click and Collect’ spaces, and improved pedestrian links to the town centre. Vehicle access is proposed from Cock Hill Road.

Tesco had hoped to begin construction by March 2025 and has already appointed a local contractor to start site works.

‘Friends of Killymooney Lough’ argue that the plans conflict with environmental priorities, particularly due to its proximity to St Clare’s National School and Killymooney Lough.

They also question its alignment with Cavan County Council’s regeneration goals for the Abbeylands area, and the need for another supermarket given the nearby

Aldi.

The group is represented by FP Logue LLP and has previously opposed other developments near the lough, including a housing scheme by Gaeltech Sustainable Living.

Tesco has operated in Cavan since acquiring Quinnsworth in 1997 and also runs stores in Bailieborough and Virginia.The retailer describes Cavan as a key part of its national footprint and is reportedly in advanced talks with another tenant to take over its existing Townparks site, with an announcement expected in due course.