Planning approved for Gyproc quarry
Mining activity is expected to begin approximately one year after the start of construction.
An Bord Pleanála has granted planning approval to Gyproc, Ireland’s only domestic manufacturer of plaster and plasterboard products, for a quarry on the Cavan-Monaghan border.
The decision by the Bord to grant permission in respect of the of a new open cast gypsum quarry at Magheracloone has been welcomed by the company who say it “marks an important milestone” in securing the long-term supply of gypsum, a critical raw material for Ireland’s construction sector, while also supporting the continuity of local operations and employment locally.
The approval follows a detailed three-year planning process, shaped by ongoing engagement with local residents, community organisations, and elected representatives.
Gyproc has operated in the area between Kingscourt and Carrickmacross for nearly 90 years and says it remains committed to maintaining its long-standing relationships and open dialogue with the local community residing nearby.
The proposed development includes the creation of a new open cast quarry, construction of a tunnel beneath the R179 main road connecting Kingscourt and Carrickmacross, refurbishment of the existing processing plant, and improvements to the quarry’s entrance and surrounding infrastructure.
Speaking on the planning approval, Kieran Holohan, Managing Director of Saint-Gobain, Ireland said: “We welcome this planning approval as an important step forward for our operations in Monaghan and the wider Irish construction sector. It reflects the outcome of an extensive planning process and continued engagement with the local community.
“This development represents the continuation of existing mining activity in the area, carried out under strict environmental and regulatory oversight. All elements of the development have been carefully assessed to ensure compliance with statutory standards relating to water, air, vibration, and noise. These will be closely monitored by Gyproc and subject to ongoing oversight by the relevant authorities.”
He added: “We’re grateful for the feedback we’ve received to date and look forward to maintaining this rapport as the development progresses.”
Construction on the new project will begin with the tunnel works, followed by landscaping and site development.
Mining activity is expected to begin approximately one year after the start of construction.
The tendering of this work and detailed scheduling will begin now, say Gyproc.
As part of the global Saint-Gobain group, Gyproc’s investment in this new facility reflects its long-term commitment to Ireland.
The project the company states will support local employment and contribute to the sustainability of the company’s operations, while ensuring Ireland’s continued access to domestically produced gypsum.