An Bord Pleanála has given Shannon LNG permission to apply for planning as a strategic infrastructure project.
Under the section 37 A of the Planning and Development Act, designation as a strategic infrastructure project means the applicant bypasses Kerry County Council and applies directly to the planning authority.
The proposed development in Ballylongford is for a liquefied natural gas (LNG) regasification terminal, together with already-permitted combined heat and power plant, including an LNG jetty to facilitate the berthing of a floating storage unit, onshore vaporisation process equipment and administrative and associated buildings.
Last month, the Cabinet approved a policy statement, confirming a moratorium on the development of LNG import terminals, pending the completion of review of energy security supply.
The statement set out a number of measures, including stating it would not be appropriate for the development of any LNG terminals in Ireland to be permitted while that review takes place.
The securing of strategic project status would indicate that New Fortress Energy, the global energy company now behind Shannon LNG, intends to apply for planning despite the government's policy statement.
