Cloghan Point: Whitehead oil terminal decision expected

A judicial review challenge regarding the expansion of an oil terminal in County Antrim is set to be heard in Belfast. Local residents in Whitehead have raised objections against the Cloghan Point facility, which has been operational since the 1970s, initially serving power stations and more recently storing diesel and gas oil for the Republic of Ireland's strategic reserve. The Mid and East Antrim Council approved the expansion plans in April 2024, despite significant local opposition. The Stop Whitehead Oil Terminal group argues that the project should have undergone a more thorough review process. They contend that the council's decision to approve the expansion was flawed and should be declared unlawful. The Department for Infrastructure has stated that it did not find the project impactful enough to warrant a review. The legal action is supported by the Public Interest Litigation Support group, which aims to challenge the council's decision and halt the expansion plans. The outcome of this judicial review could have significant implications for local governance and community rights in planning decisions. As the court date approaches, the residents of Whitehead remain concerned about the potential environmental and social impacts of the terminal's expansion. The case highlights the ongoing tensions between local communities and governmental planning authorities, particularly in relation to industrial developments in sensitive areas.