Donegal County Council's decision to grant permission for a controversial scheme of 38 two-storey houses on the shore of Lough Foyle is to be appealed to An Bord Pleanála.
The Moville-Greencastle Environmental Group claims the scheme, by Regatta Developments Ltd and Red Sales Developments Ltd, breaches the county development plan because of its location on a scenic tourist route.
The group has pointed out that the county plan pledges to "conserve the overall character" of tourist routes.
It noted the county plan also states that new development "will not be permitted between roads and the sea" in cases where it would restrict, materially alter or intrude significantly on views or prospects from the road.
The housing scheme, located between Moville and Greencastle, would "clearly contravene" both of these objectives, according to the objectors, as well as threatening more ribbon development between the two settlements.
Stressing the importance of retaining them as separate entities, the group said they should not become part of "one big conurbation" as happened in Port na Bláth, Dunfanaghy, Portsalon, Downings, Carrigart and Horn Head.
"The area in question is very popular as a tourist destination, with people returning again and again drawn to the beauty and rural nature of the place. The shore walk which runs along the area outlined for development is a particular draw for visitors." The proposed development would "undoubtedly ruin any chance" of having it designated as a national heritage area.
According to the group, building in this area "would almost certainly cause a considerable amount of trauma" to the nesting ground of wild birds, such as grey herons, sparrowhawks, buzzards, willow warblers, collared doves, wood pigeons and blue tits.It would also threaten the survival of mammals such as badgers, foxes, otters, rabbits as well as lizards and frogs. Some of the trees were likely to be felled to make way for road access and a sewage treatment system.But despite the area's "breath-taking beauty" and its value as a habitat and recreational area, the group complained that no environmental impact study had been conducted.Neither the developers nor their architect, Ms Louise Haslett, of Swords, Co Dublin, could be contacted yesterday for comment.
