An Bord Pleanála has decided not to contest two High Court challenges to its permissions for 749 homes in counties Dublin and Waterford.
The board told the court on Monday it is no longer defending its approval for the development of 531 build-to-rent apartments in Dundrum, south Dublin, and 218 dwellings in Dungarvan.
Mr Justice David Holland was informed on Monday of a concession by the board in an unconnected action brought by ecologist Lisa Dolan and civil engineer Neil Renton, both of Abbeyside, Dungarvan, over plans for a 218-unit housing scheme in their town.
Barrister Christopher Hughes, instructed by BKC Solicitors, for Ms Dolan and Mr Renton, said a hearing date had been scheduled for the case.
In light of communications from the board the hearing will not proceed, the court heard.
Barrister Damien Keaney said the board’s move comes as a “shock” to his client, the notice party developer, Michael Ryan.
He only received the board’s letter of concession on Monday morning so he needed some time to consider his client’s next steps, including potentially bringing a motion seeking to defend the permission.
Mr Keaney said he will need to digest the basis for the board’s concession, which relates to an EU environmental screening law, called an Appropriate Assessment.
Mr Justice Holland adjourned the case to a later date.
The case is in court for mention again on October 31st, to give the developer an opportunity to review their actions - in light of An Bord Pleanala's decision to withdraw.
