Waterford City and County Council has refused planning permission for a major data centre and mixed-use development proposed for Kilmeaden.

The decision, dated Thursday, October 15th, comes following significant local opposition to the development, which attracted more than 500 submissions during the planning process.

Crag Rathnew DC Limited and Kent Homes Limited had sought permission to develop the former cheese factory site and adjoining lands at Blackknock and Adamstown, covering almost 109 hectares.

The controversial proposals included a major technology park containing three large ICT facility buildings, each extending to approximately 24,000 square metres.

An energy centre featuring 16 gas-powered turbines was also proposed, alongside a solar farm containing more than 43,000 solar panels and a battery energy storage system.

The wider development would have included a new village centre with 48 apartments, a supermarket with an off-licence, childcare facility, community centre, gym, café, health centre and pharmacy.

However, Waterford City and County Council has now issued a formal notification of its decision to refuse permission for the development.

The plans had generated considerable opposition from residents in Kilmeaden and surrounding communities.

Last month, protesters gathered outside Waterford City and County Council offices on The Mall in Waterford City to voice their concerns about the scale and potential impact of the development.

More than 500 submission entries were listed in relation to the application, with Kilmeaden Against Industrialisation, the Blacknock/Kilmeaden Residents Association and Kilmeaden Community Network among the local groups represented.

Waterford TD Conor McGuinness and local representative Adam Wyse had also publicly opposed the proposals.

The planning application was originally received in September 2025, with further information submitted in August 2026.

A decision had been expected by October 19th, but the Council has confirmed its refusal four days ahead of that date.

The formal notification, issued under planning register number 25/60625, confirms that the local authority decided to refuse permission on October 15th.