New use mooted for former Birr print plant

A former printing facility in Birr could begin a new life as a power generation station, according to a newly published planning notice.

James Fanning has signalled his intentions to apply for planning permission to change the use of part of the old Midland Web Print Ltd building in Syngefield, to a power generation station with dispatchable generators.

The installation of an ancilliary electricity substation to accommodate the proposed development is also included in the project.

According to the planning notice, the change of use relates to a part of an existing portal framed building located to the rear of the development.

The entire development is contained within the curtilage of a protected structure, the notice adds.

The applicant has a fortnight to submit formal plans to Offaly County Council for the project following the publication of the planning notice.