Diageo, the beverage conglomerate and producer of Guinness, has successfully overcome the single objection to its plan for a €200 million brewery in Newbridge, Co Kildare. The sole opponent, Mr. John Lynch, has rescinded his legal challenge in the High Court to scupper An Bord Pleanála’s endorsement of the project in December. Following fruitful negotiations with Diageo, the farmer and undertaker have withdrawn his case.
Mr. Lynch was advocating for the construction of the brewery in Athy, Co Kildare, presenting environmental and employment concerns as his reasons. Diageo first submitted plans for this brewery in July 2022, and after resolving all issues with Mr. Lynch during their mediation, a spokesperson for Diageo confirmed they were eager to proceed with the construction of Ireland’s first-ever carbon-neutral brewery. The undertaking will utilise Diageo’s €200 million funding and will benefit Irish commerce, jobs, sustainability efforts and local communities.
The spokesperson also mentioned that as part of the mutual agreement, Diageo is open to the thought of Athy as a location for future endeavours.
Despite withdrawing his opposition, Mr. Lynch still firmly believes that the brewery should be in Athy, reflecting the town’s reputation as Ireland’s primary malting barley producer. At the age of 74, this was his first ever dispute, and his main aim was to bring more jobs and prosperity to Athy through the brewery. However, he ultimately gave up the fight with the brewing giant, wishing Diageo well with the Newbridge brewery.
Mr Lynch has indicated his engagement in a confidentiality pact and stressed being quite bound in terms of sharing information. The upcoming brewery in Littleconnell is set to uplift the economy of Kildare, offering approximately 1,000 employment opportunities during its building phase of 20 months. Additionally, once operational, it is projected to add another 70 positions. The brewery’s round-the-clock operation, throughout the year, will focus on producing lagers and ales.