Local people near Athenry in Co Galway have welcomed the news that plans for a power plant in the area have been withdrawn. Galway County Council had recommended the refusal of planning permission to Constant Energy Ltd for the 200-megawatt plant in Cashla. However, the company has just withdrawn the application, meaning it cannot be appealed to An Bord Pleanala. Several public meetings were held in opposition to the proposal, with local residents concerned about its proximity to schools, as well as the environmental and health impacts. More than 300 objections were lodged with the planning department of Galway County Council in opposition to the plant.