Creeslough Site Redevelopment Sparks Family Outrage

Donegal County Council has granted planning permission to Vivo Shell Limited to redevelop the site of the tragic Creeslough explosion, where 10 people died on October 7, 2022. The redevelopment plan includes demolishing the existing structure to build a new petrol station, shop, post office, and a memorial garden. This decision has sparked outrage among the victims' families, who have lodged over 30 objections, arguing that commercial interests are being prioritized over their grief and the site’s significance as a place of mourning. Families and their legal representatives, Phoenix Law, assert that the redevelopment is insensitive and could interfere with ongoing investigations into the explosion's cause, suspected to be a gas leak. An appeal period of four weeks is open for further objections to be submitted to An Bord Plenàla. Vivo Shell insists that the redevelopment plan is respectful and incorporates features to honor the victims.