Opponents of the proposed development of Lough Muckno regional park in Co Monaghan were taking their case to the High Court today in the latest stage in one of Ireland's longest-running planning disputes.
Permission to build 51 houses near the lake shore of the park was granted almost seven years ago, but protesters are hoping that the development will today be ruled invalid.
The scenic 900-acre lake and 80 acres of surrounding land were expected to be a money-spinning venture when the park was opened in 1981.
But by the mid-1990s the park was steeped in debt and costing Co Monaghan Council €250,000 a year to run.
The land was leased to London-based developer Harinbrook Properties Ltd who subsequently applied for planning permission to build the holiday homes in the park.
Locals began to object when the homes were offered for sale to private buyers, and the council is now fighting to evict the company for non-compliance with its lease.
Harinbrook is claiming millions of euros in compensation from the local authority.
The High Court is expected to rule on the validity of the planning permission for the 51 homes.
PA