Dublin Airport’s expansion plans have encountered significant setbacks, leading to a spike in construction costs. DAA’s Chief Executive, Kenny Jacobs, announced that planning delays have added “tens of millions” to the overall build expenses.
In a LinkedIn post, Mr Jacobs highlighted the impact of delayed or overturned planning decisions on Dublin Airport’s projects, citing the expanded US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) facilities as a prime example. The refusal by Fingal County Council necessitated an appeal to An Bord Pleanála, resulting in a two-year delay and an additional €5 million in costs, which subsequently postponed other initiatives.
This development follows An Bord Pleanála’s recent decision to approve the expansion of the US Customs Pre-Clearance and Border Protection facility, reversing Fingal County Council’s previous refusal. The council had initially denied permission, citing the absence of a detailed road network plan for the area. The appeals board, however, acknowledged that the expansion would bolster Dublin Airport’s status as a secondary hub, enhancing international connectivity and competitiveness.
In his post, Mr Jacobs expressed frustration over the slow planning process, which he believes is detrimental to Irish jobs, tourism, and the economy. He criticised Fingal County Council for their handling of various planning issues, including the demolition of the T1 car park spirals and staff car park upgrades.
“DAA respects planning,” he stated, “but these delayed or overturned decisions waste time and have so far added tens of millions of euro in unnecessary build costs. We want to proceed, build, deliver, and transform Dublin Airport into a world-class hub.”
Fingal County Council declined to comment on Jacobs’s remarks. However, they recently expressed dissatisfaction with DAA’s objections to their request for further information on a separate airport project. The council argued that DAA’s approach could undermine the integrity of the statutory planning process.
The expanded CBP facility plans were initially filed by DAA in May 2023 to address congestion issues. These facilities at Dublin and Shannon airports enable US-bound passengers to complete all necessary inspections before departure.
