The Burren
In 2000 An Bord Pleanála confirmed the ruling by the Clare County Council to refuse planning permission for the scaled down version. The Burren Action Group and An Taisce welcomed this decision. An Bord Pleanála argued that the centre would have involved unacceptable damage to the environment and to the fragile local ecology and would have detracted from the scenery and rural character of the area. However, supporters of the scheme argued that a focal point for tourism in the Burren National Park would still be needed, as it would stop visitors from entering private lands.