Challenge against environmental impact assessment screening decision regarding urban development project is dismissed

The High Court has dismissed a challenge against a decision by the planning authority regarding the environmental impact assessment (EIA) screening for an urban development project. The court found that the planning authority had sufficient information to reasonably exclude the likelihood of significant environmental effects, even without certain details and further surveys. The court emphasised that the planning authority's evaluative judgments are entitled to deference, particularly in the absence of contrary expert views. The decision was found not to be irrational or fundamentally at variance with reason and common sense. The court also noted that conditions imposed by the planning authority, including a final Construction Environmental Management Plan, were legally sound and would ensure appropriate mitigation measures for noise, dust, vibration, and surface water run-off.