Drogheda could see its population increase by one third if developers get permission to construct a massive new development on the edge of the town.
Meath councillors from the eastern part of the county were briefed today by planning consultants on the proposal.
Ten landowners in the area have come together to fund the consultants who, in turn, are working at the direction of Meath County Council.
At today's briefing, the consultants said the 146-hectare site, southeast of the town, could be developed in two phases. They estimated it could provide homes for 12,000 people, with work on phase one starting after 2006.
There would have to be substantial infrastructural development in the area, including work on a local river to prevent flooding.
The land has already been earmarked by Meath County Council for development. However, it has yet to be zoned to allow the project to proceed.
