Iarnród Éireann is set to formally submit its planning permission application for a major transformation of Rosslare Europort in Co Wexford.
The plans propose an almost doubling in size of the existing port and the construction of a landmark facility that will allow for the development of Ireland's offshore wind energy industry.
The project will also deepen the access channel to the port and create additional port capacity, meaning larger vessels will be able to call to Rosslare that cannot currently.
Iarnród Éireann, the port authority for Rosslare Europort, said the €220m development will support the country in achieving its renewable energy targets, creating 2,000 long-term jobs for the southeast region in the process.
The facility will allow for the construction, operation and maintenance of the components needed for the development of offshore wind farms in the Irish and Celtic seas.
Iarnród Éireann said its plans are a blueprint for the State's largest ever purpose-built port facility dedicated to offshore renewable energy.
The plans, which have long been mooted, were officially announced by Iarnród Éireann last week and will be formally lodged with An Coimisiún Pleanála today.
Subject to planning being granted and funding allocated, Iarnród Éireann aims to commence construction in early 2027, with delivery targeted for early 2029.
The proposed Rosslare Offshore Renewable Energy Hub will span 80 hectares and include two new berths specifically designed for handling the largest components used in the construction of wind turbines.
The planned works include widening and deepening the port's approach channel alongside the reclamation of 27.7 hectares of land from the sea, including the creation of almost 20 hectares of new port lands.
The project will also include the construction of extensive areas for storage, marshalling and assembly as well as a new small boat harbour, including new access roads, utilities, environmental enhancements and facilities for local marine users.
The project also contains plans for an operations and maintenance facility.
Director of Commercial Business Units with Iarnród Éireann has said the submission of the planning application marks a "significant milestone" for not only the south east but for Ireland as a whole.
Glenn Carr said: "Today, we seek to develop the port infrastructure necessary to support wind farms of the Irish and Celtic seas and deliver this €220m development which will create 2,000 jobs for the region.
"This critical piece of national infrastructure will not only support the country’s renewable energy transition but also deliver on national and EU policy priorities."
There is a website with more information about the project, with all documentation due to be available to be inspected from this day next week.
Submissions or observations can be made to An Coimisiún Pleanála until 24 February next year.
