Intel extension ‘could create thousands of jobs’

It has been reported that An Bord Pleanála has granted permission for a crucial 40-acre expansion at Intel in Leixlip, which it is hoped could create thousands of jobs. Kildare County Council approved the 162,000 square metre development last year, but it was appealed to the National Planning Authority.

An Bord Pleanála’s decision gives Intel Ireland the final step in its bid to be selected as one of the three locations to build the next generation of chips.

Speaking to Kildare FM, Labour TD Emmet Stagg said that Leixlip’s bid to win that contract has been strengthened, in a move that has the potential to create thousands of jobs.

“They’re competing with Arizona, Oregon and Israel for that,” he said. “They have planning permission and are ready to go.

“This is a major plus in that battle – 4,500 people working there at the moment, there would be a lot more people working there permanently, if this were to come about.

“Some people have given figures of 15,000. Now I’m not sure how accurate that is, but certainly 40 acres of buildings would house a lot of workers.”