Farmer wants residential land rezoned for agriculture

A farmer from Dunmore, County Galway, has obtained High Court permission to challenge the residential zoning of his lands under the Residential Zoned Land Tax. Michael Knightly is seeking to quash the zoning decision imposed by Galway County Council and is pursuing proceedings against the Council, the Revenue Commissioners, Ireland, and the Attorney General. Mr Knightly contends that the zoning decision failed to consider reasonable matters, constituted disproportionate interference, and breached fair procedures, EU directives, climate policy, and Constitutional justice. He submits that the tax imposed as a result could necessitate the sale of his lands, interfering with his livelihood. Mr Knightly has actively farmed the land for two decades and receives agricultural payments and participates in environmental protection schemes. Galway County Council stated the lands occupy a strategic location suitable for immediate development to support housing needs and compact urban growth. The Council noted that rezoning to agriculture would conflict with its development plan. Mr Knightly's legal team, instructed by Ballyhaunis-based solicitors, argue the decision conflicts with EU farm sustainability regulations and climate obligations.