In recent weeks planning permission was sought by SSE Airtricity to begin the process of removing the old heavy oil producing power plant located on Great Island Co Wexford.

The decommissioned power station had long been a thorn in the side of Cheekpoint residents, Co Waterford, due to the noise that emanated from the plant. In recent years this has been added to with the construction of a new gas-fired power station adjoining the old site. However, the plans to remove the old plant and its 300-foot chimneys were not met with widespread support. Many in the community expressed a wish to see the chimneys retained. Foremost in the critics of the plan was noted historian Julian Walton who pointed out the heritage value. The local development group had pointed out the similar plans for the Dublin-based poolbeg chimneys had led to a successful national campaign for their retention.

Locals on both the Waterford and Wexford sides however, were taken aback when workers moved in on the site this week and already one chimney has been knocked with the assistance of explosives. No damage was caused locally, but it is understood that some windows were blown in at Great Island, Ballykerough and Campile.

Speaking on behalf of Cheekpoint residents Paddy Lebowski expressed the disgust felt by many at this sneaky act of architectural vandalism.

Local artist baker, the Cake Dame was also impacted, as she had the devil’s own job in keeping the dust out of her baking this weekend. Despite the challenges posed, Julie sold out of product in record time.

Not everyone is disappointed however, the new pub and restaurant at The Suir Inn has done a booming trade in onlookers, anxious to wash the dust-out of their pipes and have a perfect view of proceedings. No one knows when the next chimney will be blown, so today on April 1st, large crowds are expected at the pub again

Thanks to Sean O Briain for technical assistance with the aerial shot used