In the preliminary ruling, announced yesterday, the Court ruled in favour of the anti-drilling platform and consequently suspended the effectiveness of the TUPEM license, a private permit for the use of maritime space.

In addition, the Court called on “the parties concerned not to proceed with any work”.

The ENI / GALP consortium can appeal, but prospecting for now is off limits.

PALP said the decision “is not the end of the fight, but it's a major battle won”.

Drilling was due to commence next month.