Construction of 167 houses on hold following safety concerns from community

A planning application for the construction of 167 residential dwellings in Gracedieu has been brought to An Coimisiún Pleanála, following concerns expressed by locals living in the area.

The plans consist of constructing 105 houses, 30 apartments and 32 duplex apartments.

Also planned is a creche and retail floorspace.

The planning application submitted by Kingscroft Developments Limited received backlash from local residents and community groups.

Hill Residents Association submitted a formal objection to the proposed development, voicing concerns over residential security, infrastructure strain and environmental threat to protected species.

“The absence of a formidable boundary wall between the development site and the rear gardens of Oak Drive and Pinewood Drive creates an immediate security risk for trespass and illicit gatherings” the group’s submission states.

Cllr Joe Kelly also made a submission, saying he has “several serious concerns.” 

He reiterated the call to include a solid boundary wall to ensure ‘safety, security and privacy of the residents along Oak Drive and Pinewood Drive.’ 

The residents group representing Gracedieu also made a submission to the Council regarding the proposed development.

The group emphasised that they only object to the construction of apartments.

“There is no commercial demand for apartments in this locality which surely is best highlighted by the failure of the Mount Suir Apartment scheme on many fronts. Mount Suir was not commercially viable, had few owner occupiers, had commercial shop units converted into residential studio apartments and was bailed out by WCCC. What is to say the same will not happen to these two apartment blocks” the submission said.

The case is due to be decided by An Coimisiun Pleanala by December 1.

(Funded by the Local Democracy Scheme)