An Bord Pleanála (ABP) has recently confirmed the planning approval for a significant housing project in Clonconane, situated on the outskirts of Limerick City. The decision, initially granted to Riverpoint Construction for a development comprising 99 houses, faced appeals from concerned parties regarding various aspects of the project. Following a thorough review, ABP has upheld the planning permission with revised conditions, marking a pivotal advancement in the construction landscape of the area.
The original planning permission granted to Riverpoint Construction included the construction of 99 residential units, encompassing a mix of house types such as four-bedroom semi-detached houses, three-bedroom semi-detached homes, end-of-terrace units, mid-terrace units, and apartments in a three-storey block.
Challenges arose as three local residents raised objections concerning privacy, the need for a crèche to address childcare demands, and the handling of their initial concerns by the local council during the planning application process.
An Bord Pleanála deliberated on the appeals and has now affirmed the planning decision with certain revised conditions to address the raised issues effectively.
Revised Conditions and Project Details:
ABP has stipulated that only 75 units can be occupied until the developer establishes a crèche within the development, responding to the community’s childcare needs.
Additional conditions cover the timing of construction activities on-site, provisions for electric vehicle parking spaces, and the implementation of appropriate landscaping measures.
Despite recommendations to omit the apartment block from the project, the 12 apartments will remain as part of the development, as decided by the board.
Riverpoint Construction, having previously secured permission for 250 houses from the local council, now has approval for a total of 349 units, reflecting an expansion of the original proposal.
The approved development forms part of a broader masterplan for the site, with the developer having submitted several planning applications to Limerick City and County Council, signifying a strategic approach to urban development.
The decision by ABP to uphold the planning permission underscores a significant milestone in the progression of the housing project, balancing community concerns with the necessity for residential growth in the region.
As the construction unfolds, the integration of key amenities like a crèche and sustainable infrastructure elements aligns with the evolving needs of the Clonconane area, fostering a well-rounded living environment for residents.
