Planning Permission Refused for 97-Home Proposal in Limerick by An Coimisiún Pleanála
Concerns over environmental impact and local objections have led to An Coimisiún Pleanála overturning planning permission for a large housing scheme in Limerick.
Permission for the construction of 97 homes in the Raheen area of Limerick, initially granted by Limerick City and County Council, has been refused by An Coimisiún Pleanála. The development by Rockspring Developments included 54 three-bedroom houses, four four-bedroom houses, and 38 apartments ranging from one to two bedrooms. This planning permission revocation is a significant event in the local housing development scene.
Several objections were raised against the housing scheme approval. The Grange Residents Association expressed fears regarding increased traffic and potential anti-social behaviour following the connection of the new development to their estate via pedestrian and cycle links. Other objectors highlighted that the apartment blocks were out of character for the Raheen and Dooradoyle areas, which they described as already saturated with residential developments. There were also concerns about the possible negative impact on the nearby Loughmore Canal and on environmentally protected sites in the locality.
The crucial factor cited by An Coimisiún Pleanála in refusing the permission was the potential adverse impact on local environmentally protected areas. Although the commission accepted the principle of housing development on the site, they insisted on necessary safeguards to protect the area’s environmental and historical assets. This decision underlines the importance of compliance with regulations related to environmental impact and avoiding material contravention of regional planning policies.
This refusal aligns with the commission’s increased scrutiny over flood-risk development and other sensitive projects, especially those close to protected sites or that might exacerbate local infrastructure pressures. The case highlights how An Coimisiún Pleanála acts as a vital authority in balancing development needs with sustainable planning and environmental protection.
Local developers and stakeholders will need to reconsider their proposals in light of the commission’s concerns, possibly redesigning the project to address the objections and environmental safeguards before seeking future approval.
Originally reported in Limerick Leader on Fri, 31 Oct 2025 08:14:24 +0000. Full story
