Development plan · Mayo County Council
Mayo County Development Plan 2022–2028
The council's development plan written statement: its strategy, policies, objectives and development standards.
Mayo County Council · 2022–2028 · 165 pages
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- CHAPTER 11 CLIMATE ACTION & RENEWABLE ENERGY 208 209 CAO 6 To increase the resilience of Natural and Cultural Capital, as per Goal 3 of Climate Ready Mayo, by: a. Building awareness of Nature Based Adaptation Solutions and Green Infrastructure. b. Support biodiversity for its intrinsic value within the natural environment and its importance in climate change adaptation. c. Develop a database of impacts of climate change on Mayo’s Natural Environment. d. Identify Cultural and Heritage Sites vulnerable to climate change and develop adaptation and management policies. e. Encourage adaptation in Agriculture and Local Food Supply. CAO 7 To recognise, support and facilitate Ballina to become Ireland’s Greenest Town by 2025. CAO 8 To support and facilitate Westport to become Ireland’s first ‘15 Minute Town’ - a sustainable town where a modal shift towards sustainable transport is actively promoted and facilitated. 11.7 Renewable Energy 11.7.1 Renewable Energy The EU Renewable Energy Directive defines renewable energy as renewable non-fossil energy sources such as, but not limited to wind, solar, geothermal, wave, tidal, hydropower, bioenergy, landfill gas, sewage treatment plant gas, biogas and bio-char. Ireland has committed to generate at least 16% of all energy consumed by 2020 from renewable sources under the Directive, compared to 1990 levels. The EU’s Climate and Energy Framework 2030 has also increased the minimum energy target from renewable sources to at least 32% for Member States. Ireland currently has over 3,000 MW of installed renewable energy. The Climate Action Plan (2019) includes targets to increase the capacity of renewable energy in Ireland by four-fold. Ireland has a target of 70% of electricity sourced from renewables by 2030, comprising of up to 8.2 GW onshore wind, 3.5 GW offshore wind and up to 1.5GW of solar, with a view to having a net zero energy system by 2050. 11.7.2 National Energy Policy Ireland’s national energy policy is focused on three pillars: (1) sustainability, (2) security of supply and (3) competitiveness. Ireland must reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the energy sector by at least 80% by 2050, compared to 1990 levels, while at the same time ensuring security of supply of competitive energy sources to our citizens and businesses. The development of the Wind Energy Guidelines and the Renewable Electricity Development Plan will also facilitate informed decision- making in relation to onshore renewable energy infrastructure. Local Authorities must also be consistent with the following national plans, policies and strategies when considering proposals for renewable energy: • The National Renewable Energy Action Plan 2010 (Irish Government submission to the European Commission). • The Government’s Strategy for Renewable Energy 2012 – 2020 (DCENR). • The Government’s White Paper on Energy Policy - Ireland’s Transition to a Low Carbon Energy Future 2015-2030 (DCENR). • Interim Guidelines for Planning Authorities on Statutory Plans, Renewable Energy and Climate Change (July 2017). • Wind Energy Development Guidelines, Planning Guidelines (2006), as amended or replaced. • National Mitigation Plans (compliant with the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Act, 2015). 11.7.3 Mayo Context Mayo County Council is a leader in the development of renewable energy, with Ireland’s first commercial wind farm at Bellacorick, Co Mayo in 1992. The Council recognises that a safe, secure, sustainable and affordable supply of energy is of central importance to the economic and social wellbeing of County Mayo. Continued development of renewable energy sources in Mayo will help Ireland achieve our national targets. Mayo has an enormous wind resource with the potential to underpin an entire new economy in the county. The county generates 266MW (Q1 2020) from 15 wind farms, which is approximately 6% of Ireland’s overall wind energy production. The development of the extant permissions for wind and solar energy projects in the county will significantly add to Mayo’s renewable energy output. 11.7.4 County Mayo Renewable Energy Target The development of renewable energy sources is central to the overall energy policy in Ireland. The 2017 ‘Interim Guidelines for Planning Authorities on Statutory Plans, Renewable Energy and Climate Change’ requires local authorities to indicate how development plans will contribute to realising overall national targets on renewable energy. Research carried out on behalf of the Irish Wind Energy Association (IWEA) indicates that 400 square kilometres of suitable land is available for onshore wind energy in Mayo. This figure accounts for environmental sensitivities, grid connection potential, compliance with the wind energy guidelines and other relevant planning and infrastructural considerations. Current best practice in the wind energy industry would suggest that an area of 400 square kilometres can generate a maximum potential of 10,000 MW. In setting a realistic deliverable target for a county with a high wind potential like Mayo, a minimum target of 600MW over the plan period is considered achievable. The target would meet the energy demands of existing households in Mayo, as well as the proposed additional households for the county set out in the Core Strategy Table (Chapter 2). This renewable energy target for Mayo may need to be revised over the lifetime of the Plan to ensure alignment with the Northern and Western Regional Assembly’s forthcoming Renewable Energy Strategy. 11.7.5 Mayo Renewable Energy Strategy 2011-2020 The Mayo Renewable Energy Strategy (RES) 2011-2020 outlines the potential for County Mayo and how it can capitalise on a range of renewable resources, including onshore and offshore wind, wave and tidal energy, solar and other renewable energy forms. The RES acknowledges the significant contribution renewables can make to County Mayo, by providing more secure energy, reducing reliance on traditional fossil fuels, enabling future energy export and meeting energy targets. The strategy also identifies areas most suitable for renewable energy developments in a tier system. Mayo County Council will commence the review and update the Mayo Renewable Energy Strategy within one year of adopting this plan. 211210
- CHAPTER 11 CLIMATE ACTION & RENEWABLE ENERGY 210 211 11.7.6 Wind Energy Mayo County Council recognises the importance of onshore and offshore wind energy as a renewable energy source and its role in meeting Ireland’s national energy targets. The Council will endeavour to continue to facilitate wind energy projects that accord with the Mayo RES, the Landscape Appraisal of County Mayo and relevant Section 28 ministerial guidelines. The Council recognises that improvements are required in the existing transmission network to fully harness the County’s renewable energy potential. There is also real potential for Mayo to maximise the potential by-products that can be created using wind energy such as hydrogen, agricultural fertilizer and synthetic green fuels. The Plan supports maximizing the potential of accessing new, emerging by-product markets to advance the socio-economic growth of Mayo and to help transition to a low carbon county. Wind energy is Ireland’s largest and cheapest renewable electricity resource and is the second greatest source of electricity generation after natural gas. In 2018, wind energy provided 85% of Ireland’s renewable electricity and 30% of our total electricity demand. Mayo has a strong wind resource and a rich history of wind generation. In 1992, Ireland’s first commercial wind farm came into operation at Bellacorick. The capacity of the Oweninny wind farm at Bellacorick has recently been upgraded and will be further increased to 172MW, following completion of Oweninny Phase 2. The Oweninny wind farm will generate sufficient electricity to power around 100,000 households per annum. Mayo County Council recognises that community ownership of wind energy projects enables local communities to benefit directly from local wind energy resources being developed in their local areas, ensuring long-term income for rural communities. The Killala Community Wind Farm project in North Mayo involves a direct community investment in partnership with a private development company. The Killala Community Wind Farm, comprising of five turbines, generates 17MW of renewable power. The Council encourages community ownership of wind energy projects in Mayo. 11.7.7 Solar Energy Mayo County Council recognises the importance of solar energy as a renewable energy resource. Solar energy is any type of energy generated by the sun. There are a range of technologies available to exploit the benefits of the sun including solar panels, solar farms and solar energy storage facilities, all of which contribute to a reduction in energy demand. Solar technologies can be designed into buildings or retro fitted. The three basic approaches used to harness and gain maximum benefit of solar energy in buildings, include passive solar; active solar heating; and solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. Larger solar farms have potential to be built on agricultural land, whilst also accommodating the continued use of the land for grazing. These projects are much less visually intrusive than wind and some other forms of energy generation. Mayo County Council encourages community ownership of solar energy projects, for example the community-led solar project by Claremorris and Western District Energy Co-Op approved in Claremorris, which can generate sufficient renewable energy capable of meeting the town’s energy needs. 11.7.8 Hydro-electricity Mayo County Council encourages the use of rivers, where suitable, within the county for the development of hydro energy. For any such proposals, the Council will consult with the National Parks and Wildlife Section (NPWS) of the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht and Inland Fisheries Ireland, with regard to the impact of such proposals for the free passage of fish, salmonid qualities of the river and ecological impact of any sites of E.U. or national designation. 11.7.9 Tidal/Wave Energy Tidal stream technologies aim to capture the kinetic energy of the currents flowing in and out of the tidal areas. Since the relative positions of the sun and moon can be predicted with complete accuracy, so can the resultant tide. It is this predictability that makes tidal energy such a valuable resource. The best wave resources in Europe occur along the western seaboard of Ireland. The Atlantic Marine Energy Test Site (AMETS), off Annagh Head on the Mullet Peninsula, is being developed by Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) to carry out full-scale wave energy testing. It is envisaged that the renewable power energy generated at AMETS will be directed into the national grid. The test site is an integral component of Ireland’s Ocean Energy Strategy and is being developed in accordance with the national Offshore Renewable Energy Development Plan (OREDP). 11.7.10 Micro Renewable Energy Certain energy installations that qualify as being micro-generators constitute exempted development under planning legislation. These planning exemptions apply to residential scale and some commercial scale wind turbine, solar arrays, heat pumps and biomass boilers, subject to meeting certain conditions. The Council encourages small scale generation of heat and electricity by individuals, small businesses and communities to meet their own needs and as an alternative to or to supplement grid connected power. 11.7.11 Low Carbon District Heating District heating is one of the most efficient and cost-effective ways to heat apartments, homes and mixed-use developments. It involves delivering heat rather than fuel to buildings. District heating networks can be based on a variety of technologies and renewable energy sources, such as combined heat and power (CHP), geothermal or energy from waste. Such schemes work particularly well in built-up urban areas where there is a near constant demand. For the system to work, water is heated using a boiler located in a central heating plant. The heat is distributed to the individual houses via an underground network of insulated pipes. The water in the network is continually circulating and always available. Immersion heaters, boilers and hot water storage tanks are not required, which frees up space for other purposes. The use of a renewable energy solution to provide heating and hot water to houses and businesses contributes to improved sustainability, as it reduces demand for and consumption of energy while using a renewable form of fuel. 11.7.12 Other forms of Renewable Energy Sources Mayo County Council is fully supportive of all types of renewable energy resources and emerging technologies, all of which will help Mayo transition to a low carbon county. Some notable renewable resources include geothermal energy (from heat below the surface of the earth), biomass (wood, biodegradable waste and energy crops) and green hydrogen (electrical current to separate the hydrogen from the oxygen in water and can be use as transport fuel). 213212
- CHAPTER 11 CLIMATE ACTION & RENEWABLE ENERGY 212 213 Renewable Energy Policies REP 1 To support Ireland’s renewable energy commitments outlined in national policy by facilitating the development and exploitation of a range of renewable energy sources at suitable locations within the county, where such development does not have a negative impact on the surrounding environment (including water quality), landscape, biodiversity or local amenities to ensure the long-term sustainable growth of the county. REP 2 To support, within the context of the Offshore Renewable Energy Development Plan (OREDP) and its successors, the progressive development of Ireland’s offshore renewable energy potential, including domestic and international grid connectivity enhancements. REP 3 To actively encourage and support the sustainable development, renewal and maintenance of energy generation infrastructure in order to maintain a secure energy supply, while protecting the landscape, archaeological and built heritage and having regard to the provisions of the Habitats Directive. REP 4 To ensure that developers of proposed large-scale renewable energy projects carry out community consultation in accordance with best practice and commence the consultation at the initiation of project planning. REP 5 To promote the use of efficient energy storage systems and infrastructure that supports energy efficiency and renewable energy system optimisation, subject to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area and consideration of environmental and ecological sensitivities. REP 6 To work with relevant stakeholders and industry to establish Mayo as a centre of excellence for renewable energy research and development activities. REP 7 To promote the harnessing of wind energy to contribute toward decarbonising County Mayo, including new emerging by-product markets. Renewable Energy Objectives REO 1 To co-operate with the Northern and Western Regional Assembly in identifying Strategic Energy Zones as areas suitable for larger, energy generating projects, community and micro energy production, whilst ensuring environmental constraints and a regional landscape strategy are considered. REO 2 To examine options to ensure that community benefits are derived from renewable energy development in the County. REO 3 To encourage and facilitate, where possible, the production of energy from established and emerging renewable technologies. REO 4 To support and implement the recording and monitoring of renewable energy potential in the county in partnership with other stakeholders including the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI). REO 5 To support and work in partnership with local communities in the development of energy efficient and renewable energy projects. REO 6 To ensure all renewable energy proposal comply with the provisions of the Mayo County Council Renewable Energy Strategy 2011-2022 (or as updated). REO 7 To commence the review of the Mayo County Renewable Energy Strategy 2011-2022 within one year of adopting this plan and update as required in accordance with future legislative guidelines and consistency with the provisions of RPO 4.16 and RPO 5.2(b) of the RSES, 2020-2032. REO 8 To encourage the development of wind energy, in accordance with Government policy, and having regard to the Landscape Appraisal of County Mayo and the Wind Energy Development Guidelines (2006) and Mayo Renewable Energy Strategy, or any revisions there of or future guidelines, and ensure consistency with the provisions of RPO 4.16 and RPO 5.2(b) of the RSES (2020-2032). REO 9 To support Ireland’s renewable energy commitments outlined in national policy by promoting the development of solar energy. REO 10 To encourage solar energy in commercial and residential development, subject to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area and consideration of environmental and ecological sensitivities. REO 11 To ensure that solar farm development proposals in the vicinity of major road networks & transport nodes, such as Ireland West Airport Knock (15km Radius), do not create a traffic hazard or endanger aircraft safety by reason of glint and glare. REO 12 To support offshore and tidal renewable energy developments subject to environmental considerations and the protection of commercial fishing and the amenities of the surrounding areas in accordance with the OREDP, subject to proper planning and environmental considerations. REO 13 To recognise the important role of the Atlantic Marine Energy Test Site (AMETS) tidal wave test site off Beal an Mhuirthead (Belmullet). REO 14 To support the development of appropriate land-based infrastructure at suitable locations, in order to facilitate the transition between the land and sea necessary for off- shore renewable energy projects. REO 15 To facilitate large and smaller scale geothermal energy generating developments both standalone and in conjunction with other renewable energy projects. REO 16 To promote the use of geothermal heat pumps for space heating and cooling as well as water heating in domestic, commercial and recreational buildings. REO 17 To promote on-site wind/solar energy development or other emerging energy technologies, where energy generated is primarily required to meet the needs of households, communities, agriculture and other businesses to reduce their carbon emissions. REO 18 Support, promote and facilitate community energy-based initiatives such as the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland’s (SEAI) ‘Sustainable Community Energy’ scheme or similar community energy initiatives to help achieve low carbon communities. REO 19 To support Ireland’s renewable energy commitments outlined in national policy by promoting the use of district heating systems in new residential and commercial developments. REO 20 To consider using heat mapping to support developments which deliver energy efficiency and the recovery of energy that would otherwise be wasted. REO 21 To carry out a feasibility assessment for district heating in County Mayo and identify local waste heat sources or renewable energy sources. 215214
- CHAPTER 11 CLIMATE ACTION & RENEWABLE ENERGY 214 REO 22 To promote the use of efficient energy storage systems and infrastructure that supports energy efficiency and renewable energy system optimisation, in accordance with proper planning and sustainable development. REO 23 To support and facilitate the achievement of the minimum renewable energy target of 600MW for County Mayo over the plan, and to review/revise this target to ensure consistency with any future renewable energy strategies for the Northern and Western Region. 216
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- CHAPTER 12 SETTLEMENT CHAPTER 12 SETTLEMENT PLANS CHAPTER 12 SETTLEMENT 217 Chapter 12 Settlement Plans 12.1 Strategic Aim The strategic aim of this chapter is to create a network of attractive, liveable towns and villages in the County, with increased levels of population, employment activity and enhanced levels of amenity, which support a high quality of life and wellbeing, along with providing an alternative residential choice for those who may not wish to live in the rural countryside. Related UN Sustainable Development Goals Related NPF National Strategic Outcomes Related RSES Growth Ambitions CHAPTER 12 SETTLEMENT 216 MAYO COUNTY DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2022 - 2028 219218
- CHAPTER 12 SETTLEMENT 218 219 219 12.2 Settlement Hierarchy Overview The Core Strategy sets out the settlement hierarchy for the County, which is informed by the settlement hierarchy in the RSES; job-to-work ratio, asset capacity matrix and the role/function of settlements in County Mayo, in order to determine an overall growth strategy and its position on the settlement hierarchy. Settlement Type Settlements Role Tier I (a) Key Towns Ballina & Castlebar Large urban centres with a high level of jobs and services, with the capacity to act as significant economic growth drivers within the Mayo Catchment and wider region, including complementing the Galway Metropolitan Area and Sligo Regional Growth Centre. Tier I (b) Strategic Growth Town Westport Large urban centre with a high level of jobs and services, with the capacity to act as significant economic growth driver, in combination with its intrinsic links with Castle- bar, within the Mayo Catchment and wider region. Tier II Self- Sustaining Growth Towns Ballinrobe, Ballyhaunis, Béal an Mhuirthead (Belmullet), Claremorris & Swinford. Self-Sustaining Growth Towns with a moderate level of jobs and services and their own labour catchment areas. These towns have good transport links and have the capacity for continued sustainable growth. These towns play an important role in supporting the social, economic and cultural life within rural communities. Tier III Self- Sustaining Towns Balla, Charlestown, Crossmolina, Foxford, Killala, Kiltimagh, Knock, Louisburgh & Newport. Self-Sustaining Towns with low to moderate levels of population growth and a limited localised employment base and which are largely reliant on other areas for employment and/or services. These towns play an important role in supporting the social, economic and cultural life within rural communities. Tier IV Rural Settlements Ballindine, Ballycastle, Bangor Erris, Belcarra Bellavary, Bohola, Bunnyconnelan, Cong, Dumha Thuama (Doohoma), Gob An Choire (Achill Sound), Irishtown, Keel- Dooagh, Kilkelly, Kilmaine, Lahardane, Mulranny, Shrule & Turlough. Towns and villages with local service and limited employment functions, which play an important role in supporting the social, economic and cultural life within rural com munities. Table 12.1: Mayo Settlement Hierarchy Table 12.3 Settlement Plans Individual local area plans will be prepared for the Tier I towns of Ballina, Castlebar and Westport, as statutorily required under the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended). Settlement Plans have been prepared for all Tier II, Tier III, Tier IV and Tier V towns and villages. These plans align with the Core and Settlement Strategy (Chapter 2) and were informed by the asset capacity matrix and the principles set out in Thriving Towns and Villages as per Figure 12.1 below. Each settlement is defined by a development boundary, wherein development is generally encouraged in an orderly sequential manner outward from the core area, depending on the nature of development and the function of the settlement within the Settlement Hierarchy. This pattern of development will maximise the utility of existing and future infrastructure provision in a manner that promotes sustainability, active travel and makes more efficient use of underutilised lands. Figure 12.1 - Thriving Towns and Villages. Original Source - Plymouth Town Council 221220
- CHAPTER 12 SETTLEMENT 220 221 12.3.1 Land Use 12.3.1.1 Tier II Settlements Tier II towns adopt a conventional land use zoning approach for all lands within the settlement plan boundary. This formal zoning approach identifies lands to accommodate various categories of development, as set out in Table 12.2 (Land Use Zoning Objectives). Table 2.3 (Land-use Matrix) provides guidance on compatible land uses within land use zoning categories. In order to ensure the effective delivery of new housing targets for each settlement as set out in the Core Strategy, a greater quantity of lands is provided for proposed residential development outside of the defined town centre area. All such lands identified for residential purposes are zoned on serviceable lands. Town Centre Opportunity Sites have also been identified for Tier II towns to revitalise and repopulate town centre. These Opportunity Sites provide an indicative block framework for the future development of these lands and indicate appropriate development types and potential permeability pathways for pedestrians/cyclists and vehicles. It is envisaged that the 30% new household target within the town centre area (as set out in the Core Strategy), will generally be located within these lands. A Rural Transition zoning category is provided along the perimeter of each settlement plan. This zoning category accommodates agricultural compatible developments, including single rural houses. It offers an opportunity to build a rural-type house close to a settlement, wherein the distance to employment, schools, retail and other services is reduced, thereby contributing to a reduction of County Mayo’s carbon emissions. Land Use Zoning Objectives It is an objective of the Council to implement the following land use zoning objectives for lands in Tier II to V Towns and Villages: 1a. Agriculture To reserve land for agricultural and rural uses and to preserve the amenity of the town setting. 1b. Community Services/ Facilities To provide land for community and social facilities. 1c. Enterprise & Employment To provide land for light industrial and appropriate commercial development. 1d. Industry To provide land for industrial use and ancillary facilities. 1e. Infrastructure & Utilities To provide land for public infrastructure and public utilities. 1f. Recreation & Amenity To provide land for recreation and amenity purposes. 1g. Existing Residential To protect the amenity and character of existing residential areas. 1h. New Residential To provide for high quality new residential development and other services incidental to residential development. 1i. Rural Transition To act as a transitional area between the build-up area and the rural hinterland. This zoning facilitates agricultural compatible development and renewable energy, including single houses on a limited basis, subject to demonstrable economic or social need (Refer to Objective RHO 1). 1j. Strategic Residential Reserve Tier 1 To protect and safeguard suitable, undeveloped lands for future multiple residential developments. These lands are generally not developable during the lifetime of this plan for multiple residential developments. However, this position will be reviewed by the Planning Authority periodically over the lifetime of the plan to ensure housing growth targets are achieved (Refer to Core Strategy Table). Where it is apparent that ‘New Residential’ lands cannot or will not be developed within the plan period, residential development may be considered within Strategic Residential Reserve Tier I. Single houses shall only be considered on a limited basis, where it has been established that the lands in question do not adversely impact on the intended future use of these lands; form part of the overall family landholding and no other appropriately zoned lands are available within the plan boundary; and a demonstrable economic or social need has been established (Refer to Objective RHO 1). 1k. Strategic Residential Reserve Tier 2 To protect and safeguard undeveloped residentially suitable lands for future use. These lands are not developable during the lifetime of this plan. Single houses shall only be considered on a limited basis, where it is established that the lands in question are part of the overall family land holding and no other appropriately zoned lands are available within the plan boundary. 1l. Town centre (Inner and Outer) To maintain and enhance the vitality, viability and environment of the town centre and provide for appropriate town centre uses. 1m. Opportunity Sites To promote the sustainable consolidation of towns and villages, with a focus on vacant, underutilised, infill and brown-field sites, to provide appropriate uses, including the delivery of high-quality residential, commercial, employment uses, and the delivery of renewable energy uses. 1n. Self-Sustaining Consolidation Zoning (Tier III) To provide for, protect and strengthen the vitality and viability of Tier III Self-Sustaining towns, through consolidating development, and encouraging a mix of uses, including but not restricted to commercial, residential, industry, enterprise and employment, community, amenity, public realm enhancements, while maximising the use of land. 1o. Rural Settlements Consolidation Zoning (Tier IV) To provide for, protect and strengthen the vitality and viability of Tier IV Rural Settlements, through consolidating development, and encouraging an appropriate mix of uses commensurate with the character, capacity and connectivity of the rural village, including but not restricted to retail, commercial, residential, community, amenity, and public realm enhancements, while maximising the use of land. 1p. Rural Village Consolidation Zoning (Tier V) To provide for, protect and strengthen the vitality and viability of Tier V Rural Villages, through consolidating development, and encouraging an appropriate mix of uses commensurate with the character, capacity and connectivity of the rural village, including but not restricted to retail, commercial, residential, community, amenity, and public realm enhancements, while maximising the use of land. Table 12.2 Land Use Zoning Objectives for Settlement Plans 223222
- CHAPTER 12 SETTLEMENT 222 223 Land Use Zoning Matrix Land Use Zoning Uses Generally Permitted New Residential (≤20 units/Ha) Houses, apartments, retirement homes, care homes, medical services, public and community facilities, institutional uses, childcare facilities, places of worship, local shops, local services, leisure & recreation, open space; along with uses that are considered ancillary to the aforementioned uses. Local and home offices may be acceptable, provided that there is no detrimental impact on residential amenity or traffic and that the use does not prejudice the primary use of the town centre for office use. All proposals that would be detrimental to established or future residential amenity will not be permitted. These include industrial and warehousing and uses generating significant levels of traffic, noise and other nuisance. Existing Residential Permitted in principle uses include residential, sheltered Housing, B&B/guest house, community facility/centre, home based economic activities and utilities. Open to Consideration uses include but not limited to bring banks, convenience outlet, childcare facility, halting site, sheltered housing, healthcare practitioner, leisure/recreation/sports facilities, bar, retirement home/residential institution/ retirement village, and veterinary surgery. Strategic Residential Reserve Tier I and II Future residential lands, not generally developable in the lifetime of the plan for multiple residential development schemes (see land use zoning objectives for Strategic Residential Reserve Tiers I & II). Temporary uses and single houses will be considered on their individual merits, subject to the use not adversely impacting on the intended future use of these lands to accommodate future population/housing targets in subsequent plans. Single houses will be considered on a limited basis, where it is established that the lands in question are part of the overall family land holding, no other appropriately zoned lands are available within the plan boundary and a demonstrable economic or social need has been established (Objective RHO 1). Town Centre Shops (including supermarkets), off-licenses, offices, civic and public buildings, places of worship, public houses, hotels, restaurants, indoor leisure, car parks, apartments, houses, community facilities, parks and open spaces and retirement homes; along with uses that are considered ancillary to the aforementioned uses. Uses that would be detrimental to the vitality and amenity of the town centre, such as industrial uses, will not normally be permitted. Town Centre Opportunity Sites Residential High Density (≤35 units/Ha) Residential and appropriate mixed use, community, amenity and public realm or other uses generally considered acceptable in town centre locations. Uses that would be detrimental to the vitality and amenity of the town centre, such as industrial uses, will not normally be permitted. Opportunity Sites To provide for residential and appropriate mixed use, community, nursing homes, amenity and other uses generally considered acceptable by reason of location and context. Opportunity Site (Claremorris): To provide for the production of electricity by renewable energy technologies, incorporating wood Biomass only. To provide for a mix of industries (with no production of wood chip or wood pellets on this site) or research and development facilities where it is established that there is a need to locate such uses, within, adjacent or in close proximity to the primary user of the site (i.e. for the production of electricity from renewable energy technologies, incorporating wood Biomass only) or where it is established that there is insufficient appropriately zoned lands to facilitate such uses. Enterprise & Employment Light Industry, Warehousing (retail and non‐retail), Major Offices, Business and Technology Units, Specialist Offices, R&D enterprises, car showrooms, light engineering works, wholesale and trade outlets, public utilities, petrol filling stations, builders providers, repair garages, civic amenity centres, agriculture outlets, distribution depots, heavy vehicle parks, workshops, tourism related development; along with uses that are considered ancillary to the aforementioned uses. Extensions to existing retail premises will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Uses that would prejudice the primacy of town centre or would undermine the objectives of other land use zoning will not be permitted. Industry Industry, Light Industry, Heavy Engineering Works, Warehousing (non-retail), Business & Technology Units, R&D Enterprises; along with uses considered ancillary to the aforementioned uses. Uses that would prejudice the primary industrial function of this zoning or would undermine the objectives of other zoning will not be permitted. These include residential and retail uses. Infrastructure & Utilities Public utilities infrastructure, public and civic facilities and public infrastructure, along with uses considered ancillary to the aforementioned uses. Recreation & Amenity Outdoor sport and recreation, buildings associated with outdoor sport and recreation and ancillary uses, parks, open space, camp sites, agriculture, allotments; along with uses that are considered ancillary to the aforementioned uses. Temporary markets and exhibitions may be permitted. Community Service/ Facilities Schools and education, places of worship, community centres, health centres, leisure and recreation, retirement/nursing homes, libraries, cemeteries, open space, childcare facilities, public and civic facilities; along with uses that are considered ancillary to the aforementioned uses. Rural Transition Agriculture, renewable energy, open space, public utilities, outdoor, recreation, camp sites, allotments and cemeteries; along with uses that are considered ancillary to the aforementioned uses. New houses will be considered in this zone on their individual merits. Agriculture Agriculture, renewable energy, open space, public utilities, outdoor, recreation, retirement/nursing homes, camp sites, allotments and cemeteries; along with uses that are considered ancillary to the aforementioned uses. New houses will only be permitted in this zone to applicants with demonstrable economic or social need to live in these areas. Table 12.3: Land Use Matrix for Tier II Settlement Plans 225224
- CHAPTER 12 SETTLEMENT 224 225 Advise Note: Where a use is proposed that is not listed in the matrix, development proposals will be assessed on their individual merits in accordance with the general guidance provided by the matrix and having regard the principles of proper planning and sustainable development of the area and compliance with the relevant policies and objectives (including land use zoning objectives), standards and requirements as set out in the Plan. 12.3.1.2 Tier III, IV and V Towns and Villages All Tier III, IV and V towns and villages adopt a single category consolidation land use zoning. This flexible zoning approach provides for a mix of development types that supports the sustainable consolidated growth of these rural towns and villages. All proposals must be compatible with existing adjoining land uses, the character of the area and should also encourage Active Travel. Opportunity Sites have also been identified for Tier III towns. These sites are located within or close to the core of each settlement and seek to guide residential development in a manner that revitalises and repopulates town centres. 12.3.1.3 Tier II and Tier III Settlements The general policies and objectives for Tier II and Tier III settlements Plan are set out below. The settlement plans provide information on each Self-Sustaining Growth Towns (Tier II) and Self-Sustaining Towns (Tier III) developed from the asset capacity matrix and the principles of Thriving Towns and Villages (Figure 12.1). A conventional zoning map is provided for each Tier II town (Refer to Volume III - Book of Maps), along with identification of town centre opportunity sites, followed by town specific policies and objectives. A single category mixed-use zoning map is provided for each Tier III town, along with identification of opportunity sites, followed by town specific policies and objectives. General Tier II and III Settlement Policies GSP 1 To support and promote commensurate population, service and employment growth, to enable the Tiers II and III settlements to fulfil their role as a self-sustaining growth towns and self-sustaining towns, respectively. GSP 2 To support and encourage the development/redevelopment of identified Town Centre Opportunity Sites in Tier II and Tier III settlements. GSP 3 To support the provision of mixed-use developments in the town centre which create opportunities to live, work, shop, etc., within the town and reduce the propensity to travel by private car. GSP 4 To encourage re-development of all derelict buildings within all settlement plan areas listed on the Derelict Sites Register. GSP 5 To support and promote the re-use and regeneration of derelict land and other buildings in town centre areas for retail and other appropriate uses with due cognisance to the Sequential Approach prescribed in the retail planning guidelines 2012 or amended or superseding guidelines. GSP 6 To encourage the appropriate use of unoccupied/derelict buildings in the town for start-up businesses and community facilities. GSP 7 To co-operate with relevant agencies to secure improvements to the public transport system serving Tier II and III settlement towns and to support initiatives designed to improve bus interchange facilities. GSP 8 To support the establishment of green routes and an accessible walking / cycling network throughout the settlement plan areas and surrounding areas that provides safe and attractive circulation routes for pedestrians and cyclists for the enjoyment and recreational use of the entire community by linking residential areas, community facilities, amenities and the town centre. GSP 9 To support and encourage Irish Water in increasing the provision of adequate wastewater and water infrastructure, to ensure that services are delivered in line with the further development and growth of settlements. GSP 10 To support and encourage key stakeholders/providers in increasing the provision of adequate key physical infrastructure (i.e. transportation, parking, communications, energy etc.) and to support the provision of key social infrastructure (health care services, education facilities, burial grounds, fire and emergency services, recreational, cultural facilities etc.) in Tier II and Tier III settlements. General Tier II and III Settlement Objectives GSO 1 To ensure appropriate development occurs in a sequential manner outward from the core area, to maximise the utility of existing and future infrastructure provision, to promote sustainability and active travel, to make more efficient use of underutilised lands, and to avoid the inappropriate extension of services and utilities. GSO 2 To encourage and facilitate the development of the economic and tourism potential of towns in a manner that respects, builds on, protects and enhances the cultural, built heritage, natural heritage and local amenities of the town. GSO 3 To ensure that the town centre is accessible to all members of the community, including people with mobility issues, the elderly and people with young children. GSO 4 To work with Irish Water and landowners on the “New Homes in Small Towns and Villages” initiative to augment the delivery of actions by Local Authorities, Irish Water, communities and other stakeholders in the provision of services and serviced sites to create “build your own home” opportunities within the existing footprint of settlements, to meet housing demand. GSO 5 To require proposals for new development to integrate with existing Green Infrastructure networks and contribute to the development and protection of overall Green Infrastructure assets. GSO 6 To use active land management measures, such as the Vacant Site Levy (Urban Regeneration and Housing Act 2015, as amended) and Derelict Site Levy (The Derelict Sites Act 1990 (as amended)), to ensure the delivery of the projected housing units in the identified Town Centre Opportunity Sites and residential zoned lands in Tier II Self- Sustaining Growth Towns, as set out in the Core Strategy or any subsequent Town Centre Opportunity Sites identified over the lifetime of the plan. GSO 7 To promote and facilitate the delivery of multiple residential development in the identified Opportunity Sites for Tier III Self-Sustaining Towns or any subsequent Opportunity Sites identified over the lifetime of the plan. GSO 8 To ensure applications for development within the settlement boundaries on lands identified as flood risk areas including benefitting lands, shall be subject to a Specific Flood Risk Assessment and Justification Test, in accordance with the Planning System and Flood Risk Management – Guidelines for Planning Authorities, 2009 or any superseding guidelines and circulars. 227226
Source Mayo County Council: Mayo County Development Plan 2022–2028 (2022–2028) · Licence the publisher's termsText read from the publisher’s PDF; tables, maps and drawings do not survive as text, and page numbers are the PDF’s (its first page is 1). Check the original before relying on a passage.