Mayo County Development Plan 2022–2028

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   CHAPTER 12 SETTLEMENT 266 267 12.11.3 Function and Vision Crossmolina is situated within the Ballina Municipal District. The town functions primarily as a service town and provides a range of services and facilities to meet the needs of the local population. Crossmolina provides important local level retailing, social and leisure functions to the wider hinterland. The vision for Crossmolina is to enhance the level of jobs, services and residential development, through consolidated growth within the existing urban footprint. This will involve supporting regeneration of existing vacant buildings and under-utilised sites, to provide residential, local services and employment opportunities. In addition, the plan supports measures to visually enhance the public realm, the historic character and the setting of Crossmolina. 12.11.4 Economic Development The main employment sector in Crossmolina is the service sector, in particular retail outlets. The town is well served in terms of convenience and comparison shopping, with two medium sized supermarkets located on the eastern and western sides of the River Deel. These are supplemented by a number of independent traders. Opportunities exist for the town to enhance its retail offering. In this regard, Mayo County Council will look favourably upon the re-use of existing vacant buildings in the town core for local level convenience and comparison shopping, including tourism/niche comparison outlets. 12.11.5 Social Infrastructure Community services within and close to Crossmolina include a national school, two secondary schools. St. Tiernan’s College also provides adult education courses in the form of PLCs. Other services available in the town include a town hall, library, childcare facilities, playground, banks, post office, medical centre, tourist office, garda station and sporting and recreational facilities. In recent years there have been a number of positive developments in the town, including a new MUGA and the creation of a linear park and boardwalk along the banks of the Deel, in the town centre. There is community- built light industrial units located in proximity to the Ballina Road, one of which is currently occupied by the Real Deel Craft Brewery, a brand which is gradually raising the national profile of Crossmolina. 12.11.6 Physical Infrastructure Crossmolina is served by the N59 and R315 road network, which directly connects the town to the large urban centres of Ballina and Castlebar. It is served by an existing municipal wastewater treatment plant (3,150PE) and a water supply from the Lough Conn and Tobermore Well and there is sufficient capacity in this infrastructure to accommodate additional population increases in the town over the plan period. The town has high speed broadband and has been selected as a location for the provision of free outdoor public Wi-Fi hotspots under the European Commission Wifi4EU scheme. This will provide free Wi-Fi for visitors and residents in the town and hinterland, helping to bring about a digitally connected Mayo. In recent times Crossmolina has come to national attention due to incidences of flooding and a Flood Relief Scheme by the OPW is currently planned for the town and will be constructed over the lifetime of the plan. 12.11.7 Heritage and Tourism There are two protected structures in Crossmolina, namely St. Tiernan’s Church and the Church of Ireland. There are many more historic structures which contribute to the sense of place and character of the town. The town also has a rich industrial heritage as a result of its links with the former Bord na Mona peat fuelled power plant at Bellacorrick. The built heritage in the town constitutes a valuable tourist resource. In terms of natural heritage, Mayo County Council have identified Local Biodiversity Areas within the plan area of the town and have set out a strategy for management of biodiversity at a local level. The new a linear park and boardwalk along the banks of the Deel is an important, local amenity. In terms of tourism, owing to its strategic location on the River Deel, proximity to Lough Conn, the Nephin Beg Mountain range, and the Erris Peninsula, Crossmolina has considerable potential for tourism development. 12.11.8 Sustainable Communities The compact form of the centre of Crossmolina combined with the range of retail, commercial and leisure services provided within this core, offers opportunities to accommodate the future needs of the town in a consolidated fashion. The delivery of sustainable communities will involve the re-use and regeneration of derelict and vacant buildings within the town centre and the provision of a mix of housing types and densities of high-quality design on infill and brownfield sites, moving out from the centre. Provision is made for the identification and provision of serviced sites within the town to provide opportunities for people to build their own home. Mayo County Council supports community-led programmes, including the Crossmolina Community Action Plan (2015-2020 or any superseding version), to help meet the needs of the town and contribute to a low carbon energy efficient Crossmolina, such as community renewable energy projects, energy efficiency projects and increased usage of sustainable forms of transport. A public smart lighting and energy efficient programme was implemented in Crossmolina, through Mayo County Council and Sustainable Energy Authority Ireland, in recent years. One such project included making the Civic Centre on Mullenmore street an energy efficient building. 12.11.9 Placemaking and Regeneration Enhancement works to the public realm in the core area of Crossmolina have the potential to contribute to the revitalisation of the core area and to provide social and environmental benefits to the local community and visitors. This is combined with policies to promote the reuse of existing derelict and vacant buildings for residential and/or commercial purposes, particularly on Mullenmore Street and Erris Street, and the identification of opportunity sites within or close to the town core, capable of accommodating residential developments of a suitable scale and density. 269268

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   CHAPTER 12 SETTLEMENT 268 269 12.11.10 Opportunity Sites Four Opportunity Sites have been identified for Crossmolina (Refer to Map): Opportunity Site 1 Located to the rear (south) of the properties on Ballina Street and to the rear (east) of existing properties on Mullinmore Street. Opportunity Site 2 Located opposite St Tiernan’s College (secondary School), at the southern end of Mullinmore Street. Opportunity Site 3 An infill site located along “The Boreen” to the west of the Deel River. Opportunity Site 4 Lands off The Boreen adjoining Erris Street properties to the North. These opportunity sites have been identified in Crossmolina for residential purposes to further contribute to the rejuvenation and revitalisation close to and within the town centre. Site selection accounted for the avoidance flooding issues that currently impact the settlement and availability of services. Proposals for development within the opportunity sites should be accompanied by a site brief and should comply with national guidelines that seek to achieve sustainable compact development and to integrate principles of good urban design and placemaking. Crossmolina Settlement Plan Policies CRP 1 To investigate proposals for the enhancement of the public realm within the town core. CRP 2 To support community-led developments, where appropriate, including the implementation of the Community Futures Action Plan for Crossmolina (2015-2020) or any amended or superseding Community Futures Plan for the town. Crossmolina Settlement Plan Objectives CRO 1 To retain and enhance the distinctive character and layout of Crossmolina town, which reflects the historical street pattern of growth since the early nineteenth century configuration and to promote this as part of the town’s unique identity. CRO 2 To investigate the possible designation of built-up areas of special interest and importance in the town, such as an Architectural Conservation Areas (ACA). CRO 3 To support the local community in exploring the creation of a Cultural and Heritage Centre in the town, as resources permit. CRO 4 To support and facilitate the full implementation of the Office of Public Work’s Flood Relief Scheme for Crossmolina. CRO 5 To sustain, enhance and consolidate the retail and services offer within the core areas of Crossmolina and harness and develop the potential of heritage and tourism assets. CRO 6 To encourage and facilitate the re-use and regeneration of derelict land and buildings for retail and other town centre uses with due cognisance to the Sequential Approach prescribed in the Retail Planning Guidelines 2012. CRO 7 To support and facilitate the development of the four identified Opportunity Sites in Crossmolina for residential development, as outlined in Section 12.11.10 (Refer to Map). 12.12 Foxford (Tier III) 12.12.1 Location and Context Foxford is located in north-east Mayo, at the intersection of the N26 and N58 national routes, on the River Moy, approximately 16 km south of Ballina. Foxford is the 8th largest settlement in Mayo and the population of the town has significantly increased (39.3%) over the last twenty years, from 944 persons in 1996 (Census figures) to 1,315 persons in 2016 (Census figures). 12.12.2 History and Settlement Form Foxford is located on the site of an ancient settlement that grew around a crossing point on the River Moy. The current town dates from 1683 when John Bingham, MP for Mayo, first took out a patent for 4 fairs and a market for a new plantation of English and Scottish settlers, on the east bank of the river. This is reflected in the existing settlement form, with the town centre and commercial core located on the eastern side of the river while, west of the river is almost exclusively residential in nature. Historically Foxford is renowned as the birthplace of Admiral William Browne (1777-1859). Admiral Brown founded the Argentinian Navy and there is an exhibition centre dedicated to his life and achievements in the town today. The modern town of Foxford is inextricably linked with and shaped by the fortunes of the Providence Woollen Mills. The Woollen Mills were the principal employer and a significant contributor to the built form, social activity and cultural aspects in the town, from the late 19th to the late 20th century. The development of the town beyond the core area in modern times has extended along the main approach roads, with housing developments located along the Ballina Road, the Swinford Road and the R318 local road, leading to the Train Station. The opening of an inner-relief road in the 2002, connecting the Swinford Road to the southern section of Main Street, has greatly lessened traffic congestion and has presented development opportunities to the rear of the commercial core. 12.12.3 Function and Vision Foxford functions as a vibrant employment and service centre for the population of the town itself and the wider hinterland. The town draws tourists and visitors attracted by angling on the River Moy and the unique industrial heritage of the town. The vision for Foxford is to enhance the attractiveness of the town centre as a place to live, work and visit, while simultaneously developing the town’s heritage and tourism assets. 271270

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   CHAPTER 12 SETTLEMENT 270 271 12.12.4 Economic Development A former industrial town, Foxford has shifted its focus of employment to newer industries and tourism centred around the industrial heritage of the town and angling on the River Moy. Employment in Foxford is dominated by O’ Hara’s Bakery located on the western outskirts of the town. Other smaller scale employers in the town include CPAC Foods and the Foxford Woollen Mills Visitor Centre. Convenience retail in the town is catered for by two appropriately sized supermarkets in the town centre. 12.12.5 Social Infrastructure Foxford is the retail centre and employment base for a larger, rural catchment area and provides a range of services, social amenities and community facilities, including a national and secondary school, childcare facilities, a playground, hotel, post office, leisure centre, shops, restaurants, food outlets, public houses and a range of community, voluntary, arts and sporting clubs. 12.12.6 Physical Infrastructure Foxford is served by the N26 and N58 national road network, which directly connects the town to the large urban centres of Ballina and Castlebar, respectively. The town is served by an existing municipal wastewater treatment plant, which was recently upgraded by Irish Water to increase its capacity (1,360 PE to 3,500PE). The water supply serving the town is drawn from Lough Muck. The upgrade works to the wastewater treatment plant ensures there will be sufficient capacity to accommodate additional population increase in the town. Foxford is also served by rail and a regular bus service. Foxford experiences regular flood events in recent years and appropriate measures need to be examined to manage this flood risk for the town, in order for it to develop in a consolidated fashion. 12.12.7 Heritage and Tourism The history and heritage of Foxford, both built and natural, are inextricably linked with the form and function of the existing settlement. There are four protected structures in Foxford, namely the Foxford bridge, St. Mary and Michael’s R.C. Church, Church of Ireland and St. Mary’s Convent. There are many other historic buildings and structures in the town, which contribute to the sense of place and character. The consolidation and revitalisation of the town core will strengthen the historic character of the town and enhance the tourist experience. The River Moy divides the town physically and attracts many visitors to the town each year. Considerable potential exists to improve access to the river within the town in conjunction with the relevant environmental agencies, thereby, building on its amenity value for both locals and visitors. 12.12.8 Sustainable Communities The development strategy for the town is to support revitalisation and repopulation of the town centre, by encouraging the reuse of existing vacant or derelict buildings and identifying sites for new residential and/or mixed-use developments that will respect the character and form of the existing core. It is part of the strategy to identify serviced sites within the built-up footprint of the settlement, for the provision of residential development at appropriate locations. Mayo County Council supports increased cycling and walking in the town and other community-led programmes, including the Foxford Community Action Plan (or any superseding version), to meet the needs of the town and contribute to a low carbon energy efficient Foxford. 12.12.9 Placemaking and Regeneration The placemaking strategy for Foxford builds on the way the town currently functions as both a residential settlement and as an employment and service provider, while also functioning as an attractive and unique tourist destination, centred around the natural and built environment and the industrial heritage of the town. This can be achieved by revitalising and rejuvenating the core area identification of enhancement works both centrally and beyond, designed to provide identification enhancement works both centrally and beyond, designed to provide social and environmental benefits to the local community and visitors alike. In addition, this involves the identification of opportunity sites within or close to the town core capable of accommodating residential developments of a suitable scale and density. In determining the location and extent of such sites, cognisance is taken of the flooding issues that currently impact the settlement. 12.12.10 Opportunity Sites Five Opportunity Sites have been identified for Foxford (Refer to Map): Opportunity Site 1 Comprises of the back lands to the rear of the existing commercial properties along Lower Main Street and is bounded by Morrogh Bernard Road. Opportunity Site 2 Located off Morrogh Bernard Road along Admiral Brown Road and is bounded to the north by Chapel Road properties/Church. Opportunity Site 3 Located off both Morrogh Bernard and Admiral Brown Roads and adjoins Sliabh Rua estate to the south-east. Opportunity Site 4 Located on Chapel Street, northern boundary abuts rear boundaries of properties fronting Providence Road. Opportunity Site 5 Located on St Patricks Terrace, western boundary adjoins Sacred Heart National School. These sites have been identified in Foxford for residential purposes to further contribute to the rejuvenation and revitalisation close to and within the town centre. Proposals for development within the opportunity sites should be accompanied by a site brief and should comply with national guidelines that seek to achieve sustainable compact development and to integrate principles of good urban design and placemaking. 273272

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   CHAPTER 12 SETTLEMENT 272 273 Foxford Settlement Plan Policies FDP 1 To investigate proposals for the enhancement of the public realm within the town core. FDP 2 To support community-led developments, where appropriate, including the implementation of the Community Futures Action Plan for Foxford (2017-2022) or any amended or superseding Community Futures Plan for the town. Foxford Settlement Plan Objectives FDO 1 To retain and enhance the distinctive character and layout of Foxford town, which reflects the historical street pattern of growth since the early nineteenth century configuration and to promote this as part of the town’s unique identity. FDO 2 To support the local community in exploring the creation of a river walk in the town, as resources permit and in a manner that will not adversely affect the integrity of the River Moy candidate Special Area of Conservation. FDO 3 To support the further investigation by the Office of Public Works of the necessity of a flood relief scheme for Foxford. FDO 4 To sustain, enhance and consolidate the retail and services offer within the core areas of Foxford and harness and develop the potential of heritage and tourism assets. FDO 5 To encourage and facilitate the re-use and regeneration of derelict land and buildings for retail and other town centre uses with due cognisance to the Sequential Approach prescribed in the Retail Planning Guidelines 2012. FDO 6 To support and facilitate the development of the five identified Opportunity Sites in Foxford for residential development, as outlined in Section 12.12.10 (Refer to Map). 12.13 Killala (Tier III) 12.13.1 Location and Context Killala is a coastal town in north Mayo, along the R314 regional route linking Ballina to Ballycastle. It is situated approximately 13km north of Ballina overlooking Killala Bay. Killala is the 16th largest settlement in Mayo. The population of the town has gradually decreased (14.5%) over the last twenty years, from 657 persons in 1996 (Census figures) to 562 persons in 2016 (Census figures). The focus of the settlement plan is to encourage job creation and population growth within the built-up footprint of the town, combined with increased service provision and attracting investment into the town. 12.13.2 History Context and Settlement Form The name Killala is derived from the Irish ‘Cill Ala’, meaning “the mottled church”. The origins of Killala diocese date back to the time of St Patrick. In the year 442 AD, St Patrick appointed his disciple, St Muredach, to build a community in Killala, which has resulted in many fine archaeological sites and monuments remaining today, such as Rosserk Abbey, Moyne Abbey, Rathfran Abbey, Meelick Castle and Humberts Rock. The town is dominated by a round tower, which dates from the 12th century. The tower marks Killala’s historic distinction as an important centre of ecclesiastical politics. In the centre of the town is a Church of Ireland cathedral. It was built in 1670 immediately above the remains of an earlier Catholic cathedral. The adjoining graveyard has a 9th century “Souterrain”, an underground burial structure associated with the Atlantic Iron Age settlers. The street layout of Killala reflects its historical pattern and there are several cut-stone mill buildings which reflect its commercial past. Housing developments have been predominantly located along the approach roads to the town. 12.13.3 Function and Vision Killala is located in the Ballina Municipal District and is designated as a Self-Sustaining Tier III town, which functions as a commuter area primarily for Ballina. It functions as an important local service centre, providing retail, residential, service and amenity functions for locals and the rural hinterlands, while supporting the upper tier towns of the Settlement Hierarchy. Opportunity exists to enhance the level of employment and services in the town, given the established employment base and capitalising on developing Killala as a tourist base for local attractions. Opportunities exist for Killala for a data centre and/or renewable energy hub at the Killala Business Park. Consolidated growth within the development footprint, regeneration, supporting local employment, the expansion of services to meet the needs of residents and visitors together, along with measures to visually protect and enhance the public realm and historic character of this settlement will be key in realising the potential of Killala as a Self-Sustaining Growth Town. 12.13.4 Economic Development The scale and range of commercial facilities in the town make it a significant centre of services and employment for the surrounding rural hinterland. Independent traders include a butcher, a chemist, a draper, confectioners, a petrol station with convenience shop and an Aurivo agri- store. Opportunity exists for the town to enhance its retail offer and the Council will look favourably upon the re-use of existing vacant buildings in the town core for local level convenience and comparison shopping, including tourism/niche comparison outlets. Enterprise within the town is mainly in the services and light industrial sectors. Killala Precision Components, Killala Upholstery and Killala fish factories provide employment for the town. A supportive approach shall be adopted to promote the expansion of these activities and to further local employment. The Council will support the upgrade, retrofitting and enhancement of existing buildings, particularly in the context of achieving energy efficiency and reducing carbon footprint. 12.13.5 Social Infrastructure Community Services within and close to Killala include a national school and a community centre. Other services available in the town include a creche, post office, medical clinic, garda station and ATM. Killala has numerous community groups and a strong community council and has benefited from the Community Futures Action Planning Process. In recent years there have been a number of positive developments in the town including a MUGA. 12.13.6 Physical Infrastructure Killala is served by the R314 regional route which directly connects the town to Ballina. A new municipal wastewater treatment plant (3,155PE) has been operational for Killala since 2020. The new plant brings benefits to Killala, in terms of acting as a platform for social and economic development, increased population, health, integrity of the environment and improved water quality for all. Cleaner water will enhance the amenity value of the town and bay. Killala is served by the Ballina Regional Water 275274

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   CHAPTER 12 SETTLEMENT 274 275 Supply. Killala has good access to internet including broadband. The town is served by a regular daily bus service and the Council continues to promote and support the development of public transport initiatives in keeping with the principles of Smarter Travel. 12.13.7 Heritage and Tourism Killala has a rich and diverse built heritage, containing protected structures (6); recorded monuments (10) and other historic buildings and structures, all of which contribute to a rich sense of place and character. The round tower is the most distinguishable structure of the town, by reason of its elevated location overlooking Killala Bay. Mayo County Council have completed a comprehensive analysis of the historic development of Killala, its setting and built heritage to identify the town’s unique character and recommendations on how that character can be enhanced, including the need for an ACA. Killala, due to its location, is a popular tourist destination. Its nearest beach, Ross Beach, is a wonderfully unspoiled Blue Flag beach, which is excellent for swimming, surfing and sailing. A strong tradition of fishing prevails in the area, with Killala Harbour providing a focal point for visiting fishermen and locals alike. In addition to natural resources Killala’s built heritage constitutes a valuable tourist resource. 12.13.8 Sustainable Communities A Community Futures Action Plan (2015-2020) has been prepared for Killala. The compact form of the centre of Killala combined with the range of retail, commercial and leisure services within the town core, afford opportunities to accommodate the future needs of the town in a consolidated fashion. The development strategy for the town aims to support revitalisation and repopulation of the town centre, by encouraging the reuse of existing vacant or derelict buildings and identifying sites for new residential and/or mixed-use developments that will respect the character and form of the existing core. It is also part of the strategy to identify serviced sites within the built-up footprint of the settlement, for the provision of residential development at appropriate locations. Stronger connections and linkages between residential areas and the town centre is important in ensuring sustainable communities and for encouraging the use of more sustainable modes of transport. A strong emphasis will be placed on the principles of green infrastructure, permeability and connectivity, alongside the integration of community and recreation facilities to assist with developing sustainable communities. It is necessary to consolidate the town and ensure the delivery of sustainable communities in Killala, comprising of a mix of housing types, densities and tenure in conjunction with a high standard of design. Mayo County Council support sustainable transport options in the town, such as cycling and walking and community-led programmes, including the implementation of the Killala Community Action Plan (or any superseding version) to meet the needs of the town and contribute to a low carbon energy efficient town. 12.13.9 Placemaking and Regeneration Killala is an attractive town with a historical atmosphere. The town provides the focus for a wide range of activities that contribute to a sense of place and identity. This town plays an important economic, social and cultural role and the main priority of the Plan is to consolidate the existing centre, while supporting the existing businesses and activities, in order to maintain vibrancy. A character study of the town, with potential for an ACA designation, would ensure the protection of the unique character of the town, whilst allowing new development to compliment same. Funding is secured under the 2017 Town and Village Renewal Scheme for Killala Round Tower Dereliction and Streetscape Improvements. The Plan supports the continued pursuit of all funding streams to sensitively enhance the public realm and the re-use of derelict, vacant and under-utilised lands within the built-up area of Killala. 12.13.10 Opportunity Sites Three Opportunity Sites have been identified for Killala (Refer to Map): Opportunity Site 1 Located at the northern edge of the plan, defined to the north by the shoreline, to the west by the R314 road, and to the east by Killala harbour. Opportunity Site 2 Located off Courthouse Street, to the east of the soccer pitch. Opportunity Site 3 Located to the west of the Killala plan area adjoining the plan boundary and to the east of Killala FC pitch, and to the east/north of Hillcrest. These sites have been identified in Killala for residential purposes to further contribute to the rejuvenation and revitalisation close to and within the town centre. Proposals for development within the opportunity sites should be accompanied by a site brief and should comply with national guidelines that seek to achieve sustainable compact development and to integrate principles of good urban design and placemaking. Killala Settlement Plan Policies KAP 1 To support appropriate enterprise/employment uses that are sympathetic to and supportive of maintaining the architectural character and setting of Killala House (a Protected Structure) and adjacent lands. KAP 2 To support the linkage of the Western Way with various local walking/cycling trails in the area including the Great Western Greenway. KAP 3 Support community-led developments, where appropriate, including the implementation of the Community Futures Action Plan for Killala (2015-2020) or any amended or superseding Community Futures Plan for the town. Killala Settlement Plan Objectives KAO 1 To work with existing service providers and relevant interests to promote Killala as one of the key tourist locations within County Mayo, in accordance with the objectives contained within this Plan. KAO 2 To protect and enhance the character of the pier area and to provide for the development of appropriate commercial, tourism, leisure uses and ancillary works such as car parking and navigation. KAO 3 To promote greater public accessibility to existing tourist attractions in the town. 277276

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   CHAPTER 12 SETTLEMENT 276 277 KAO 4 To investigate the provision of a bypass around the town and to improve traffic management through the provision of the inner relief road and the development of a town centre car park, subject to no significant adverse effects on the environment, including the integrity of the Natura 2000 network. KAO 5 To ensure that the historic architectural character of Killala is protected and enhanced. KAO 6 To designate within the lifetime of this plan an Architectural Conservation Area for Killala town centre including Market Street, Courthouse Street, Church Street, Steeple Hill, William Street, Georges Street, and Ballina Road (R314) and the coastline to the pier. KAO 7 To protect Killala Bay/Moy Estuary Special Area of Conservation (Site Code 000458) and Special Protection Area (Site Code 004036). Development proposals will be required to demonstrate that the development will not have an adverse effect on the integrity of the sites. KAO 8 To retain the tourist accommodation function of the holiday cottages at Steeple Hill. KAO 9 To encourage and facilitate the re-use and regeneration of derelict land and buildings for retail and other town centre uses with due cognisance to the Sequential Approach prescribed in the Retail Planning Guidelines 2012. KAO 10 To support and facilitate the development of the three identified Opportunity Sites in Killala for residential development, as outlined in Section 12.13.10 (Refer to Map). 12.14 Kiltimagh (Tier III) 12.14.1 Location and Context Kiltimagh is centrally located within County Mayo, approximately 20km east of Castlebar and southwest of Ireland West Airport Knock. The town is set in an elevated location, with the highest point being 70 metres above sea-level. The Sliabh Cairn Mountain range provides a backdrop from the northwest to the southwest and forms an attractive landscape setting for the town. The Pollagh, Glore and Yellow rivers, which are located in close proximity to the town provides significant natural amenities. Kiltimagh is the 9th largest settlement in Mayo. The population of the town has gradually increased (16.6%) over the last twenty years, from 917 persons in 1996 (Census figures) to 1,069 persons in 2016 (Census figures). The focus of this settlement plan to encourage job creation and population growth within the built-up footprint of the town, combined with service provision and attracting investment into the town. 12.14.2 Historical Context and Settlement Form The town was first recorded in 1617 and the Irish place name for Kiltimagh is Coillte Mach, which translates as “the woods of Maghach”. Kiltimagh, as we know it today, developed as an artisan village around the late 19th century. The structure of the town is well-defined with retail and commercial uses primarily located within its town core, alongside enterprise and employment, institutional and community uses generally on the outskirts. Residential areas are mainly to be found to the south/ southwest of the town. An opportunity exists to consolidate development by encouraging infill development, over the shop development, redevelopment and/or occupancy of vacant properties. 12.14.3 Function and Vision Kiltimagh is located in the Claremorris-Swinford Municipal District. The town provides an important economic focus, providing retail, residential, education, service and amenity functions for locals and the wider rural hinterlands, whilst supporting the upper tier towns of the Settlement Hierarchy. The plan provides an opportunity to maximise the potential of the town’s strategic central location within the county and along the Western Rail Corridor. Consolidated growth within the development footprint, regeneration, supporting local employment and the expansion of services to meet the needs of residents and visitors, together with measures to visually enhance the public realm will be key in realising the potential of Kiltimagh as a Tier III Self-Sustaining Town. 12.14.4 Economic Development Kiltimagh is an important local service town for the wider agricultural hinterland of the Kiltimagh area and provides a wide range of services and facilities to meet the daily needs of the local population. The town provides a range of medium to small retail and convenience outlets, hotels, public houses and restaurants, which provide an important employment base. Other notable employers include Genfitt, CMS distribution and the Cairn international trade centre. Opportunity exists for the town to enhance its retail offering, and the Council shall look favourably upon the re-use of existing vacant buildings in the town centre for local level convenience and comparison shopping, including tourism/niche comparison outlets. 12.14.5 Social Infrastructure Kiltimagh provides a range of services, social and community facilities, including a post office, medical centre, pre-school, primary school, secondary school, parish hall, church, bank, hotels, pharmacies, museums, retail shops, restaurants, take-aways, service stations, public houses, community centre, health centre and library. Kiltimagh has numerous community, sporting and social clubs alongside recreational facilities. Sports and recreational facilities in the town include GAA facilities, approved Velo- Rail, MUGA, and children’s playground. It is also proposed to create a town amenity park to the west of the train station. 12.14.6 Physical Infrastructure Kiltimagh is strategically located in the centre of Mayo and is served by a range of important regional routes linking the town directly to the nearby settlements of Swinford, Balla, Knock, Bohola and Kilkelly. The town is within 20-minute drive of Ireland West Airport Knock and located along the Western Rail Corridor (WRC), with potential future links to Limerick and Sligo. The town is served by an existing municipal wastewater treatment plant (3,333PE) and a water supply from the Kiltimagh Public Water Supply source from the Glore River. The town benefits from fibre optic broadband infrastructure (Metropolitan Area Network). 12.14.7 Heritage and Tourism Kiltimagh has retained much of its 19th century features and its townscape has a distinctive character with a considerable number of Victorian buildings and artisan terraces. The town is a historic market town and is defined by Market Square and the collection of associated buildings along Main Street, Aiden Street, Chapel Street and Thomas Street. Kiltimagh contains protected structures (5), recorded monuments (8) and many other local vernacular buildings, all of which are reflective of its historical development, sense of place and character of the town. The town contains a Sculpture Park and Railway 279278

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   CHAPTER 12 SETTLEMENT 278 279 Station Museum, with a station containing on-track carriages from the WRC. Mayo County Council have identified Local Biodiversity Areas in the town and there are plans to enhance the existing Kiltimagh Amenity Park. The built and cultural heritage of Kiltimagh are key tourist attractions to the town. The development of the Velo Rail, along the WRC tracks, will attract many more recreational visitors to the town, with additional tourism opportunities if the WRC reopens for rail purposes. 12.14.8 Sustainable Communities Kiltimagh provides an attractive place to live and is rich in heritage, natural beauty and amenity. It benefits from strong community involvement and a Community Futures Action Plan (2019-2024) has been prepared for the town. The development strategy for Kiltimagh is to support new housing and population growth, consistent with the Core Strategy. It aims to facilitate compact growth through revitalisation of the historic town core, together with providing of a mix of housing types, densities and tenure to meet the needs of Kiltimagh, as a viable alternative to single rural housing within the surrounding countryside. The town is served by a bus service between Ballina and Claremorris and other local services operated by Mayo Local Link. The County Council is keen to continue to promote and support the development of public transport initiatives in keeping with the principles of Smarter Travel. 12.14.9 Placemaking and Regeneration Kiltimagh’s distinctive buildings, streetscape and sculptures throughout the town provide a distinctive a sense of place. In terms of placemaking, the main priority is the consolidation of the town centre, while supporting existing business in order to maintain vibrancy. Many buildings in the centre are suitable for renovation of upper storeys into residential use, while ground floors should be prioritised for commercial and community uses that activate the street, where possible. Together this will help sustain town vibrancy, including the evening economy. Another priority of the Kiltimagh Settlement Plan is the regeneration and repopulation of the town centre, through the sustainable reuse of existing buildings, focusing on dereliction and the appropriate development of infill, opportunity sites, underpinned by good urban design and placemaking principles. This will help drive the delivery of quality housing, services and employment opportunities, in tandem with supporting social infrastructure. 12.14.10 Opportunity Sites Three Opportunity Sites have been identified for Kiltimagh (Refer to Map): Opportunity Site 1 Located off and to the south of Clonkedagh Road. Opportunity Site 2 Located off and to the north of Clonkedagh Road. Opportunity Site 3 Located to the rear of the properties at the northern end of Main Street (Walshtown) and is bounded by the railway line to the east. These opportunity sites have been identified in Kiltimagh for residential purposes to further contribute to the rejuvenation and revitalisation close to and within the town centre. Proposals for development within the opportunity sites should be accompanied by a site brief and should comply with national guidelines that seek to achieve sustainable compact development and to integrate principles of good urban design and placemaking. Kiltimagh Settlement Plan Policies KTP 1 To support the reinstatement of the Western Rail Corridor, in particular actively seek and promote the re-opening of the Claremorris-Galway rail link, as well as a link to Sligo and to safeguard and protect these potential rail links from redevelopment for non-transport related purposes, in order not to preclude their future uses as an operational transportation network. KTP 2 To support the work of IRD Kiltimagh Ltd., in providing essential community services for the elderly and marginal groups of Kiltimagh. KTP 3 To support the creation of an Arts residency programme with revolving art residency spaces. KTP 4 To promote more frequent bus services to Kiltimagh allowing increased connectivity and accessibility for tourists and residents alike. KTP 5 To support community-led developments, where appropriate, including the implementation of the Community Futures Action Plan for Kiltimagh (2019-2024) or any amended or superseding Community Futures Plan for the town. 281280

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   CHAPTER 12 SETTLEMENT 280 281 Kiltimagh Settlement Plan Objectives KTO 1 To protect and enhance existing amenity facilities in Kiltimagh, particularly the Pollagh River, the playground, amenity park, GAA pitch, wetland park and sculpture trail. KTO 2 To protect existing public sculptures throughout the town and support the provision of additional sculptures at appropriate locations throughout the town. KTO 3 To support and facilitate pedestrian mobility and safety in the town by introducing traffic calming measures and pedestrian crossings. KTO 4 To maintain and further develop walking routes and linkages to the walking routes throughout the town. KTO 5 To implement effective vehicular linkages within and around the town, subject to further feasibility studies, detailed design and traffic impact assessment. KTO 6 To encourage and facilitate the re-use and regeneration of derelict land and buildings for retail and other town centre uses with due cognisance to the Sequential Approach prescribed in the Retail Planning Guidelines 2012. KTO 7 To support and facilitate the development of the three identified Opportunity Sites in Kiltimagh for residential development, as outlined in Section 12.14.10 (Refer to Map). 12.15 Knock (Tier III) 12.15.1 Location and Context The town of Knock is located in east Mayo and is an international place of pilgrimage and prayer where over one and a half million pilgrims visit each year. It is located approximately 11km northeast of both Claremorris and Ballyhaunis, respectively. Knock is the 13th largest settlement in Mayo. The population of the town has significantly increased (69%) over the last twenty years, from 575 persons in 1996 (Census figures) to 972 persons in 2016 (Census figures). The focus for the settlement plan is encouraging job creation and population growth within the built-up footprint of the town, combined with service provision and attracting investment into the town. 12.15.2 History Context and Settlement Form Knock comes from the Irish word “cnoc” meaning hill, historical evidence shows the village had been named that as far back as 1625. The Irish language name was changed to “Cnoc Mhuire” meaning the hill of the Virgin Mary after the visions. Notably, its name is derived from the Knock Shrine, an approved Catholic shrine and place of pilgrimage where the faithful believe that the Blessed Virgin Mary, Saint Joseph and Saint John the Evangelist appeared on 21 August 1879. The structure of the town is well defined and consists of a linear settlement form, with housing developments located along the approach roads to the town. An opportunity exists to consolidate development by strengthening linkages between residential areas and the town centre and encouraging infill development, over the shop development, re-development or occupancy of vacant properties. 12.15.3 Function and Vision Knock is located within the Claremorris-Swinford Municipal District. The town functions as an important economic focus, providing retail, residential, service and amenity functions for locals and the rural hinterlands, while also supporting the upper tier towns of the Settlement Hierarchy. Retail and commercial uses are primarily located within its town, with educational and community uses generally on the edge of town centre. Opportunity exists to further develop Knock as an international tourist destination in a manner that maintains and enhances the quality of life for those living, working in and visiting the town. There are further opportunities for economic development, social integration and sustainable transport options including smarter travel, whilst protecting the natural, cultural and built heritage and the environmental quality of the town. 12.15.4 Economic Development Knock is predominantly a place of international pilgrimage and prayer and as a result has developed into a tourist town. Other forms of employment include a range of medium to small retail outlets, as well as tourist accommodation, public houses and restaurants. All of these provide important sources of employment in the town. 12.15.5 Social Infrastructure Community services within and close to Knock include a national school and community centre. Other services include a creche, post office, medical clinic, nursing home, garda station and ATM. Knock has numerous communities, sporting and social clubs, however the town has few recreational facilities. 12.15.6 Physical Infrastructure Knock is served by the N17, R323 and R329 road network, which directly connects the town to the large urban centres of Claremorris and Ballyhaunis. It has a regular daily bus service. The town is served by an existing municipal wastewater treatment plant (6,200PE) and a water supply from the Lough Mask Regional Water Supply Scheme. There is sufficient water service capacity to accommodate the projected additional population increases in the town over the plan period. Ireland West Airport Knock is located approximately 21km northeast of Knock village, which was originally built to bring people to the Knock Shrine. 12.15.7 Heritage and Tourism Knock has a rich cultural heritage, which has given the town a sense of identity. It has developed into a major pilgrimage centre for national and international groups. The Knock shrine complex incorporates five churches including the Apparition Church, Parish Church, Basilica, Blessed Sacrament Chapel and Chapel of Reconciliation. Knock Shrine is the leading religious tourism destination in Ireland and in Western Europe. It is the second largest Marian Shrine in the world and surpasses all Fáilte Ireland destination sites at a national level in terms of footfall, attracting one and a half million tourists annually. The potential role of religious/pilgrimage tourism is significant in view of the number of the iconic sites at Knock Shrine. There is therefore significant potential for harnessing this footfall to the wider county and region, by way of creative exploration of and interlinking to a range of complementary tourist activities. 283282

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   CHAPTER 12 SETTLEMENT 282 283 12.15.8 Sustainable Communities Knock has an active local community, and a Community Futures Action Plan (2016-2021) has been prepared for the town. The compact form of the centre of Knock combined with the range of retail, commercial and leisure services provided within its core, provide opportunities to accommodate the future needs of the town in a consolidated fashion. The delivery of sustainable communities will involve the re-use and regeneration of derelict and vacant buildings within the town centre and provide a mix of housing types and densities with high-quality design on infill and brownfield sites, moving outwards from the centre. The development strategy for Knock is to facilitate compact growth and to re-populate the town centre, providing a viable alternative to single rural housing within the surrounding countryside. Stronger connections and linkages between the existing residential areas on the town’s edge and the town centre is important for sustainable communities and for encouraging the use of more sustainable modes of transport. A strong emphasis will be placed on the principles of green infrastructure, permeability and connectivity, alongside the integration of community and recreation facilities to assist with developing sustainable communities. 12.15.9 Placemaking and Regeneration Knock has developed into a thriving community based around Knock Shrine, providing accommodation, restaurants and souvenir shops, in addition to its role as a service centre to the surrounding areas. The town provides the focus for a wide range of activities that contribute to a sense of place and identity. Enhancement works relating to a shared surface plaza have been carried out in Knock from funding secured from the RRDF. There is potential for more efficient use of under-utilised lands, vacant sites and buildings within the existing built-up footprint of Knock to assist with repopulating the town centre, improving the public realm, and to drive the delivery of quality housing, services and employment opportunities, in tandem with supporting social infrastructure. 12.15.10 Opportunity Sites Three Opportunity Sites have been identified for Knock (Refer to Map): Opportunity Site 1 Located off the roundabout of the northern end of the town at the junction of Main Street and the Ballyhaunis Road. Opportunity Site 2 Located west of Manor Quarter to the South of the National School. Opportunity Site 3 Located to the east of the southern end of Main Street. These sites have been identified in Knock for mixed-use and residential purposes to further contribute to the rejuvenation and revitalisation close to and within the town centre. Proposals for development within the opportunity sites should be accompanied by a site brief and should comply with national guidelines that seek to achieve sustainable compact development and to integrate principles of good urban design and placemaking. Knock Settlement Plan Policies KTP 1 To support and promote the development of Knock as a world-renowned religious tourist destination. KTP 2 To support the provision of amenity walkways with dedicated pedestrian and cycle ways, planting and picnic areas in the town. KTP 3 To promote greater public accessibility to existing tourist attractions in the town. KTP 4 Support community-led developments, where appropriate, including the implementation of the Community Futures Action Plan for Knock (2016-2021) or any amended or superseding Community Futures Plan for the town. Knock Settlement Plan Objectives KTO 1 To facilitate the development of the town’s religious tourism products to the highest international standards, in a manner that respects, builds on, protects and enhances the cultural, built and natural heritage and local amenities of the town. KTO 2 To work with existing service providers and relevant interests to promote Knock as one of the key tourist locations within County Mayo, in accordance with the objectives contained in this Plan. KTO 3 To ensure that all new development makes a positive contribution to the built and natural environment of the Plan area, by ensuring that it is absorbed into the surrounding streetscape/landscape, so that it does not impinge in any significant way on the character, integrity or uniformity of the town and does not undermine or interfere with the iconic status of Knock Basilica. KTO 4 To safeguard and protect the Knock By-Pass from development for non-infrastructure related purposes. KTO 5 To encourage and facilitate the re-use and regeneration of derelict land and buildings for retail and other town centre uses with due cognisance to the Sequential Approach prescribed in the Retail Planning Guidelines 2012. KTO 6 To support and facilitate the development of the three identified Opportunity Sites in Knock for residential development, as outlined in Section 12.15.10 (Refer to Map). 285284

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    CHAPTER 12 SETTLEMENT 284 285 12.16 Louisburgh (Tier III) 12.16.1 Location and Context Louisburgh is a coastal town on southern coast of Clew Bay along the R335 and R378 regional roads, approximately 21km west of Westport. Louisburgh is the 18th largest settlement in Mayo and its coastal location has influenced the development of the town in recent years. The population of the town has nearly trebled (189%) over the last twenty years, from 150 persons in 1996 (Census figures) to 434 persons in 2016 (Census figures). The focus of the settlement plan is to encourage job creation and population growth within the built-up footprint of the town, combined with service provision and attracting investment. 12.16.2 Historical Context and Settlement Form Louisburgh was founded in 1795 by Lord Altamont and is a planned town. It was designed to encapsulate a four-street system converging at a central crossroads known locally as “The Square”, which provides a strong focal point for the town. Each corner building on the square has been specifically designed to orientate towards the square. There is a significant level of development on the outskirts of the town, including numerous holiday homes. The Bunowen River lies to the south of the village influencing the shape and form of the town. The town structure is well defined, with retail and commercial uses primarily located within its centre, with educational, manufacturing and community uses generally on the outskirts. An opportunity exists to consolidate development by encouraging infill development, re-development or occupancy of vacant properties. 12.16.3 Function and Vision Louisburgh is located in the Westport-Belmullet Municipal District. The town provides a wide range of services to meet the daily needs of the local population and rural hinterland. Its coastal location and proximity to other natural amenities, such as Croagh Patrick, makes Louisburgh a popular destination for holiday makers. Consolidated growth within the existing urban footprint, regeneration, supporting local employment, expansion of services to meet the needs of residents and visitors, together with measures to visually enhance the public realm are central to realising the potential of Louisburgh as a Tier III Self-Sustaining Town. 12.16.4 Economic Development Louisburgh is predominantly a coastal tourist service town but has other forms of employment including an established manufacturing base. A range of medium to small retail outlets, together with tourist accommodation, public houses and restaurants, provide important employment. Louisburgh is an important service town for the islands of Inishturk and Clare Island and for the wide agricultural hinterland in South West Mayo and into County Galway. 12.16.5 Social Infrastructure Louisburgh provides a range of services, social and community facilities, including a post office, medical centre, pre-school, primary school, secondary school, parish hall, 2 churches (Roman Catholic and Church of Ireland), the Grainne Mhaol Centre, retail outlets, restaurants and public houses. Louisburgh has numerous community, sporting and social clubs, including facilities such as the GAA club and children’s playground. 12.16.6 Physical Infrastructure Louisburgh is served by the R335 and R378 regional routes which provide direct connection to Westport. Louisburgh is along the regular bus route between Kiladoon and Westport, while a local community bus service operated by the Mayo Rural Link also serves the town and the surrounding hinterlands. The County Council promotes and supports the development of public transport initiatives in keeping with the principles of Smarter Travel. The town is served by a water supply sourced from the Bunnahowan River, while the existing wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) is operating at capacity. The Plan supports an increased capacity of the plant in order to accommodate additional growth over the plan period and beyond. The town has good access to internet, including broadband. 12.16.7 Heritage and Tourism Louisburgh’s built heritage consists of its planned form, protected structures (2) and local historic vernacular buildings, all of which are reflective of the historical development, sense of place and character of the town. The Bunowen River is the main natural asset in the town. Along the river there is an informal riverside walk where tree groups and meadows are located which provide appealing views towards the mountains and the sea. The village contains pockets of significant trees, especially along Church Road and south of the river at the end of Bridge Street. Louisburgh is a popular tourist destination due to its coastal location, access to blue flag beaches and proximity to Westport, Croagh Patrick, Clare Island, Inishturk and Connemara, with plentiful tourist accommodation and holiday homes in the town. 12.16.8 Sustainable Communities Louisburgh is an attractive place to live and is rich in heritage and amenity. It has a strong community focus and has a Community Futures Action Plan (2015 -2021) prepared for the town. The development strategy for Louisburgh is to facilitate compact growth and re-populate the town centre and to provide a viable alternative to single rural housing within the surrounding countryside. Stronger connections and linkages between the existing residential areas on the town’s edge and the town centre is important for sustainable communities and for encouraging the use of more sustainable modes of transport. A strong emphasis will be placed on the principles of green infrastructure, permeability and connectivity, alongside the integration of community and recreation facilities to assist with developing sustainable communities. It is also necessary to consolidate the town and ensure the delivery of sustainable communities, comprising of a mix of housing types, densities and tenure, with a high standard of design. Mayo County Council supports a bottom-up approach to sustainable communities, including community-led programmes, such as the Louisburgh Community Action Plan (or any superseding version) to meet the needs of the town and contribute to a low carbon energy efficient environment. 12.16.9 Place Making and Regeneration Louisburgh is an attractive coastal town. The town square provides the focus for a wide range of activities which contribute to a strong sense of place and identity. Enhancement works comprising of paving, and the upgrading of pedestrian footpaths and crossings would serve to further enhance the traditional character of the town. There is potential for better use of under-utilised lands, vacant sites and buildings within the existing built-up footprint, to drive the delivery of quality housing, services and employment opportunities, particularly along Chapel Street, Church Street, Long Street and Bridge Street. Opportunities exist for the development of the river walk along the Bunowen River; the reestablishment of a village green on Church Street; as well as improved linkages between the residential areas and the town centre, which are supported by Mayo County Council. 287286

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.