Development plan · Monaghan County Council
Monaghan County Development Plan 2025–2031
The council's development plan written statement: its strategy, policies, objectives and development standards.
Monaghan County Council · 2025–2031 · 376 pages
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- 189 7.6 ANCILLARY INFRASTRUCTURE A range of ancillary infrastructure is required to support the operation, maintenance and use of the transport network. 7.6.1 SERVICE AREAS AND FUEL STATIONS It is increasingly accepted that a safe road network includes the provision of sufficient parking areas to allow drivers to stop and rest. The Driving Time and Rest Periods Regulations seek to improve working conditions for professional drivers and road safety for all road users. The regulation defines a need for drivers to break for 45 minutes after every four and a half hours driving. In addition, drivers must take daily rest periods and weekly rest periods. Drivers are permitted to take daily and reduced weekly rest periods in their vehicles, however it is beneficial to have service areas available for such drivers, as well as the travelling public. Service areas may include parking for cars and heavy commercial vehicles; provision of food, fuel, toilet and shower facilities, play areas and convenience stores. With the transition to electric vehicles, service areas are becoming increasingly important as opportunities to recharge on longer distance journeys, and it is important that service users have access to other services such as waiting areas and Wi-Fi. Monaghan County Council’s Planning Authority will engage in a coordinated approach with TII. Any plans or proposals will take cognisance of the policies set out in Section 2.8 of the DoECLG Spatial Planning and National Roads Guidelines. With the transition to active travel, public transport and lower energy vehicles (including electric vehicles which may be charged from home or work), the design and purpose of fuel stations may need to be reconsidered and the range of services available may need to diversify to ensure the continued operation of such amenities. It is desirable to ensure a network of fuel stations is retained to service the wider transport fleet, and to ensure local services are provided in local communities. From a transport perspective, the development and diversification of fuel stations will be supported, subject to them not adversely impacting road safety, the carrying capacity of the road network and compliance with other planning policy. 7.6.2 RENEWABLE TRANSPORT FUEL The Renewable Transport Fuel Policy 2023-2025 sets out actions and targets to facilitate a transition to renewable transport fuel, including electric vehicles and biofuels. The number of car owners purchasing electric vehicles is likely to rise over the plan period due to government incentives and advances in technology. To support this objective, it is considered that new development should make provision for charging facilities. Under the Roads and Traffic Act 2023 the Minister is required to promote and seek to accelerate the uptake of zero to low emission vehicles by promoting and increasing public awareness of zero to low emission vehicles, and by increasing the availability of recharging infrastructure and refuelling infrastructure for zero to low emission vehicles. The legislation makes provision for the Minister to assist the provision of recharging infrastructure and refuelling infrastructure for zero to low emission vehicles, and provide advice, information and guidance in relation to design, standards, accessibility, operation and consumer use of zero to low emission vehicles, recharging infrastructure and refuelling infrastructure. Vehicle charging facilities may be required to support electric vehicle use, with this infrastructure supported by the Council itself, through concession contracts or partnerships, or by the private sector. Specific infrastructure may be required to support other renewable fuels, such as biofuels or hydrogen. PTO 9 Where viable, to support the delivery (or development) of the infrastructure required to support vehicle sharing schemes in appropriate locations. PTO 10 Where viable, to support the delivery (or development) of the infrastructure required to support cycle sharing or rental schemes. PTO 11 Support the development of mobility hubs that can support and integrate a range of transport modes and can connect with other complementary facilities such as bus services, Park and Ride and/or Park and Share facilities. PTO 12 To require that facilities to support public and shared transport services are provided for in the development of new or expanding institutions, employment centres, sports complexes, and leisure facilities, including shared mobility facilities bus stops, bus shelters and bus turning areas as appropriate. Monaghan County Development Plan 2025 – 2031Transport and infrastructurechapter 07
- 190 7.6.3 PARKING Although active travel policy and climate action targets seek to reduce the number of private vehicle trips, not all journeys can be made by public transport or active travel modes. To support retail, commercial and industrial sectors, it is essential that public parking and loading facilities are available in appropriate locations, and that parking policy promotes the appropriate use of those facilities. The implementation of transport plans or policies, the re-allocation of road space may require the removal or repurposing of town centre parking. To support such interventions, the introduction of bye-laws and pay parking may be required. New car parking developments may be required and may be delivered by the Council itself, through concession contracts or partnerships, or by the private sector. New developments will be required to provide parking in line with the requirements of Chapter 15 Development Management Standards. New developments and new carparks may be required to provide electric vehicle charging, and electric vehicle charging may need to be retrofitted in existing developments, in line with Chapter 15 Development Management Standards. Bicycle/E-bike and E-scooter parking, storage and charging also need to be provided for to achieve active travel targets, in line with Chapter 15 Development Management Standards. 7.6.4 ROAD NOISE Under the Environmental Noise Directive (“END”) (2002/49/EC), which was transposed into Irish law through the European Communities (Environmental Noise) Regulations 2018 (S.I. 549/2018) and the European Communities (Environmental Noise) (Amendment) Regulations 2021 (S.I. 663/2021), Monaghan County Council is required to prepare a Noise Action Plan for the County. The Regulations require Strategic Noise Maps and Noise Action Plans to be made or revised every five years. The current Noise Action Plan will span 2024 – 2028. The purpose of the Noise Action Plan is to endeavour to manage the existing noise environment and protect the future noise environment within the action planning area. Management of the existing noise environment will be achieved by verifying noise in the Priority Important Areas (PIAs) and undertaking a cost-benefit analysis for noise mitigation, where required. Protection of the future noise environment will be achieved through the planning process such as land-use planning, development planning, sound insulation measures, traffic planning and control of environmental noise sources. Monaghan County Council give a commitment to undertake an assessment of noise mitigation measures for Priority Important Areas (PIAs), and where appropriate to implement mitigation measures subject to funding and approvals. 7.6.5 MAINTENANCE As part of their remit to maintain and operate the road network, Local Authorities must plan and prepare for normal maintenance, severe weather and emergencies. Road maintenance requires significant machinery, space to stockpile materials and store equipment, and appropriate facilities for staff and contractors to be able to operate and work safely. A major part of road maintenance is repairing and refreshing the road surface, which requires significant resources which generate carbon emissions. Supporting waste prevention and facilitating the reuse of materials in road pavement and maintenance projects, in line with the circular economy, could result in carbon savings and reduced costs. Since 2020 Monaghan County Council has spearheaded an innovative initiative through Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP) to recycle old pavement materials to make a more sustainable product for road surface maintenance and construction, which results in a reduction of up to 70% in C02. As circular economy projects such as this are developed, the need to be able to store and process materials at local level will increase, and new infrastructure and facilities may be required to support the process. As new active travel and recreational walking and cycling routes develop, the Council may be required to adopt or expand its maintenance programme to include such routes, and this may require the provision of new, strategically located facilities, access points and welfare facilities. Monaghan County Development Plan 2025 – 2031
- 191 ATIP 1 Support the development of a small number of appropriately located service areas which provide a range of services and facilities, with reference to local and national policy, that can safely service the needs of long-distance travellers. ATIP 2 To support the development and diversification of fuel stations to ensure they continue to service the needs of the wider transport system. ATIP 3 To support the development of infrastructure for Renewable Transport Fuel, having due regard for the need for interoperability, requirements of Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Regulations (EU) 2023 and all relevant Health and Safety considerations. ATIP 4 All residential development proposals with communal parking areas should provide Electric Vehicle charging points in line with Development Management Standards as set out in Chapter 15. ATIP 5 All non-residential development proposals should provide Electric Vehicle charging points in line with Development Management Standards as set out in Chapter 15. ATIP 6 Support the development of Electric Vehicle charging networks, including the enhancement of the electricity network to support charging infrastructure. ATIP 7 Car charging spaces should be clearly demarcated with appropriate signage in accordance with the Development Management set out in Chapter 15. ATIP 8 To support the development of appropriately located and suitably designed new carparking facilities where they can assist in compliance with the Sustainable and Spatial Planning Guidelines, facilitate urban regeneration and public realm enhancement, or support the implementation of Local Transport Plans or Sustainable Mobility Plans. ATIP 9 To ensure that all new urban development proposals and extensions to existing developments in urban areas have appropriate car parking and Electric Vehicle charging provision in accordance with Development Management Standards as set out in Chapter 15. ATIP 10 To ensure that all new urban development proposals and extensions to existing developments in urban areas have appropriate bicycle/E-bike/E-Scooter parking, storage and recharging provision in accordance with Development Management Standards as set out in Chapter 15. ATIP 11 Subject to funding and approvals, implement noise mitigation measures at locations identified in the Noise Action Plan. ATIP 12 Through the redevelopment or expansion of existing service areas, yards and depots, or through the creation of new facilities at appropriate locations around the County, develop appropriate facilities for the sustainable, efficient and effective maintenance and management of the transport network. ATIP 13 Through the redevelopment or expansion of existing service areas, yards and depots, or through the creation of new facilities at appropriate locations around the County, provide the infrastructure and facilities necessary to support innovative new road maintenance activities aimed at reducing carbon emissions, supporting the circular economy and achieving climate action targets. ANCILLARY TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE POLICIES Monaghan County Development Plan 2025 – 2031Transport and infrastructurechapter 07
- 192 ATIP 14 Ensure that traffic noise levels are considered as part of new developments along major roads in accordance with best practice guidelines. ATIP 15 Apply the provisions of the County Noise Action Plan to protect the designated ‘Quiet Areas’ within the Plan Area from increased exposure to noise. ATIP 16 A Construction Traffic Management Plan shall be prepared and implemented for all development projects, were appropriate, that may give rise to significant, adverse traffic impacts during their construction phase. ATIP 17 A Mobility Management Plan shall be prepared for all major development in the County, were appropriate. 7.6.6 WINTER SERVICE As part of their remit to maintain and operate the road network, Local Authorities must plan and prepare for severe weather and emergencies. Local Authorities are required to carry out an annual review of their winter operations and prepare a Winter Service Plan prior to the onset of winter. The purpose of the Plan is to identify the processes, procedures and resources utilised in the provision of a winter maintenance service. Monaghan County Council prepares a Winter Maintenance Plan, which endeavours to maintain a clearly defined network of priority traffic routes in a passable condition subject to resource availability. Facilities and resources are required to efficiently treat these routes during winter weather, and modification and expansion of these facilities may be required to support the regular treatment of the road network. WSP 1 To prepare an annual Winter Maintenance Plan to maintain a clearly defined network of priority traffic routes in a passable manner in adverse winter conditions, subject to resource availability. Best available methods should be adopted to ensure winter maintenance activities do not generate significant adverse environmental effects. WINTER SERVICE POLICY 7.7 UTILITIES ALONG THE TRANSPORTATION NETWORK Many water and wastewater services, communication systems and energy networks are routes along linear transport networks, whether through above grounds services or underground in ducts. Maintenance and upgrading of utility services often result in roadworks and the disturbance of the quality of the road pavement surface or the longevity of the surface. While Monaghan County Council will seek to support the provision of utilities across the County, permission to work on the transport network will require a ‘Road Opening Licence’, which can be applied for online via MapRoad Licensing, and must be undertaken in accordance with the ‘Guidelines for Managing Openings in Public Roads’. The needs of all road users must be considered when planning any works on the road network. Permission for the installation of utilities or the licensing of ducting along offroad active travel or recreational walking and cycling routes will be considered on a case by case basis through applications made directly to the Local Authority, subject to demonstration that the installation and future maintenance will not result in the closure of the route, and that any works can be undertaken safely and effectively. Where they are seeking to do this, the same process as a Road Opening Licence will apply. New road projects require the installation of ducts to service the needs of utility companies, and these will be installed in line with relevant design standards, or in partnership with utility companies. Monaghan County Development Plan 2025 – 2031
- 193 7.8 PUBLIC WATER AND WASTEWATER The responsibility of public water supply and wastewater services was transferred to Uisce Éireann, formerly known as Irish Water, in 2014. As Ireland’s national regulated water utility, Uisce Éireann is responsible for the operation of public water services, management of national water assets, maintenance of water infrastructure, planning and investment, capital projects and customer care and billing. The provision and maintenance of quality wastewater treatment infrastructure is critical in the interest of sustainable development and the protection of water quality. Uisce Éireann is responsible for the treatment and disposal of wastewater in serviced towns and villages. Uisce Éireann’s operations are regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency, which sets environmental standards that must be complied with in respect of the provision of waste-water infrastructure. Uisce Éireann’s Wastewater Treatment Capacity Register provides an indication of available capacity at Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs) and the Water Supply Capacity Register provides an indication of available water supply in Monaghan. The registers are updated on an annual basis and are subject to change throughout the year. In respect of future investment priorities Uisce Éireann has prepared a Water Services Strategic Plan (WSSP) which it will review on a five year basis. Additionally, the Capital Investment Plan (CIP) will set out the investment in water service infrastructure over a cycle of five-six years. Monaghan County Council will co-operate with Uisce Éireann to provide and maintain an adequate public water supply and waste water infrastructure network to serve the County over the lifetime of this Development Plan and beyond. Future capital investment in infrastructure will be achieved through the Capital Investment Plan. The 2022 Wastewater Treatment Capacity Register provides an indication of available capacity at Uisce Éireann Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs) in Monaghan. UTNP 1 A licence is required to undertake works on the public transportation network, and the undertaking and reinstatement of those works will be in compliance with the licence. UTNP 2 The licencing or installation of utilities along offroad Active Travel or recreational walking and cycling routes will be considered on a case by case basis, and subject to the utility provider demonstrating that the utility can be managed without adverse impacts on the operation of the route. UTILITIES ALONG THE TRANSPORTATION NETWORK POLICIES WWP 1 To only permit development in instances where there is sufficient capacity in the public water and wastewater infrastructure, subject to executed connection agreement with Uisce Éireann. WATER AND WASTEWATER POLICY WWO 1 To support and co-operate with Uisce Éireann, as appropriate, to deliver a sustainable water services in line with the objectives set out in the Core Strategy. WWO 2 To co-operate with Uisce Éireann in order to identify, prioritise and advance the delivery of appropriately designed water and wastewater projects at appropriate locations, having due regard to the existing constraints and environmental sensitivities and relevant protections, throughout the County during the Development Plan period. WATER AND WASTEWATER OBJECTIVES Monaghan County Development Plan 2025 – 2031Transport and infrastructurechapter 07
- TC0 1 To support the delivery of high-capacity Information Communications Technology Infrastructure and broadband connectivity throughout the County, to promote economic competitiveness and to facilitate more flexible work practices. TC0 2 To co-operate with the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications and public and private agencies where appropriate, in improving high quality fixed and mobile broadband infrastructure throughout the County. TC0 3 To achieve a balance between facilitating the provision of telecommunications infrastructure in the interests of economic and social progress and maintaining residential amenity and environmental quality. TC0 4 To comply with all of the infrastructure provisions that are set out under the EU Gigabit Infrastructure Act. TC0 5 To support and encourage engagement between telecommunication providers and local residents, prior to the installation of telecommunication infrastructure. 194 7.9 TELECOMMUNICATIONS Project Ireland 2040 is the Government’s overarching policy initiative ‘to make Ireland a better country for all of us, a country that reflects the best of who we are and what we aspire to be.’ Within Project Ireland 2040, the National Planning Framework sets out shared national development goals, including improved living standards, quality of life, prosperity, competitiveness and environmental sustainability, to be more broadly considered. The NPF 2040 identifies and outlines ten National Strategic Outcomes (NSOs) and National Planning Objectives (NPO). The following NPOs are particularly relevant to telecommunications: k NPO 24 - Support and facilitate delivery of the National Broadband Plan as a means of developing further opportunities for enterprise, employment, education, innovation and skills development for those who live and work in rural areas. k NPO 48 - In co-operation with relevant Departments in Northern Ireland, develop a stable, innovative and secure digital communications and services infrastructure on an all-island basis. The existence of a high quality and sustainable telecommunications network is vital to the continued growth of the economy and the quality of life in the County. There have been considerable advancements in the provision of telecommunications infrastructure in the last two decades. Broadband is central to the development of a knowledge-based economy and can help to combat social exclusion by providing access to information and services in the areas of education, banking, research and business. It is also acknowledged that small cell deployment within the County is likely to increase during the lifetime of the Development Plan, such technologies shall be sensitively located to ensure connectivity whilst protecting community wellbeing. The National Broadband Plan has as its objective to make high speed broadband available and accessible to all homes and businesses throughout the country. As the Country move towards the objectives for digital development and increased digital public services outlined in “Our Rural Future” and “Harnessing Digital”, we must also recognise the need for a “Digital First” approach which includes the development of digital infrastructure, increased digital skills development and digital communities. TCSO 1 To facilitate the development of a high quality and sustainable telecommunications network for County Monaghan to support economic growth, improve quality of life and enhance social inclusion. TELECOMMUNICATIONS STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE TELECOMMUNICATIONS OBJECTIVES Monaghan County Development Plan 2025 – 2031
- 195 TC0 6 To seek to futureproof all new buildings and infrastructure projects and to facilitate greater competition between service providers by ensuring the provision of additional ducts which will allow access for multiple telecommunications operators. TC0 7 To future proof areas for the delivery of digital and telecommunications services through the provision of additional ducts and sub-ducts during the development phase for roads, pavements, greenways, industrial and residential developments. 7.10 PROTECTIVE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES Monaghan Fire and Civil Protection is a service provided by Monaghan County Council. The Council also operates the Monaghan Civil Defence Service. 7.10.1 MONAGHAN FIRE AND CIVIL PROTECTION The Monaghan Fire and Civil Protection delivers a front-line emergency service charged with the task to protect its people and property from fire and accidents. The Fire Authority is a retained fire service, and it is responsible for the delivery of fire services to the entire County 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. A key role of Monaghan Fire and Civil Protection involves the operation of the fire-fighting service and the delivery of fire prevention. Not only is it responsible for the extinguishment of fires within the County, but it also responds to road traffic collisions, hazardous material incidents, flooding and oil spillages. In the event of an emergency the primary role of Monaghan Fire and Civil Protection is to ensure life safety. It will ensure that danger areas are made safe in order to permit other agencies to undertake their recovery and rehabilitation operations. The fire-fighting service involves sixty-three retained Fire-Fighters and five Senior Officers, along with administrative support staff based in Monaghan Fire Station and operates in five fire stations located in each of the main towns. Appropriate facilities and accommodation are required to ensure the Fire Service can cater for and train its workforce, safely and securely, house its machinery, and store the equipment needed to deliver a quality service. Monaghan Fire and Civil Protection also delivers on the requirements stipulated in the Building Control Regulations 1997 to 2021 which includes the administration of the Building Control Management System (BCMS), Commencement Notices, Fire Safety Certifications, Regularisation Certificates, Disability Access Certifications and Certificates of Compliance, and also includes the undertaking of inspections by the Building Control Officers in accordance with statutory requirements. 7.10.2 CIVIL DEFENCE Monaghan Civil Defence Service provides back up to front line emergency services when required. It plays a very important role in assisting the front-line services with trained personnel to respond to emergencies in addition to supporting and facilitating community activities. The Civil Defence staff learn skills in an active and resourceful group, which develops them and serves communities throughout the County. The volunteers provide support during flooding incidents, water shortages and search and rescue missions. Monaghan Civil Defence consists of over fifty-five volunteers under the command of the County Civil Defence Officer and Assistant Civil Defence Officer, who provide a variety of services, including first aid and ambulance cover, stewarding, search and rescue/recovery services (on land and water) and auxiliary fire services. Appropriate facilities and accommodation are required to ensure the Civil Defence can perform its functions. PESO 1 To provide for adequate accommodation such as fire stations on suitable sites in County Monaghan and to facilitate accommodation of Monaghan Fire and Civil Protection vehicles and personnel welfare provisions in appropriate locations. PESO 2 To provide and support facilities to operate the various Civil Defence Activities. PROTECTIVE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES OBJECTIVES Monaghan County Development Plan 2025 – 2031Transport and infrastructurechapter 07
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- 197 chapter 08 environment, energy and climate action Monaghan County Development Plan 2025 – 2031
- 8.0 INTRODUCTION The environment is a valuable and essential resource, however it is increasingly vulnerable due to the growth in population, economic development, intensive farming and other factors. Monaghan County Council seeks to adequately manage and protect the quality of the environment through the various policies set out in this chapter. The Council aims to deliver high standards of protection for water and air, promote sustainable waste management through education and regulation, and to prevent and mitigate the anticipated impacts of climate change by reducing our dependency on finite resources and committing to a low carbon future. The protection of the environmental quality of County Monaghan is intrinsically linked with other strategic objectives in the Development Plan in respect of transport, settlement pattern, core strategy and heritage. 8.1 WATER RESOURCES AND QUALITY The increase in population, development pressures and intensification of agriculture over recent decades has led to increased risk of environmental pollution, particularly of our natural water systems. We depend on our water resources for drinking water, as a raw material for agriculture and industry and as an important element for amenity and recreation. The quality of water is also important for fisheries, tourism, wildlife conservation and habitat protection. Apart from its practical use, water is an integral part of our natural and cultural heritage. There is a wealth of aquatic habitats such as bogs, wetlands, lakes, rivers and streams in County Monaghan. An often undervalued aspect of our water resources are wetlands which provide buffering against flood waters and natural purification by entrapment of sediments and nutrients. Restoration of degraded waters is a complex and slow process. As the demand on water increases, so too does the need to protect the quality and quantity of our water resources for public health, economic development and ecological protection. 8.1.1 WATER MANAGEMENT The River Basin Management Plan (RBMP) covers the entire geographical area of the Republic of Ireland. The RBMP sets out the measures necessary to protect and improve the quality of our waters. These plans are prepared in 6-year cycles, during which a programme of measures must be implemented to achieve water quality objectives. Good water quality contributes to protecting human health by improving the quality of drinking water sources and bathing waters. The RBMP 2018-2021 was published in April 2018, and it encompassed a new approach to catchment management and included selected waterbodies for action. The Local Authority Waters Programme (LAWPRO) lead on the implementation of measures in these areas for action. Northern Ireland is currently in the latter stages of preparing the third cycle RBMP 2022-2027. The 2022-2027 RBMP builds on the 2018-2021 plan and expands on the approach taken for the second cycle where Priority Areas for Action were managed by the LAWPRO. The current approach is designed to provide ‘a place in the plan for everyone’ by including a wider selection of Areas for Action (AfA) incorporating Areas for Protection, Areas for Restoration and Areas for Catchment Projects. Table 8.1 and Figure 8.1 indicate the Proposed Areas for Action in County Monaghan. 198 Monaghan County Development Plan 2025 – 2031 ENVIRONMENT, ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE EECSO 1 To afford a high level of environmental protection in County Monaghan through: k the provision of quality environmental services which adhere to the precautionary principle, k the adoption and application of the principles of sustainable development, k the promotion of reduced energy consumption, energy efficiency and renewable energy to deliver a low carbon future for County Monaghan, and k the implementation of measures to reduce the human causes of climate change and to consider its effects when formulating Development Plan policies.
Source Monaghan County Council: Monaghan County Development Plan 2025–2031 (2025–2031) · 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.