An Bord Pleanála has granted permission for part of a controversial commercial and residential development in the Co Galway heritage town of Athenry, but has refused permission for another part of the development in a split decision.
The Western Regional Fisheries Board and others had appealed against the decision made in September of 2005 by Galway County Council to grant permission to Oyster Homes Ltd, for the development. The proposal was for a residential and commercial scheme of over seven hectares, located on the Athenry House lands off Abbey Row and the junction of Cross Street and Barrack Street, which includes the River Clarin and part of the town walls, the site of Spittle Gate and Athenry House, a protected structure.
The proposed development of over 26,000 square metres would comprise 578 car parking spaces, 135 residential units, a creche, a public house, a restaurant, a mixed use retail and office block and an 81-bed hotel.
An Bord Pleanála have decided to grant permission for the proposed development on the western side of the River Clarin, subject to conditions and to refuse permission for the proposed development on the eastern side of the river.
The decision states: "Having regard to the provisions of the current Development Plan for the area wherein Athenry is designated as one of five Galway city satellite towns, the predominant zoning of the site for mixed use residential, retail and commercial neighbourhood, the proximity of the proposed development to the established town centre of Athenry and proposals for the conservation of Athenry House and other protected structures, it is considered that, subject to compliance with the conditions set out below, the proposed development west of the River Clarin would not adversely affect the historic town or walls of Athenry, or the economic vitality of Athenry, would be acceptable in terms of traffic safety and convenience, would not be prejudicial to public health by reason of the provision of a temporary wastewater treatment plant, would not adversely affect the archaeological or architectural heritage of the area and would, therefore, be in accordance with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area."
The entire development on the east side of the river is to be omitted due to inadequate sewerage facilities and the creation of serious traffic congestion.
"It is considered that the proposed development would detract from the landscape setting of the town wall as perceived from the surrounding rural environment and would, by reason of inadequate passive overlooking of the town walls, adversely affect the security and integrity of the walls, which it is necessary to preserve.
"The proposed development, east of the River Clarin, would therefore, seriously injure the amenities of the area, and would be contrary to proper planning and sustainable development of the area," the ruling states.
