Thumbs down for large scale development in Tullamore
Bord Pleanala uphold decision by Offaly County Council
AN Bord Pleanala has upheld a decision by Offaly County Council to refuse permission for a large scale residential development in Tullamore.
Applicant Cayenne Holdings headed up by businessman Seamus Kane had sought to construct 204 apartments, retail, office and childcare facilities in 6 blocks ranging in height from 2-13 storeys and all associated development and site works on the former Tesco/Texas site between Patrick Street, Offaly Street and Kilbride Plaza.
The proposed development included refurbishment of a protected structure (D.E. Williams House).
In reaching its decision, An Bord Pleanala said the excessive density of the development would be contrary to the Ministerial Guidelines, the Offaly County Development Plan 2021-2027 and the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.
It contended that it would be ''visually overbearing and an incongruous addition to the streetscape and contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.''
It was also concerned about the increase in traffic. The Board said ''it was not satisfied that the proposed development would not endanger public safety by reason of traffic hazard and would lead to conflict between road users, including vehicular traffic, pedestrians and cyclists particularly in the vicinity of Offaly Street, Columcille Street and Bury quay environs.
It concluded the ''development would therefore be contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.''