This article is from page 20 of the 2007-07-03 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 20 JPG
LOCALS in south-east Clare have voiced their opposition against re- newed plans by a local businessman to construct a helipad on a farm near Clonlara.
Last year, residents secured vic- tory in their opposition against well- known local businessman, Peter Stritch to construct a helicopter land- ing pad at Clonlara.
In a submission lodged with the council, Mr Stritch’s consultants state that “the landing pad will be solely for the landing of a “Bell 206 Jetanger’ helicopter which is the property of Alpine helicopters, one of Mr Stritch’s businesses.
“The landing area will not be used commercially and will solely be for Mr Stritch and his family business and leisure trips and can be regarded as associated or ancillary use of the house to the north of the application.
“The noise is comparable to that generated by heavy machinery and farm vehicles…
“As the nearest dwelling is 240 me- tres from the proposed landing area, the noise levels would be significant- ly less. The noise levels during the periods when helicopter activities take place on site will increase above the EPA daytime noise control level.
However, the activities shall be in-
termittent in nature, with a take-off and landing time of 10 minutes at the site and we would not deem the noise to be a nuisance.
However, local resident, Dr David Beckett stated, “I must object to this development on the grounds of noise, disturbance, smell, safety issues and loss of amenity.
‘Peter Stritch has been operating a commercial helicopter company un- der the name of Alpine helicopters from this farm, without permission, for over three years.
“Many different helicopters have used the site and I understand that it has served as a helicopter stop-over. They fly in all directions, all year round and seven days a week.
“A large concrete base already exists nearby on which I have seen three helicopters at any one time and beside it is a large shed, which has been used to store the helicopters.
“The request for a new helicopter would suggest an increase in heli- copter business activity.
‘There is a nearby airfield at Coon- agh and beyond that at Shannon air- port. the location of a helipad on a farm with houses nearby does not seem logical. it is alongside a gallop for horses so the safety of horses and of riders is at stake.
A decision is due on the application later this year.