This article is from page 12 of the 2007-08-28 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 12 JPG
AMBITIOUS plans to construct a new hotel on the Main Street of the north Clare resort of Lahinch have been described as ‘ludicrous’.
In a hard hitting objection against the planning application lodged by William Stackpoole, Pat Kenny of Main Street, Lahinch claims, “This proposed development is over-build of the worst kind.
“This is a village. This site is a cottage with a small yard and some outhouses. The proposal to build 16 apartments, restaurant, bar, recep- tion areas on this small site is ludi- crous and has already been refused by An Bord Pleanala.”
Mr Kenny states, “This develop- ment does not materially differ from the previous application that was re- fused by An Bord Pleanala. The cur- rent proposal shows only cosmetic differences from the previously re- fused plan and none of the root issues of the refusal have been addressed.
He adds, “The construction of this underground car-park will…compro- mise the structure of Kenny Woollen Mills and Avondale Apartment Block to the south of the development.
“The excavation of the basement car-park would certainly cause the
older part of Kenny Woollen Mills building to shift its foundations.
‘The proposed deck at the rear will be used as a smoking area for the pa- trons of the adjoining dining room with the associated noise and pollu- tion to neighbouring apartments and business. This is a development that… will have long-lasting effects on my TELOMLom AU OC-beomee
In his objection, Donal Kenny states, “I own a building, Kenny Woollen Mills, directly south of the site. This proposed development would seriously devalue my proper- ty…My building is being overlooked by this proposed development. We will have windows facing directly into apartments and commercial ar- eas. Privacy 1s compromised.”
In response to the concerns raised by the Kennys, the council has re- quested that Mr Stackepoole lodge revised plans, confirming that the council has a number of concerns over the scheme.
The council state that the plan would result in overlooking and over- shadowing. In its request for over-de- velopment and also stated that the increase in height of the building where there is a lane has the potential to result in a location for anti-social behaviour, especially at night.