This article is from page 22 of the 2008-05-20 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 22 JPG
CLARE County Council has refused planning permission for the coun- ty’s largest ever residential housing scheme although they approve of the plan in principle.
In March, Ennis-based construction firm, Crystal Partners lodged plans for a €200 million development that would ultimately deliver 700 new homes in the Gaurus area on the eastern outskirts of Ennis. The 471 residential units in the first phase of the development would have almost doubled the current population of the Doora parish to almost 3,000.
The council concluded that while it approved of housing development on the 71 acre site, such a move was pre- mature pending the construction of a new €75 million sewage treatment plan at Clareabbey.
The council does not expect the Clareabbey plant to come on stream for another four years and permission was also refused because of deficien- cies in the public water supply.
The Gaurus plan faced initial op- position from local residents and planning was refused on a number of other grounds apart from the lack of sewage and water supplies.
The council ruled that the mix of
apartment units in large blocks would be inconsistent with the existing char- acter and pattern of development in the area. The planners were also con- cerned about possible negative effects on the existing ecology, habitat value and hydrogeology of the site.
The council also stated that the pro- posed works to Gaurus Bridge, in- cluding the removal of both parapet stone walls and the building of foot- path and cycle paths on each side, would have a direct negative impact on the integrity and amenity of this structure and would be contrary to the Ennis and Environs Plan.
The council also ruled that the pro-
posal would present a serious traffic hazard.
The first phase of the Gaurus Village plan was valued at €125 million by the developers with the overall value of €200 million put on the plan.
Along with the 471 residential units, the planning application also provided for a creche, neighbour- hood centre with shopping facilities and 14 residential serviced sites.
The masterplan also provides for a 16-teacher school and an associated OeNenrteasatellen