This article is from page 2 of the 2008-06-24 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 2 JPG
COMPETITION in the Kilrush retail trade is set to increase with plans lodged for an Aldi outlet in the OD e0k
Cracken Properties Ltd has lodged plans with Kilrush Town Council for a single storey discount foodstore, eight retail units, five office suites and parking spaces for 107 cars.
The proposed store is to be located on a 1.4 acre site on the Ennis Road. It is the second time that the Limer- ick-based company has applied for permission to construct a discount store at the location.
Last November, the council refused planning permission for another
building on the site because of inad- equate sight distance to the east and west of the entrance which would cause a traffic hazard and endanger public safety.
The council ruled that the proposal would materially contravene the Kilrush Development Plan which requires that such development will not be prejudicial to the amenities of the area.
In their latest submission to the town council, Cracken Properties say the reasons for refusal have been carefully reviewed and they have ful- ly addressed all issues and concerns raised. They also maintain that the development will form a natural and sustainable extension to the existing
Odo 0 eros eB Ken
The company contends that the na- ture of the discount store – which will only provide for part of customer’s overall retail needs – will encourage them to use other stores in Kilrush to complete their shopping.
“This would create synergy be- tween the store and existing conven- 1ence outlets,’ the submission states.
“The site is currently vacant with a neglected appearance which does not contribute to the visual ameni- ties of the area. The proposal pro- vides an opportunity to enhance the streetscape along the Ennis Road and regenerate a derelict and under-used property.
“The inclusion of a discount food-
store in the scheme will improve competition and consumer choice by providing an additional convenience retail facility in the town.
“The retail policies of the Kilrush Town Development Plan acknowl- edge that further retail facilities are needed in the town to reduce the level of expenditure leakage to larger urban centres such as Ennis, Galway and Limerick and improve the retail offer in the town.
‘The proposed development is con- sistent with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area. It complies with the provisions of the retail planning guidelines and is con- sistent with national, regional and lo- cal planning policy.”