This article is from page 22 of the 2005-08-23 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 22 JPG
THE way is now clear for the provision of a privately run three- storey medical centre, which will form part of a new commercial development on the outskirts of Ennis town centre.
The masterplan being driven by T Sheils & Co for the company’s flagship site on the Ennis-Galway Rd also includes the proposed new McDonalds for Ennis, along with a new supermarket and six two-storey retail units.
The ambitious plan will also see the development of underground and overground car-parking fa- cilities, along with a stand-alone petrol station.
The existing showrooms and shop will be demolished.
With an Bord Pleanala giving the medical centre component the go-ahead, the only remaining aspect of the masterplan yet to get the green-light is the McDonalds drive-thru restaurant, where a de- cision 1s expected in October.
However, as part of the condi- tions attached to the permission, the appeals board has ruled that
the medical centre shall not be occupied until the Ennis by-pass is complete in the interests of traffic safety with the by-pass project not expected to be com- plete by April 2007.
The development – when com- plete – 1s expected to further in- crease the value and profits of the Sheils Company.
The Ford dealer, which has out- lets in Ennis, Limerick and Gal- way, recorded a turnover of €32.5 million to the end of October last year employing 60 people.
Ennis Town Council granted planning permission for the med- ical centre earlier this year, how- ever it was appealed to An Bord Pleanala by local resident, Brian Crowe of 79 Elm Park, Gort Rd, Syabavhy
Mr. Crowe claimed that the de- velopment of the medical centre 22 metres from his home is unac- ceptable.
However, T Sheils & Co point- ed out to the appeals board that the development is in close prox- imity to St Joseph’s Hospital and will provide primary care and personal social services.
The company stated: “This is in keeping with the 2001 Health Strategy issued by the Depart- ment of Health and Children.”
They also argued that the pro- posal is not significantly higher than the existing dwellings, nor in close proximity, therefore over- shadowing will not be significant and therefore the proposed devel- opment will not seriously injure residential amenity.
As aresult of the inspector’s de- cision to grant planning permis- sion, the Board ruled that “having regard to the zoning of the site of the proposed development in the current Development Plan for the area and the pattern of develop- ment in the area.
“It 1s considered that the pro- posal would be compatible with other permitted uses, would not seriously injure residential amen- ity and would be acceptable in terms of traffic safety and con- venience.
“The proposed development would, therefore, be in accord- ance with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.”