PLANS FOR a massive sporting development at Brides Head, including three pitches and an all-weather running track, have been dashed as Wicklow County Council rejected the proposals.
The Town Council had high hopes for the state-of-the-art facility having lodged plans with Wicklow County Council in early June. But this week the council refused the application due to concerns over its impact on the environment and the serious traffic hazard it could present. The development would have consisted of three playing fields and ancillary clubhouse facilities. The smaller of the three pitches included a perimeter all weather running track. The main pitch would be floodlit and boast a double sided stand accommodating 150 spectators on one side and 75 spectators on the other.
Car parks would have provided spaces for 180 vehicles, while the clubhouse consisted of eight changing rooms, an officials changing room, a gymnasium and weights room, a bar and function room and a multipurpose sports hall.
However, the planning department had problems with the location of the development on a prominent headland, Brides Head's landscape designation as an area of outstanding natural beauty, the impact it would have on nearby protected structures Wicklow Old Lighthouse and Old Semifore and the lack of adequate visual assessment.
According to the planning department 'It is considered that no proper assessment has been carried out of the impact of the development on the Wicklow Head proposed Natural Heritage Area and Candidate Special Protection Area, and in the absence of such information the development is likely to degrade this important environmentally sensitive area.'
The refusal report also states, 'Inadequate assessment has been submitted to show that the existing road network in the vicinity is adequate to cater for the traffic movements generated by the development, and in the absence of such information the development would represent a traffic hazard.'
Myles BUCHANAN
Wicklow People
Showing posts with label wicklow planners. Show all posts
Showing posts with label wicklow planners. Show all posts
Friday, 14 August 2009
Sunday, 27 July 2008
Planning issue over Wicklow airport
PROCEEDINGS have been issued against the operator of a small private airfield in Co Wicklow over fears he is covertly transforming it into a commercial base for private jets.
John Nugent, the leaseholder of Newcastle Aerodrome – which is typically home to light aircraft – has denied the claims but refused to rule out the future possibility of higher grade aircraft landing at the facility.
"Everyone thinks there is going to be a huge international airport but come on; it's a bog in the middle of Wicklow," he told the Sunday Tribune.
However, if he fails to adhere to a warning letter sent from planning officials he could face two years in prison and a fine of up to €12.7m.
Nugent has put the complaints down to the meddling of "two or three individuals" but they were enough for Wicklow County Council to launch an onsite investigation and, finally, a warning notice last week.
The notice relates to the alleged "change of use of private airfield to commercial use without the benefit of planning permission."
"First of all it will be just flying lessons and then it will be private jets and such," said councillor Derek Mitchell, "and people don't want that."
He added: "Just like Weston (airport), it used to be a little bit commercial but then they laid down tarmac and now there are jets. It was small and amateur 30 years ago, now people pay to run private jets."
According to Nugent there are around 30 light aircraft and up to 65 members at Newcastle.
But responding to "quite a few" public complaints since he took over the lease three months ago, Wicklow County Council sent inspectors to the aerodrome. They found a number of concerns.
These included the change of use of an agricultural shed to an aircraft hangar, the provision of car parking, an onsite museum, the erection of fencing, advertising, the construction or alteration of aprons and airside roadways for aircraft and even a small refreshment area where pilots can drink tea.
The council has now officially notified Nugent of those aspects and he has four weeks in which to respond with details of what he intends to do to rectify the situation.
Failing that, the council will issue an enforcement notice obliging him to amend the issues before legal proceedings are initiated as a last resort.
A council source told the Sunday Tribune that Nugent's actions on the airfield were akin to using a house as a hotel.
Nugent then said that trying to operate a commercial airport in the Newcastle Aerodrome was akin to hosting the Irish Open golf tournament on a pitch and putt course.
"There is absolutely nothing going on," he said.
"We have airplane activity and there are two or three residents trying to stir it. But it's a storm in a tea cup."
Nugent insists the fencing is to keep cows off the runway and, as an Irish man, he likes to offer his pilots a cup of tea when they land.
"I am chasing a dream here; this is not about a commercial operation."
Sunday Tribune
www.buckplanning.ie
John Nugent, the leaseholder of Newcastle Aerodrome – which is typically home to light aircraft – has denied the claims but refused to rule out the future possibility of higher grade aircraft landing at the facility.
"Everyone thinks there is going to be a huge international airport but come on; it's a bog in the middle of Wicklow," he told the Sunday Tribune.
However, if he fails to adhere to a warning letter sent from planning officials he could face two years in prison and a fine of up to €12.7m.
Nugent has put the complaints down to the meddling of "two or three individuals" but they were enough for Wicklow County Council to launch an onsite investigation and, finally, a warning notice last week.
The notice relates to the alleged "change of use of private airfield to commercial use without the benefit of planning permission."
"First of all it will be just flying lessons and then it will be private jets and such," said councillor Derek Mitchell, "and people don't want that."
He added: "Just like Weston (airport), it used to be a little bit commercial but then they laid down tarmac and now there are jets. It was small and amateur 30 years ago, now people pay to run private jets."
According to Nugent there are around 30 light aircraft and up to 65 members at Newcastle.
But responding to "quite a few" public complaints since he took over the lease three months ago, Wicklow County Council sent inspectors to the aerodrome. They found a number of concerns.
These included the change of use of an agricultural shed to an aircraft hangar, the provision of car parking, an onsite museum, the erection of fencing, advertising, the construction or alteration of aprons and airside roadways for aircraft and even a small refreshment area where pilots can drink tea.
The council has now officially notified Nugent of those aspects and he has four weeks in which to respond with details of what he intends to do to rectify the situation.
Failing that, the council will issue an enforcement notice obliging him to amend the issues before legal proceedings are initiated as a last resort.
A council source told the Sunday Tribune that Nugent's actions on the airfield were akin to using a house as a hotel.
Nugent then said that trying to operate a commercial airport in the Newcastle Aerodrome was akin to hosting the Irish Open golf tournament on a pitch and putt course.
"There is absolutely nothing going on," he said.
"We have airplane activity and there are two or three residents trying to stir it. But it's a storm in a tea cup."
Nugent insists the fencing is to keep cows off the runway and, as an Irish man, he likes to offer his pilots a cup of tea when they land.
"I am chasing a dream here; this is not about a commercial operation."
Sunday Tribune
www.buckplanning.ie
Thursday, 3 July 2008
Tourist centre planned for Kilmurray
A planning application has been lodged by P. Sexton with Wicklow County Council for aninterpretative and tourist information centre, arts and crafts building and alterations and extensions to garden centre building with associated external areas. Demolish outbuildings and close road entrance off N11 at Kilmurray South and Kilmurray North, Kilmacanogue, Co Wicklow.
www.buckplanning.ie
www.buckplanning.ie
Sunday, 6 January 2008
Marina scheme spells the end for Greystones surfers
Surfers from the East Coast Surf Club caught their final few waves at Greystones harbour, Co Wicklow, yesterday, before its closure for a €300 million redevelopment programme, which begins next week.
Kevin Cavey, who in 1965 founded the club, then known as the Bray Head Surf Club, said its 155 members were unlikely to be able to surf at the harbour even after the development was completed.
"Mostly when a marina goes in it kills off the natural wave, so it is unlikely that we will be able to return to Greystones because the surf won't break there anymore, it will just be backwash."
The end of surfing at Greystones follows the recent closure of several popular surfing areas by private developers in the Brittas Bay area of Wicklow, Mr Cavey said.
"Greystones is just another casualty in the diminishing access to surfing beaches."
The new harbour, due to be completed in 2012, will include a 230-berth marina, 341 residential units and 5,500sq m of commercial units, incorporating cafes and restaurants.
Wicklow County Council received planning permission for the development from An Bórd Pleanála last August following two oral hearings, despite strong local opposition to the scheme.
The Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Kevin Cavey, who in 1965 founded the club, then known as the Bray Head Surf Club, said its 155 members were unlikely to be able to surf at the harbour even after the development was completed.
"Mostly when a marina goes in it kills off the natural wave, so it is unlikely that we will be able to return to Greystones because the surf won't break there anymore, it will just be backwash."
The end of surfing at Greystones follows the recent closure of several popular surfing areas by private developers in the Brittas Bay area of Wicklow, Mr Cavey said.
"Greystones is just another casualty in the diminishing access to surfing beaches."
The new harbour, due to be completed in 2012, will include a 230-berth marina, 341 residential units and 5,500sq m of commercial units, incorporating cafes and restaurants.
Wicklow County Council received planning permission for the development from An Bórd Pleanála last August following two oral hearings, despite strong local opposition to the scheme.
The Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Friday, 26 October 2007
Dunlavin presents wish list' to County Council
Dunlavin residents have made their feelings clear with a wishlist for the upcoming town plan, with demands for better water and sewerage services being their main concerns.Six members of the Dunlavin and District Forum handed in the community document to members of the county council executive at a meeting on Tuesday evening. The document had been distributed to every home in t
Dunlavin residents have made their feelings clear with a wishlist for the upcoming town plan, with demands for better water and sewerage services being their main concerns.
Six members of the Dunlavin and District Forum handed in the community document to members of the county council executive at a meeting on Tuesday evening. The document had been distributed to every home in the area in order to collect everyone's input.
While water and sewerage were the two main issues highlighted, other recommendations revolved around the economy, social life, education, recreation, sport, housing and architecture.
The documents represents the feelings of everyone living in Dunlavin. Other local organisations also met with council members to outline their concerns.
A further meeting is also in the pipe line though no fixed date has been organised.
Wicklow People
Dunlavin residents have made their feelings clear with a wishlist for the upcoming town plan, with demands for better water and sewerage services being their main concerns.
Six members of the Dunlavin and District Forum handed in the community document to members of the county council executive at a meeting on Tuesday evening. The document had been distributed to every home in the area in order to collect everyone's input.
While water and sewerage were the two main issues highlighted, other recommendations revolved around the economy, social life, education, recreation, sport, housing and architecture.
The documents represents the feelings of everyone living in Dunlavin. Other local organisations also met with council members to outline their concerns.
A further meeting is also in the pipe line though no fixed date has been organised.
Wicklow People
Friday, 27 July 2007
Abwood in Wicklow granted nine month stay on order
Troubled local company, Abwood, has been granted a stay of nine months on a High Court order which directed them to cease operations on their site at Timore, Newcastle.
The company returned to the High Court last Thursday following the judgement of Mr Justice Charlton the previous week who agreed with Wicklow County Council that the company was in breach of planning regulations. The council objected strongly to a stay of longer than three months last Thursday. However, Abwood was granted nine months in which time it hopes to regularise its planning situation.
While this means that we did not have to put employees on notice immediately, it still leaves us with little time to see what can be done with the factory and site to achieve a mutually acceptable way forward,' stated Abwood's financial controller, Breda Hamilton.
Wicklow People
The company returned to the High Court last Thursday following the judgement of Mr Justice Charlton the previous week who agreed with Wicklow County Council that the company was in breach of planning regulations. The council objected strongly to a stay of longer than three months last Thursday. However, Abwood was granted nine months in which time it hopes to regularise its planning situation.
While this means that we did not have to put employees on notice immediately, it still leaves us with little time to see what can be done with the factory and site to achieve a mutually acceptable way forward,' stated Abwood's financial controller, Breda Hamilton.
Wicklow People
Monday, 18 June 2007
Planning sought for Carnew Church land, County Wicklow
The Celtic Tiger is well and truly alive in rural Carnew, with the local Church of Ireland select vestry hoping to cash in on the property boom by developing four apartments on church land.
While the traditional image of select vestries is of organising fetes and coffee mornings, the group at the All Saints Church in Carnew are currently seeking planning permission for a four-apartment development in Lower Main Street, Carnew, on the site of the old parish hall.
An application for an eight-unit development from the same group last year was refused by the Wicklow County Council.
Select vestry member Harold Young said the main aim of the project was to raise funds for the church.
It is a very good way of raising finance,' he said.
Mr Young said the church had redesigned the development to meet the council's concerns over last year's larger proposal.
It's still a very early stage,' he said, and it can be very hard to get planning (permission).'
Wicklow People
While the traditional image of select vestries is of organising fetes and coffee mornings, the group at the All Saints Church in Carnew are currently seeking planning permission for a four-apartment development in Lower Main Street, Carnew, on the site of the old parish hall.
An application for an eight-unit development from the same group last year was refused by the Wicklow County Council.
Select vestry member Harold Young said the main aim of the project was to raise funds for the church.
It is a very good way of raising finance,' he said.
Mr Young said the church had redesigned the development to meet the council's concerns over last year's larger proposal.
It's still a very early stage,' he said, and it can be very hard to get planning (permission).'
Wicklow People
Friday, 1 June 2007
Dempsey wants sewage plant objectors to cut the crap' now
Arklow Town Councillor Peter Dempsey wants to lift the lid on the issue of Arklow's sewerage treatment plant and flush away any more delays to the project.
He erected a sign on the 19 Arches Bridge on Tuesday night urging the plant's objectors to Cut the Crap'.
I'm just sick of the delays,' he said. We're talking about all these election promises yet there's nothing about the plant. When I put the sign up there was still s*** floating below the bridge.'
He urged Arklow residents to sign a new online petition calling for the plant to be fast-tracked.
The petition was created by the Arklow Sea Scouts and is located at www.arklowseascouts.ie/sewage/. Since its creation last Tuesday (May 15), it has attracted more than 240 signatures and comments of support.
© Wicklow People
He erected a sign on the 19 Arches Bridge on Tuesday night urging the plant's objectors to Cut the Crap'.
I'm just sick of the delays,' he said. We're talking about all these election promises yet there's nothing about the plant. When I put the sign up there was still s*** floating below the bridge.'
He urged Arklow residents to sign a new online petition calling for the plant to be fast-tracked.
The petition was created by the Arklow Sea Scouts and is located at www.arklowseascouts.ie/sewage/. Since its creation last Tuesday (May 15), it has attracted more than 240 signatures and comments of support.
© Wicklow People
Monday, 14 May 2007
Residents baffled about why property remains vacant Empty house used as dumping ground
An empty house in the middle of a Rathnew housing estate has become a dumping ground, leaving residents baffled by its vacant status.
The house, number 25, is part of the council and affordable housing scheme at Drumkay and has been vacant for at least three years.
Now a build-up of illegally dumped rubbish and the overgrown nature of the garden is attracting rats, forcing neighbours of the house to keep their children indoors because of invading vermin.
The premises is one of the affordable houses included in the scheme but no one has yet to actually move into the home. Repeated efforts to get Wicklow County Council to clean up the garden belonging to the house and to repair a number of broken windows have fallen on deaf ears.
According to a spokesperson for the Drumkay Residents Association, 'this premises is causing all sorts of problems for everyone living in the estate. The garden is covered in all kinds of rubbish, including domestic waste, and has started attracting rats. A number of neighbours have seen them running around their back gardens and are afraid to let their children out to play in case they are bitten. The grass is also completely overgrown, and we think the rats are breeding there.'
The spokesperson added that the council have been contacted on a number of occasions, but so far to no avail. A series of broken windows were also reported by parents concerned that some local children may end up cutting themselves if they become curious and wander into the home.
'Its not only dangerous, but also an eye-sore. Its only a matter of time before it starts attracting all kinds of anti-social behaviour,' concluded the Drumkay Residents Association spokesperson.
When contacted by the Wicklow People, the Wicklow County Council housing department acknowledged that their had been difficulties over the sale of the house but said that talks are nearing completion and a sale is likely to take place soon.
Wicklow People
The house, number 25, is part of the council and affordable housing scheme at Drumkay and has been vacant for at least three years.
Now a build-up of illegally dumped rubbish and the overgrown nature of the garden is attracting rats, forcing neighbours of the house to keep their children indoors because of invading vermin.
The premises is one of the affordable houses included in the scheme but no one has yet to actually move into the home. Repeated efforts to get Wicklow County Council to clean up the garden belonging to the house and to repair a number of broken windows have fallen on deaf ears.
According to a spokesperson for the Drumkay Residents Association, 'this premises is causing all sorts of problems for everyone living in the estate. The garden is covered in all kinds of rubbish, including domestic waste, and has started attracting rats. A number of neighbours have seen them running around their back gardens and are afraid to let their children out to play in case they are bitten. The grass is also completely overgrown, and we think the rats are breeding there.'
The spokesperson added that the council have been contacted on a number of occasions, but so far to no avail. A series of broken windows were also reported by parents concerned that some local children may end up cutting themselves if they become curious and wander into the home.
'Its not only dangerous, but also an eye-sore. Its only a matter of time before it starts attracting all kinds of anti-social behaviour,' concluded the Drumkay Residents Association spokesperson.
When contacted by the Wicklow People, the Wicklow County Council housing department acknowledged that their had been difficulties over the sale of the house but said that talks are nearing completion and a sale is likely to take place soon.
Wicklow People
Major masterplan for The Murrough
A hotel, apartment blocks, and a civic area could be constructed on The Murrough in Wicklow town following the unveiling of a new plan drawn up for the Town Council.
The 'Concept Masterplan for The Murrough' sees the hotel being constructed on the site of the former Veha radiators factory. Also included are five blocks of apartments which span the area between Veha and Urban Villas.
A civic centre also forms part of the plan. This would comprise retail, commercial and leisure uses surrounding a small square.
At least three of these apartment blocks are planned for land which is currently occupied by a selection of businesses including the government buildings office and Wicklow Enterprise Park along with other private concerns.
The plan has been described by Town Manager, Michael Nicholson, as 'merely a plan'. 'It in itself won't actually lead to any development happening. It is up to individuals, if they wish to do so, to apply for planning...the plan merely ensures that if anyone does apply, it must comply with the overall plan for the area,' he stated.
Rumours that the Quinn Group, which purchased Veha shortly before the factory closed, planned to construct a luxury hotel on their site have continually been dismissed in recent months.
However, representatives of the company have attended recent meetings about the Murrough masterplan and are believed to have approached a number of property owners on the Murrough in a bid to increase their holding in the area.
The Murrough was identified in the review of the town development plan is being of strategic importance to the orderly development of the town. The current masterplan has been drawn up in that context.
The preparation of the action area plan for the Murrough began immediately as the council was concerned that the new owners of the Veha site were about to lodge a planning application. Mr Nicholson stated that the council wanted to ensure that any planning applications complied with the overall objectives of the Murrough.
No-one from the Quinn Group was available to comment on the matter.
Wicklow People
The 'Concept Masterplan for The Murrough' sees the hotel being constructed on the site of the former Veha radiators factory. Also included are five blocks of apartments which span the area between Veha and Urban Villas.
A civic centre also forms part of the plan. This would comprise retail, commercial and leisure uses surrounding a small square.
At least three of these apartment blocks are planned for land which is currently occupied by a selection of businesses including the government buildings office and Wicklow Enterprise Park along with other private concerns.
The plan has been described by Town Manager, Michael Nicholson, as 'merely a plan'. 'It in itself won't actually lead to any development happening. It is up to individuals, if they wish to do so, to apply for planning...the plan merely ensures that if anyone does apply, it must comply with the overall plan for the area,' he stated.
Rumours that the Quinn Group, which purchased Veha shortly before the factory closed, planned to construct a luxury hotel on their site have continually been dismissed in recent months.
However, representatives of the company have attended recent meetings about the Murrough masterplan and are believed to have approached a number of property owners on the Murrough in a bid to increase their holding in the area.
The Murrough was identified in the review of the town development plan is being of strategic importance to the orderly development of the town. The current masterplan has been drawn up in that context.
The preparation of the action area plan for the Murrough began immediately as the council was concerned that the new owners of the Veha site were about to lodge a planning application. Mr Nicholson stated that the council wanted to ensure that any planning applications complied with the overall objectives of the Murrough.
No-one from the Quinn Group was available to comment on the matter.
Wicklow People
Sunday, 8 April 2007
Newtown firm gets green light for new factory
A Newtownmountkennedy-based factory which exports goods around the world has been given the green light for a new facility by Wicklow County Council.
In what was termed a historic iote, the 24 councillors were unanimous in their agreement to approie the material contraiention of the Newtown local area plan to grant planning permission to Castlebrook Furniture and Design for the construction of a 7370 square metre factory at Moneycarroll/Trudder, Newtown.
Senior executiie officer, Lorraine Gallagher, told Monday's council meeting that the county manager had recommended that the application be granted subject to 25 conditions.
The material contraiention was proposed by Cllr Andrew Doyle who reminded members that almost two years ago when they were considering the county deielopment plan it was recommended that Castlebrook pursue this line with the council. He said that in an era of decline for the manufacturing industry, councillors should pass the motion.
Supporting the motion, Cllr Nicky Kelly said that it was unfortunate that it took so long to come before the council giien the lack of sustainable jobs in the county.
He added the caieat that he was looking forward to seeing a material contraiention on the agenda for Abwood, the nearby timber shed company. 'Then the hypocrisy will end,' he predicted.
Cllr Syliester Bourke said that it was iery important that small business got a fair start eien if they began as unauthorised deielopments. Many successful businesses started out in someone's back yard, he said.
Cllr Pat Casey said that councillors were always speaking of using rural agricultural buildings and this was a success story which started in a farmyard but was now exporting goods as far afield as Dubai and employed 65 people.
Planning director, Des O'Brien, explained that all the employment zoned land in Newtown had been used up which made it possible to rezone the land in question. One of the conditions of the planning was that the old buildings and the land iniolied in the unauthorised deielopment would be returned to agricultural use, he added.
Wicklow People
In what was termed a historic iote, the 24 councillors were unanimous in their agreement to approie the material contraiention of the Newtown local area plan to grant planning permission to Castlebrook Furniture and Design for the construction of a 7370 square metre factory at Moneycarroll/Trudder, Newtown.
Senior executiie officer, Lorraine Gallagher, told Monday's council meeting that the county manager had recommended that the application be granted subject to 25 conditions.
The material contraiention was proposed by Cllr Andrew Doyle who reminded members that almost two years ago when they were considering the county deielopment plan it was recommended that Castlebrook pursue this line with the council. He said that in an era of decline for the manufacturing industry, councillors should pass the motion.
Supporting the motion, Cllr Nicky Kelly said that it was unfortunate that it took so long to come before the council giien the lack of sustainable jobs in the county.
He added the caieat that he was looking forward to seeing a material contraiention on the agenda for Abwood, the nearby timber shed company. 'Then the hypocrisy will end,' he predicted.
Cllr Syliester Bourke said that it was iery important that small business got a fair start eien if they began as unauthorised deielopments. Many successful businesses started out in someone's back yard, he said.
Cllr Pat Casey said that councillors were always speaking of using rural agricultural buildings and this was a success story which started in a farmyard but was now exporting goods as far afield as Dubai and employed 65 people.
Planning director, Des O'Brien, explained that all the employment zoned land in Newtown had been used up which made it possible to rezone the land in question. One of the conditions of the planning was that the old buildings and the land iniolied in the unauthorised deielopment would be returned to agricultural use, he added.
Wicklow People
Sunday, 1 April 2007
Minister says he did not breach planning over election posters
Minister Dick Roche has rubbished accusations that he breached the planning and litter acts by putting up election posters outside Wicklow town last week.
The Minister said that although he had made a personal decision to take the posters down, he was within his rights to keep them up as they were situated on private property. 'These posters could have stayed up but I didn't want to encourage the proliferation of posters around the country,' said the Minister. 'The Acts clearly state when posters are to be taken down after an election ends, however it is ambiguous about when they should be put up.'
'There are many parties putting up non-election posters on the roads of south Dublin who are getting around this by advertising meetings and clinics, which they are perfectly entitled to do. 'But I didn't want a row, so I chose to take them down'. The Minister said he first heard about the posters when a journalist contacted him to ask if the election was to be called early after he saw the posters whilst driving through Wicklow. The posters were erected by a group of the Minister's 'very enthusiastic volunteers'. He stressed the environment didn't suffer because they were placed on boards made from recycled material rather than using cardboard.
The Minister said that although he had made a personal decision to take the posters down, he was within his rights to keep them up as they were situated on private property. 'These posters could have stayed up but I didn't want to encourage the proliferation of posters around the country,' said the Minister. 'The Acts clearly state when posters are to be taken down after an election ends, however it is ambiguous about when they should be put up.'
'There are many parties putting up non-election posters on the roads of south Dublin who are getting around this by advertising meetings and clinics, which they are perfectly entitled to do. 'But I didn't want a row, so I chose to take them down'. The Minister said he first heard about the posters when a journalist contacted him to ask if the election was to be called early after he saw the posters whilst driving through Wicklow. The posters were erected by a group of the Minister's 'very enthusiastic volunteers'. He stressed the environment didn't suffer because they were placed on boards made from recycled material rather than using cardboard.
Thursday, 29 March 2007
Council orders removal of Roche posters from site in Wicklow
A large billboard with posters of Minister for the Environment Dick Roche has been removed from a site in Wicklow after questions were raised about its planning status. The posters, nearly 30 feet long and eight feet high, contained Mr Roche's photo alongside the slogan "Working for Wicklow".
Mr Roche blamed an "over-zealous" supporter for putting up the posters. They were removed yesterday from the hoarding just outside Rathnew.
It followed contact from Wicklow County Council's planning enforcement section to Mr Roche's office. However, yesterday, Mr Roche claimed he ordered the posters to be removed. He denied the hoarding breached planning regulations.
According to a spokesman for Mr Roche, the Minister was unaware of the posters, which were in a privately-owned field overlooking the main road into Wicklow town, until he was contacted by the media last Friday.
"An enthusiastic, over-zealous member of Minister Roche's campaign volunteer team put up a few posters," the spokesman said.
"When the Minister found out after getting a call from the media, he immediately instructed that a white covering be put on sites until the posters were taken down this morning."
"At no time did Minister Roche infringe the litter or planning Act, but he decided that they should be taken down. He notes other candidates in Wicklow have election hoardings up."
However, yesterday a spokeswoman for Wicklow County Council planning department said the council had been in contact with Mr Roche's office on Monday and had requested that the posters be removed.
Under the 2002 planning laws, advertising hoardings relating to a general election are exempt from planning legislation. However as an election has yet to be called, there is a question as to whether this exemption applies.
Mr Roche is the latest Dáil candidate to become embroiled in controversy over pre-election publicity. Dublin South West TD Charlie O'Connor was warned that 400 of his posters erected earlier this month on lampposts could breach littering legislation.
Liam Reid
© 2007 The Irish Times
Mr Roche blamed an "over-zealous" supporter for putting up the posters. They were removed yesterday from the hoarding just outside Rathnew.
It followed contact from Wicklow County Council's planning enforcement section to Mr Roche's office. However, yesterday, Mr Roche claimed he ordered the posters to be removed. He denied the hoarding breached planning regulations.
According to a spokesman for Mr Roche, the Minister was unaware of the posters, which were in a privately-owned field overlooking the main road into Wicklow town, until he was contacted by the media last Friday.
"An enthusiastic, over-zealous member of Minister Roche's campaign volunteer team put up a few posters," the spokesman said.
"When the Minister found out after getting a call from the media, he immediately instructed that a white covering be put on sites until the posters were taken down this morning."
"At no time did Minister Roche infringe the litter or planning Act, but he decided that they should be taken down. He notes other candidates in Wicklow have election hoardings up."
However, yesterday a spokeswoman for Wicklow County Council planning department said the council had been in contact with Mr Roche's office on Monday and had requested that the posters be removed.
Under the 2002 planning laws, advertising hoardings relating to a general election are exempt from planning legislation. However as an election has yet to be called, there is a question as to whether this exemption applies.
Mr Roche is the latest Dáil candidate to become embroiled in controversy over pre-election publicity. Dublin South West TD Charlie O'Connor was warned that 400 of his posters erected earlier this month on lampposts could breach littering legislation.
Liam Reid
© 2007 The Irish Times
Monday, 19 March 2007
Fears for cattle bring plan for windows crashing down
Planning story of the year from Frank McDonald!
A decision by An Bord Pleanála to refuse planning permission for three new windows in a Co Wicklow house on the basis that cattle in an adjoining field might run into them has been greeted with incredulity by planners.
The board's ruling, which was being circulated by e-mail among planners last week, is being seen by some as further evidence of a "bizarre trend" in its decisions, according to one planning consultant who did not wish to be identified.
"Since the 10-member board split up into 'boardlets' of three each to speed up decision-making on appeals, there has been a marked lack of consistency in its rulings.
"But this case in Co Wicklow marks a new low that's almost laughable," he said.
The applicant, Prof Harry Harrison, had been refused permission by Wicklow County Council to retain three new windows in his house near Killiskey, Ashford, after the owner of an adjoining field objected primarily because of the possible risk to livestock.
Prof Harrison's architect, Vincent Delaney, appealed to An Bord Pleanála, saying the existing windows of the diningroom and laundry of the house did not give adequate natural light or ventilation, as required under the building regulations.
He also claimed that there was a right of way between the house and the adjoining field and said any risk to animals would be unlikely because the toughened glass windows were 1.2 metres above ground level, which equated to the height of a field gate.
"Even dangerous zoo animals are housed behind toughened glass," he submitted.
"Opening up of the windows will cause no loss of amenity as no neighbours' residences are within sight [ and] no issues of overlooking have been raised by any party."
Alan Yarwood, the planning inspector who dealt with the appeal, recommended that permission be granted.
"I can see little basis for the suggestion that the windows would cause a danger to livestock," Mr Yarwood said in his report to the appeals board.
"Animals being pursued could be inclined to jump through a window in the mistaken belief that it provided an escape route.
"But, given that the sill level of the windows would be similar to a field gate, this seems a highly unlikely event," Mr Yarwood concluded.
"It is my view that the council's original objective . . . could equally be achieved by conditions requiring obscure glazing using toughened glass for the windows, a requirement that the windows should not open outwards, and the provision of external window bars.
"Whilst I have some sympathy with the neighbouring landowner's position . . . I find it difficult to envisage any real prejudicial effect on the legitimate use of the field which would arise through the reinstatement of the windows as suggested above."
An Bord Pleanála - or rather, the three members of the board who dealt with the case - disagreed with the planning inspector.
Refusing permission in the case, the board said the three windows would "negatively impact on the amenity and agricultural use of the adjoining field" now and in the future.
© 2007 The Irish Times
A decision by An Bord Pleanála to refuse planning permission for three new windows in a Co Wicklow house on the basis that cattle in an adjoining field might run into them has been greeted with incredulity by planners.
The board's ruling, which was being circulated by e-mail among planners last week, is being seen by some as further evidence of a "bizarre trend" in its decisions, according to one planning consultant who did not wish to be identified.
"Since the 10-member board split up into 'boardlets' of three each to speed up decision-making on appeals, there has been a marked lack of consistency in its rulings.
"But this case in Co Wicklow marks a new low that's almost laughable," he said.
The applicant, Prof Harry Harrison, had been refused permission by Wicklow County Council to retain three new windows in his house near Killiskey, Ashford, after the owner of an adjoining field objected primarily because of the possible risk to livestock.
Prof Harrison's architect, Vincent Delaney, appealed to An Bord Pleanála, saying the existing windows of the diningroom and laundry of the house did not give adequate natural light or ventilation, as required under the building regulations.
He also claimed that there was a right of way between the house and the adjoining field and said any risk to animals would be unlikely because the toughened glass windows were 1.2 metres above ground level, which equated to the height of a field gate.
"Even dangerous zoo animals are housed behind toughened glass," he submitted.
"Opening up of the windows will cause no loss of amenity as no neighbours' residences are within sight [ and] no issues of overlooking have been raised by any party."
Alan Yarwood, the planning inspector who dealt with the appeal, recommended that permission be granted.
"I can see little basis for the suggestion that the windows would cause a danger to livestock," Mr Yarwood said in his report to the appeals board.
"Animals being pursued could be inclined to jump through a window in the mistaken belief that it provided an escape route.
"But, given that the sill level of the windows would be similar to a field gate, this seems a highly unlikely event," Mr Yarwood concluded.
"It is my view that the council's original objective . . . could equally be achieved by conditions requiring obscure glazing using toughened glass for the windows, a requirement that the windows should not open outwards, and the provision of external window bars.
"Whilst I have some sympathy with the neighbouring landowner's position . . . I find it difficult to envisage any real prejudicial effect on the legitimate use of the field which would arise through the reinstatement of the windows as suggested above."
An Bord Pleanála - or rather, the three members of the board who dealt with the case - disagreed with the planning inspector.
Refusing permission in the case, the board said the three windows would "negatively impact on the amenity and agricultural use of the adjoining field" now and in the future.
© 2007 The Irish Times
Friday, 16 March 2007
Plans to house new facility at former library in Blessington Council considers day care centre proposal
Wicklow County Council is considering a proposal to make the former council engineer's office and library in Blessington available to the local community for use as a day care centre for the elderly.
The council has opened new offices in the town leaving the old premises vacant.
Cllr Jim Ruttle raised the matter in September and received unanimous support from his fellow councillors.
Since then the Health Service Executive has carried out a report on the building and was committed to the idea that there should be a day care centre in Blessington, he said.
The councillor explained elderly people in Blessington wishing to attend the day care facility in Baltinglass Hospital faced a 40 mile round trip.
Senior executive officer, Lorraine Gallagher, told Monday's meeting of the Council that the council had been in communication with the HSE about the property regarding their proposal for an outreach service.
It was the council intention to use the proceeds of the sale of the library and engineer's office to offset expenditure in the area.
Council chairman, Joe Behan reminded the county manager that councillors made a policy decision in September that the premises should be used as a day care centre.
He said the officials may have a different idea but the councillors had already made the decision. He called on council management to put that decision in to action.
County manager, Eddie Sheehy, said they were anxious to reach an agreement with the HSE and was exploring the idea of a land swap with the health service. He hoped to finalise matters within four to six weeks.
The council has opened new offices in the town leaving the old premises vacant.
Cllr Jim Ruttle raised the matter in September and received unanimous support from his fellow councillors.
Since then the Health Service Executive has carried out a report on the building and was committed to the idea that there should be a day care centre in Blessington, he said.
The councillor explained elderly people in Blessington wishing to attend the day care facility in Baltinglass Hospital faced a 40 mile round trip.
Senior executive officer, Lorraine Gallagher, told Monday's meeting of the Council that the council had been in communication with the HSE about the property regarding their proposal for an outreach service.
It was the council intention to use the proceeds of the sale of the library and engineer's office to offset expenditure in the area.
Council chairman, Joe Behan reminded the county manager that councillors made a policy decision in September that the premises should be used as a day care centre.
He said the officials may have a different idea but the councillors had already made the decision. He called on council management to put that decision in to action.
County manager, Eddie Sheehy, said they were anxious to reach an agreement with the HSE and was exploring the idea of a land swap with the health service. He hoped to finalise matters within four to six weeks.
O2 seek planning for phone antenna in Wicklow
Mobile phone company O2 have applied for planning permission to install a 21 metre antenna at Ballinaskea, beside the N11 north of Arklow.
The company initially applied to build the antenna last November, but their application was rejected by Wicklow County Council because it was incomplete.
The application is for the installation of a 21 metre monopole mast carrying cellular antennas and radio links, a small compound surrounded by security fencing and an access track to the site.
O2 were recently granted Arklow Town Council permission for a similar antenna in the Meadowvale Estate.
The Town Council moved to limit the number of separate masts popping up around Arklow by stipulating that any further antennas would need to be designed so other networks could use the same antenna.
But the Ballinaskea mast comes under Wicklow County Council's jurisdiction and planners will decide on the application by April 24.
Wicklow county councillor Nicky Kelly said the country was 'saturated with masts'.
'Everyone realises we need a certain amount of masts, but for health and aesthetic reasons, and particularly us being the garden of Ireland, there are too many here.'
The company initially applied to build the antenna last November, but their application was rejected by Wicklow County Council because it was incomplete.
The application is for the installation of a 21 metre monopole mast carrying cellular antennas and radio links, a small compound surrounded by security fencing and an access track to the site.
O2 were recently granted Arklow Town Council permission for a similar antenna in the Meadowvale Estate.
The Town Council moved to limit the number of separate masts popping up around Arklow by stipulating that any further antennas would need to be designed so other networks could use the same antenna.
But the Ballinaskea mast comes under Wicklow County Council's jurisdiction and planners will decide on the application by April 24.
Wicklow county councillor Nicky Kelly said the country was 'saturated with masts'.
'Everyone realises we need a certain amount of masts, but for health and aesthetic reasons, and particularly us being the garden of Ireland, there are too many here.'
Saturday, 10 March 2007
€6.1m to be poured into water schemes
Over €6 million will be invested into water schemes in County Wicklow during 2007, including investment in new schemes, the upgrading of current schemes and the start of a number of new group sewerage schemes.
Overall the money will go toward new treatment plants for 19 water schemes, upgrading works for 16 group water schemes and the start of work on two new group water schemes and four group sewerage schemes
The investment, the largest amount of funding ever pumped into Wicklow, will come as welcome news to many rural communities who have suffered a number of problems with their water supply. The quality of water in some parts has been a frequent complaint, while the water supply in some parts of West Wicklow has actually been contaminated in the past. Some home owners are also still reliant on their own wells.
The complete figure for investment will reach €6.1 million and Wicklow will be included as part of the South Leinster Project which extends over several neighbouring counties. It will include 15 public water supplies and four group water schemes in Wicklow alone. €3.3 of the allocation will be provided to allow all the Wicklow schemes to be brought to completion later in the year, with over 1,400 households set to benefit from new or upgraded water supplies by the end of the year.
The 15 public water supply schemes will be located at Askinagap, Ballingate Ballyknockan, Baltyboys, Barnadarrig, Ballycooge, Coolboy/Coolafancy, Donard, Hollywood, Humphreystown, Kiltegan, Kirakee New, Kirakee Old, Knockananna, Knockanarrigan, Rathdangan, Stratford, Thomastown and Valleymount.
An allocation of €581,000 will also be set aside to enable construction to start on new group sewerage schemes at Ballynerrin, Blainroe, Glendalough and Killadreenan. That same allocation will also go toward new group water schemes at Stranakelly and Brittas Bay.
Eight group water schemes will also be connected to public mains to try and ensure the water meets the highest drinking standards. Blainroe, Cornagower, Hempstown, Kilacloran, Manor Kilbride, Old Court, Tinode and Tombrean/Umrygar are the areas to benefit, at a cost of €600,000.
The new funding will enable Wicklow County Council to takeover a number of group water schemes as well. Once agreement has been reached with the groups at Ballyrahan, Crossbridge, Rosbane and Tomacork, the county council will be able to take charge of them at a cost of around €127,500.
€248,750 has been set aside to pay for the upgrading of schemes at Ballyfolan, Blakestown, Raheen and Little Newtown.
Wicklow County Council also submitted proposals to the Department of the Environment and Local government about improvements they were seeking for a number of small public water and sewerage schemes all over the county. In order to meet these demands, €1.2 million will be set aside for small public sewerage schemes in Ballinaclash, Barnadarrig, Blainroe, Donard, Glenealy, Knockroe/Priestnewtown Sewer, Redcross, Stratford and Thomastown.
Wicklow People
Overall the money will go toward new treatment plants for 19 water schemes, upgrading works for 16 group water schemes and the start of work on two new group water schemes and four group sewerage schemes
The investment, the largest amount of funding ever pumped into Wicklow, will come as welcome news to many rural communities who have suffered a number of problems with their water supply. The quality of water in some parts has been a frequent complaint, while the water supply in some parts of West Wicklow has actually been contaminated in the past. Some home owners are also still reliant on their own wells.
The complete figure for investment will reach €6.1 million and Wicklow will be included as part of the South Leinster Project which extends over several neighbouring counties. It will include 15 public water supplies and four group water schemes in Wicklow alone. €3.3 of the allocation will be provided to allow all the Wicklow schemes to be brought to completion later in the year, with over 1,400 households set to benefit from new or upgraded water supplies by the end of the year.
The 15 public water supply schemes will be located at Askinagap, Ballingate Ballyknockan, Baltyboys, Barnadarrig, Ballycooge, Coolboy/Coolafancy, Donard, Hollywood, Humphreystown, Kiltegan, Kirakee New, Kirakee Old, Knockananna, Knockanarrigan, Rathdangan, Stratford, Thomastown and Valleymount.
An allocation of €581,000 will also be set aside to enable construction to start on new group sewerage schemes at Ballynerrin, Blainroe, Glendalough and Killadreenan. That same allocation will also go toward new group water schemes at Stranakelly and Brittas Bay.
Eight group water schemes will also be connected to public mains to try and ensure the water meets the highest drinking standards. Blainroe, Cornagower, Hempstown, Kilacloran, Manor Kilbride, Old Court, Tinode and Tombrean/Umrygar are the areas to benefit, at a cost of €600,000.
The new funding will enable Wicklow County Council to takeover a number of group water schemes as well. Once agreement has been reached with the groups at Ballyrahan, Crossbridge, Rosbane and Tomacork, the county council will be able to take charge of them at a cost of around €127,500.
€248,750 has been set aside to pay for the upgrading of schemes at Ballyfolan, Blakestown, Raheen and Little Newtown.
Wicklow County Council also submitted proposals to the Department of the Environment and Local government about improvements they were seeking for a number of small public water and sewerage schemes all over the county. In order to meet these demands, €1.2 million will be set aside for small public sewerage schemes in Ballinaclash, Barnadarrig, Blainroe, Donard, Glenealy, Knockroe/Priestnewtown Sewer, Redcross, Stratford and Thomastown.
Wicklow People
Friday, 2 March 2007
Plans get green light
Wicklow County Council has given the go ahead for a new residential development in Rathnew. Planning permission has been granted for 163 dwellings and a childcare facility at Ballybeg, Rathnew.
The development will comprise 140 two, three and four bedroom terraced and semi-detached houses. There will also be 15 two and three bedroom apartments in three storey blocks along with eight ground floor and duplex apartments.
Permission was granted subject to 48 conditions.
Wicklow People
The development will comprise 140 two, three and four bedroom terraced and semi-detached houses. There will also be 15 two and three bedroom apartments in three storey blocks along with eight ground floor and duplex apartments.
Permission was granted subject to 48 conditions.
Wicklow People
Monday, 26 February 2007
Wicklow County Council pre-planning
The debate this week in the Wicklow People over the quality of planning applications is an old one. The quality of planning applications - or lack thereof - has long been a bone of contention among planners, both in the public and in the private sectors. How to improve planning applications requires clients to only hire Irish Planning Institute or RIAI members.
The Wicklow People article follows up on recent moves to regulate those who undertake planning applications. This debate raises a number of issues, but from a planner's perspective, the most important is that those who wish to make a planning application obntain advice before they do so. This advice needs to cover:
1.Whether the proposed development has any chance of obtaining planning permission. Remember, an agent may really want your work and will tell you what you want to hear to get it.
2. Who is the best agent to hire for any given planning application? For example, if it is for engineering works requiring planning permission use an engineer. An architect is not always the only possible agent. Get the best agent for your job. If you need advice contact a planning consultant such as bps (0404-66060)
3. Review the cost of a range of agents and remember that the lowest cost agent is the lowest cost for a reason.
But, in the end, the person who needs a planning application must choose the agent which best meets their needs and more often than not this will involve taking cost into account, with some architects simply too expensive for many people.
It is the issue of cost which is at the root of the concerns of Des O'Brien and Padraig Smith in this week's Wicklow People. The fact is that many people choose the cheapest option for making their planning application, which can often mean hiring an unqualified person who may be undertaking a 'nixer' to work on your behalf. This person may have limited experience and no insurance or professional qualifications. Padraig and Des are right that if such agents were not used the quality of planning applications would rise, but they do not detail why they think it is that people use those who produce poor planning applications.
I entirely understand these reasons. But it is a clear case of caveat Emptor - buyer beware - as such agents who work for low cost and produce poor quality work are unlikely to turn any work away. In other words, they will encourage you to make a plannign application in order that they can make money from the work. A professional architect or planner (members of the RIAI or Irish Planning Institute)will tell you whether it is worth spending any money at all.
As planning consultants, bps suggests that those who need a planning application made contact us prior to help answer the above questions. We'll advise on:
1. Whether planning permission is required.
2. The chances of obtaining planning permission given the planning policies for any given site. If you have no chance, we tell you.
3. The best options for having your planning application produced.
We answer all of the pre-preplanning questions, so that it is often not necessary to ask Wicklow or any other County Council for a pre-planning meeting. Just give us a call on 0404-66060.
The wider issue of the number of applications which are invalidated or refused is a much longer debate. It is about how Planning Authority's interact with the public and with those who produce plans and planning applications. This issue continues to be debated at national planning policy level.
The Wicklow People article follows up on recent moves to regulate those who undertake planning applications. This debate raises a number of issues, but from a planner's perspective, the most important is that those who wish to make a planning application obntain advice before they do so. This advice needs to cover:
1.Whether the proposed development has any chance of obtaining planning permission. Remember, an agent may really want your work and will tell you what you want to hear to get it.
2. Who is the best agent to hire for any given planning application? For example, if it is for engineering works requiring planning permission use an engineer. An architect is not always the only possible agent. Get the best agent for your job. If you need advice contact a planning consultant such as bps (0404-66060)
3. Review the cost of a range of agents and remember that the lowest cost agent is the lowest cost for a reason.
But, in the end, the person who needs a planning application must choose the agent which best meets their needs and more often than not this will involve taking cost into account, with some architects simply too expensive for many people.
It is the issue of cost which is at the root of the concerns of Des O'Brien and Padraig Smith in this week's Wicklow People. The fact is that many people choose the cheapest option for making their planning application, which can often mean hiring an unqualified person who may be undertaking a 'nixer' to work on your behalf. This person may have limited experience and no insurance or professional qualifications. Padraig and Des are right that if such agents were not used the quality of planning applications would rise, but they do not detail why they think it is that people use those who produce poor planning applications.
I entirely understand these reasons. But it is a clear case of caveat Emptor - buyer beware - as such agents who work for low cost and produce poor quality work are unlikely to turn any work away. In other words, they will encourage you to make a plannign application in order that they can make money from the work. A professional architect or planner (members of the RIAI or Irish Planning Institute)will tell you whether it is worth spending any money at all.
As planning consultants, bps suggests that those who need a planning application made contact us prior to help answer the above questions. We'll advise on:
1. Whether planning permission is required.
2. The chances of obtaining planning permission given the planning policies for any given site. If you have no chance, we tell you.
3. The best options for having your planning application produced.
We answer all of the pre-preplanning questions, so that it is often not necessary to ask Wicklow or any other County Council for a pre-planning meeting. Just give us a call on 0404-66060.
The wider issue of the number of applications which are invalidated or refused is a much longer debate. It is about how Planning Authority's interact with the public and with those who produce plans and planning applications. This issue continues to be debated at national planning policy level.
Moves must made to ensure the protection of historic landmarks before any development at the Alps site in Arklow's Main Street commences, Arklow Town
Moves must made to ensure the protection of historic landmarks before any development at the Alps site in Arklow's Main Street commences, Arklow Town Council has been told.
Cllr Pat Fitzgerald told the meeting that he wanted to see the Victorian postbox and a historic marker stone preserved on the site.
'I welcome the development but there are historic things there that people don't want left under concrete.'
Cllr Fitzgerald called for them to be relocated somewhere else in the town if the development gets the go-ahead.
Mayor Vincent McElheron also raised the issue of preserving the old castle wall.
'In the wall that houses that postbox, the stones were from part of the castle.'
He asked town engineer Kevin Scanlon to investigate whether the development would affect the stonework.
Mr Scanlon also revealed that the developers behind the Alps-site project had paid almost e40,000 in planning fees to the council, with no guarantee of the project even getting approval.
'It's common knowledge that the maximum fee is e38,000 and they paid close to the maximum,' he said in response to a question from Cllr Sylvester Bourke.
He said the planning application had included an environmental impact statement, and archaological report of the old castle, as well as full details of the proposed development itself.
Cllr Pat Fitzgerald told the meeting that he wanted to see the Victorian postbox and a historic marker stone preserved on the site.
'I welcome the development but there are historic things there that people don't want left under concrete.'
Cllr Fitzgerald called for them to be relocated somewhere else in the town if the development gets the go-ahead.
Mayor Vincent McElheron also raised the issue of preserving the old castle wall.
'In the wall that houses that postbox, the stones were from part of the castle.'
He asked town engineer Kevin Scanlon to investigate whether the development would affect the stonework.
Mr Scanlon also revealed that the developers behind the Alps-site project had paid almost e40,000 in planning fees to the council, with no guarantee of the project even getting approval.
'It's common knowledge that the maximum fee is e38,000 and they paid close to the maximum,' he said in response to a question from Cllr Sylvester Bourke.
He said the planning application had included an environmental impact statement, and archaological report of the old castle, as well as full details of the proposed development itself.
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