Residents in the Gort na Greine, Cruachan Park, and Ros Geal estates are appealing to An Bord Pleanála to refuse permission to a proposed commercial development in Millar’s Lane, which has already received the backing of the Galway City Council.
The city council granted planning permission for a commercial development adjacent to Millar’s Lane. The application was originally submitted in 2008 which sought to demolish the existing dwelling house and shed and create a new site entrance onto Rahoon Road.
Permission was also sought to construct a mixed development in the form of two separate blocks - a three storey building consisting of four commercial units on the ground floor with four two bedroom apartments above; and a two storey building of two, two bedroom apartments. Permission was also sought for 21 car parking spaces, and a bin-store area.
Residents in Gort na Greine, Cruachan Park, and Ros Geal opposed the proposed development, arguing it would have a serious impact on the quality of life for those who are living close to the site. They also object to the density of the development and believe it will increase traffic and noise in the area.
However permission was granted by the council, prompting the residents to take action and lodge an objection to An Bord Pleanála. They are supported in their action by Independent councillor Donal Lyons.
“I have been contacted by the residents and have supported their stance from the outset,” he said. “There is considerable traffic congestion each morning at this location and this proposed development will add further traffic chaos. I fully support the residents in their appeal and would hope that Bord Pleanála will rule in their favour.”
Fine Gael senator Fidelma Healy Eames has also met the residents and feels the city council’s grant of permission raises a serious questions.
“Why did the city council grant planning permission for a mixed development, which includes commercial development, on a residentially zoned site?,” she asked. “Surely this is a material contravention of the Galway City Development Plan? The city council would have to have brought the matter before councillors to vote before permission was given but this did not happen
