A decision to allow the construction of 26 new houses in Castleblayney has been upheld by the Higher Planning Authority.
Newvend Limited were initially granted permission for the development in January last year, however it has been subject to an appeal. The development, located on the Railway Road, would see the construction of 26 semi-detached and terraced houses. These would be a mix of two and three bed houses, with parking, footpaths, public lighting and landscaping included in the application. Plans were approved by Monaghan County Council with 18 conditions attached, however it was subsequently appealed. The appeal highlighted concerns with a 100% residential development being against the Town Centre First plan. It also pointed out that this exact development was previously refused by An Bórd Pleanála relating to design and layout, with this appeal pointing out that traffic would be a major concern. It states that a lack of turning area on the road results in vehicles making multiple maneuvers to exit. Finally, the appeal points out that the density of the development is inefficient, being far under the minimum of 50 units per hectare. An Bórd Pleanála in it's assessment ultimately upheld Monaghan County Council's decision to grant permission.
They say that the proposed houses wouldn't injure the visual amenities in the area and it is considered an appropriate redevelopment of a centrally located brownfield site.
