An Bord Pleanala has upheld an appeal against planning permission for a major retail development at the former Murray Kitchen’s site in Mill Road, Youghal. The so-called ‘Dunne’s Stores’ proposal had received planning permission from Youghal Town Council, who rezoned the four-acre site, paving the way for a massive 9,500 sq metre retail, sports & leisure and  medical/health centre. The site’s capacity measures more than the combined existing retail space, Tescos included, in the town. By Christy Parker Photo: Michael Hussey (YoughalOnline.com)

Killarney-based Galvin Developments Ltd., who bought the site, had intimated that Dunne’s Stores would provide anchor tenancy on 6,000 sq metres with the remaining space occupied by up to twelve ancillary units. The application also provided for 250 parking spaces.

Objectors to the proposal were Finbarr & Anthony Russell, RGDATA, Ken Brookes and Diarmuid Keogh. The Bord upheld the objections on the grounds that, contrary to the 2009-15 Town Development Plan, it would ‘adversely affect the vitality and viability of the old town centre, its heritage character and its envisaged role as the primary commercial, retail, civic and symbolic centre of the town.’ Read more inside

The Bord further decided that, “adequate provision for parking, loading and turning spaces had not been provided and that serious traffic congestion on the main road might arise. It was ruled that the proposal was ‘unduly development obtrusive and would adversely affect the character and views of the nearby protected structure of North Abbey Cemetery, with a similar negative impact on nearby bungalows.

Jerry Galvin, Director with Galvin Developments says the company “is very disappointed, having worked on the project for a long time.
Its now back to the drawing board,” he added.

Please click on the following An Bord Pleanala – Inspectors Reports:

For detailed information, see Cork County Council Planning files @ www.corkcoco.ie

Youghal Town Council Planning Register Number: P58012/08

An Bord Pleanala Reference Number: PL87.231058