Donegal County Council approves 'vibrant' Letterkenny apartment block
Approved plans for three-storey building containing nine apartments in Oldtown area of Letterkenny
Donegal County Council has granted planning permission to construct a three-storey apartment building at Oldtown, Letterkenny.
The granted proposal involves the demolition of an existing derelict dwelling and outbuildings, for the construction of a three-storey apartment block containing nine two-bed apartments in total.
All associated site works, including car parking, bin compound, external storage compounds for each apartment, landscaped amenity area, footpath and cycle lanes, a new site entrance, and connection to existing public services, including foul, storm, and watermains, are included in the approved application.
MH Associates, on behalf of the applicant, R.I. Scott Construction Ltd, stated in supporting application documents: “The proposal aims to redevelop an underutilised urban site located just outside the Letterkenny town centre boundary into a high-quality residential scheme that will contribute to meeting the town’s growing housing demand.
“There is an increasing need for accommodation for young professionals, families, older persons seeking to downsize to a more central location, and households affected by defective concrete blocks.
“The redevelopment will ensure the site is used efficiently, supporting a compact urban form and complying with national and local planning policies for sustainable development. The master plan has been carefully designed to prioritise connectivity, functionality, and quality of living environments.
“A shared surface access route will run through the site and integrate with the existing road network. Buildings are set back to facilitate the provision of a new pedestrian and cycle link, optimising natural daylight and creating an attractive and usable open space for residents.”
MH Associates concluded that the project would bring a “positive contribution to the community.”
It said: “The project aims to create a vibrant, attractive living environment that enhances Letterkenny’s identity and contributes to its ongoing regeneration as a thriving regional centre.”
Donegal County Council approved planning permission for the project with 21 conditions, including a condition that the developers provide adequate security in the amount of €45,000 to the Planning Authority for the provision and completion of all services required by the development, to ensure satisfactory completion of the development.
A further condition was imposed that the applicant or beneficiary of the permission shall contribute a payment of €16,000 in respect of public infrastructure and facilities benefitting development in the area of the Planning Authority that is already provided or is intended to be provided by the Authority.