Nine-house development in Loch an Iúir to ‘strengthen’ Irish language community

Donegal County Council has received a planning permission application for the construction of nine houses in Loch an Iúir, in an estate overlooking Lough Anure. 

Charles Roarty, the listed applicant, has applied for the construction of nine dwellings, including two-bedroom, three-bedroom, and four-bedroom houses, with access via the N56 through the existing Radharc An Iúir housing estate, connection to an existing wastewater treatment system, and all associated site works.

Should the proposals go through, it is planned that the Radharc An Iúir estate should have a cul-de-sac appearance. 

An Irish Language Impact Assessment accompanying the report, translated from Irish, read: “With nine houses planned in this development, it is recommended that eight houses should be available for daily Irish speakers.”

READ NEXT: Planning sought for 12-person community care home in Letterkenny

The assessment concluded: “The proposed development will provide residential units within the village of Loch an Iúir, which will enhance and support the existing community.

“Additional housing in the Gaeltacht has a positive impact on the standard of Irish in the area, as it ensures the provision of high-quality housing in the Gaeltacht, which has been and continues to be in short supply.

“It is clear that this development would meet the housing needs of the area in accordance with the relevant national, regional, and local planning policies, and that it would strengthen the identity of the community and the Irish language in Loch an Iúir.”

Donegal County Council has set a decision due date for the submitted application for Monday, March 23.