Plans to build 16 Letterkenny apartments resubmitted to Donegal County Council

A property developer has reapplied for planning permission from Donegal County Council with proposals to demolish a derelict Letterkenny guesthouse to build 16 apartments after previously being refused permission.

Listed applicant, Kieran Kerr, whose previous related application was refused by Donegal County Council in October, resubmitted plans for the demolition of an existing derelict guesthouse in Covehill, Letterkenny, and the construction of two apartment blocks, each containing six two-bed apartments and two one-bed apartments. 

Included in the proposal was car parking, bin and external storage compounds, landscaped amenity areas including boundary fencing, connection to public services and an upgrade to the existing public road L-10042-0 with a new surface finish. 

Within the previous application, the road upgrade was a reason why Donegal County Council refused the application, as it could not “be shown to operate safely in conjunction with the adjoining one-way system permitted… and does not provide adequate on-site turning and servicing arrangements.”

It was also viewed that the application had failed to demonstrate visibility with a policy of “multiple residential developments are served by safe, and demonstrably compliant access for pedestrians, cyclists, residents, service and emergency vehicles.”

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Within the new application, MH Associates Surveyors, in their design statement, stated the changes between the current and previous application.

It stated:  “A 5.5m shared surface roadway can provide both safe vehicular and pedestrian traffic without the need for a separate footpath. The road serves a small number of dwellings, and vehicular traffic into and beyond the site will be minimal. The road is not a through road, and vehicular traffic will be accessing only the dwellings being served. 

“The shared surface arrangement is a well-proven concept supported by DMURS, where traffic volumes and speeds are low, particularly suited to residential areas.”

Concerns regarding street parking were also acknowledged, with those in support of the development stating, “double yellow lines will be provided, which can then be enforced by the Local Authority to prevent illegal parking.”

Other material changes included in the current application were an agreement with an A/Chief Fire Officer on emergency access, car parking capacity, and additional bike parking spaces. 

MH Associates Surveyors concluded: “This proposal represents a significant opportunity to revitalise an underutilised site in the heart of Letterkenny, delivering much-needed housing for a diverse range of residents. 

“The development’s prime location makes it particularly attractive for young professionals, families, and mature individuals alike, providing high-quality, modern living spaces in close proximity to essential services and transport links.

“By integrating well-designed public spaces, sustainable transport options, and high-quality residential accommodation, this scheme will contribute positively to the town’s identity and future growth.”

Donegal County Council has set a decision due date for the resubmitted planning application for February 21, 2026.