Council slams brakes on Greencastle motorhome park

A proposal to develop a motorhome park in Greencastle has been turned down by Donegal County Council following a number of objections from residents in the area.

The applicant, Adrian McClenaghan, had sought permission to develop a motorhome park at Eleven Ballyboes, Greencastle. The proposed development included five motorhome berths, a private on-site effluent treatment plant, and associated signage. 

However, the application attracted strong opposition from residents of the nearby Adelaide Meadows housing estate, who raised concerns about potential anti-social behaviour, noise pollution, traffic congestion, loss of privacy, and the possible devaluation of their properties.

Among the objections was a submission from Noreen McGlynn, who expressed serious concerns regarding noise, security, and anti-social behaviour. She stated that the proposed development would lead to significantly increased noise levels, particularly during peak holiday periods, disrupting the peaceful environment enjoyed by families in the area. 

She further highlighted safety concerns, stating that residents have a right to feel secure in their homes. She also raised fears about the potential for “anti-social behaviour, including public intoxication and vandalism, if the park was not adequately managed, which can increase the risk of criminal activities.”

Stephen and Orla Laird also objected, citing the proximity of the proposed motorhome park to a residential area. They said it is “likely to lead to increased noise, traffic congestion, and a loss of privacy, which they felt was incompatible with the quiet, safe character of the area.”

They also raised concerns about a potential reduction in property values due to the presence of a motorhome park, which may result in a “potential negative impacts on the desirability and attractiveness of the area.”

Another objection was submitted by Claire Lake McLaughlin, who outlined concerns about generator noise, vehicle engines, loud music, and late-night activity associated with motorhome parks, which could affect nearby residents, including her own family. 

“During the spring/summer and peak times, windows at the rear of my property will be open at night. People staying at a motorhome do not have a curfew, so my young children will be affected by late nights.”

Ms McLaughlin also raised concerns about increased traffic, strain on local infrastructure, privacy issues, and the overall impact on quality of life in what she described as a “very quiet residential area.”

Paula O’Brien and Trevor Shaw also objected to the development, stating that it “would disrupt the serenity and aesthetics of the housing estate and pose a threat to property values.” 

They expressed concerns about road safety on the R241 Greencastle to Moville road and surrounding roads, particularly for walkers and cyclists, due to the increased volume of large motorhomes. 

They also questioned whether Greencastle, as a small coastal village, has the tourism infrastructure to support a motorhome park and warned of the potential for anti-social behaviour. 

In its decision, Donegal County Council refused planning permission on policy grounds. The council stated that the proposed development was contrary to Policy TOU-P-6(b) of the County Donegal Development Plan 2024–2030, as “it is not within safe walking distance of local services and facilities.”

The council also found that the proposal failed to comply with several criteria under Policy TOU-P-8, including inadequate separation distances between pitches and from the public road.

The planning authority further noted that the proposed motorhome park would offer a poor level of tourist product due to its proximity to a dilapidated heritage property, which was identified as a safety hazard because of its compromised structural integrity. 

READ NEXT: Permission sought to construct three Buncrana houses

Concerns were also raised about access and internal circulation, with the council stating it had not been demonstrated that sufficient and proper access could be provided for guests, vehicles, or emergency services, resulting in a potential traffic hazard.