214516
An extension (4364m2) to the existing Butter Processing Facility (6146m2) for the manufacture, packaging and distribution of Butter products permitted by Cork County Council planning application references 145908 & 196855. The proposal will comprise: extensions adjoining the main building ranging from c.9.35m to 18.85m in height consisting of; c.330m2 of office/ancillary accommodation arranged over two storeys, c.1,219m2 of ground floor production space, with c. 331m2 of first floor / mezzanine production space, c.1,987m2 of single storey storage/distribution space, enclosed plant space c.118m2 with open plant area above of c. 7m in height and a single storey liquid ingredients intake building extension c.68m2 with open plant area above of c. 9.5m in height. 7 no. new liquid storage silos of c.15 m in height with associated access platforms. A new single storey maintenance store c. 103m2 of c.5.5m in height. A new enclosure for existing wastewater pre-treatment equipment c.112m2 of c. 4.0m in height. A new enclosure to the existing process water storage tank of c.96m2 of c. 5.5m in height. Relocation of existing liquid storage unit. Existing external signage relocated on western elevation. 36 no. new car parking spaces in a new parking area containing 72 space of which 36 are displaced by the proposed extension, 17 no. new bicycle parking spaces, 4 no. new motorcycle parking spaces. Landscaping, hardstandings, underground services and ancillary works. All on site area of 2.62 Ha. All access to and from the site will remain by way of the existing access road to Castlefarm from the N73 (Kildorrery) roundabout. The application relates to a development which is located on a site which operates under Industrial Emissions License P0404-02. The environmental Impact Assessment Report and Natura Impact Statement will be submitted to the Planning Authority with the application.
Core Planning Reasoning
The Inspector recommends a grant of permission as the proposed development is consistent with the 'Industry' zoning and specific development objectives of the Fermoy Municipal District Local Area Plan, and would not seriously injure residential amenities, public health, or traffic safety.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The extension supports the established agri-food industrial base in Mitchelstown and will provide positive economic impacts through increased employment and facility modernization.
- The existing wastewater treatment infrastructure at the Castlefarm Dairy Complex has sufficient capacity to handle the projected 75% increase in production without violating IE Licence P0404-02 conditions.
- Potential impacts on the King's Square Architectural Conservation Area are mitigated by the fact that HGV traffic is directed via a dedicated western entrance from the N73, avoiding the town center.