24/6516

Permission for demolition of an existing dwelling and outbuilding, the construction of 2 no. buildings to provide 20 no. apartment style units for the temporary accommodation of persons seeking international protection and all associated car parking, landscaping, site clearance and site development works. Access will be provided via the existing entrance to the Macroom Accommodation Centre/Riverside Park Hotel

Granted

Core Planning Reasoning

The Inspector recommends a grant of permission as the proposal is consistent with the site's residential zoning, supports specific housing objectives for asylum seekers (Objective PO 21), and infrastructural capacity constraints can be managed through conditions restricting occupancy until planned utility upgrades are completed.

Decision Maker's Conclusion

  • The proposed residential development for international protection applicants is compatible with the 'Existing Residential / Mixed Residential and Other Uses' zoning and complies with the Cork Joint Housing Strategy.
  • The density and design of the two-storey blocks are appropriate for this small infill site, effectively integrating with the existing streetscape and the character of the adjoining S23 Scenic Route without adversely impacting neighboring amenities.
  • While the current Macroom wastewater and water infrastructure is overloaded, ongoing Uisce Éireann upgrades scheduled for 2026 provide a sufficient basis for a grant of permission, subject to conditions that prohibit occupation until the works are fully complete.

Cited Policies (CDP)

WM 11-8: Water SupplyWM 11-9: Wastewater DisposalTM 12-9: ParkingGI 14-13: Scenic RoutesGI 14-14: Development on Scenic RoutesBE 15-2: Protect sites, habitats and speciesZU 18-5: Transitional ZonesZU 18-9: Existing Residential/Mixed Residential and Other UsesPolicy Objective PO 21: Support for asylum seekers and refugeesMM-GO-09: Provision of green links and walkways

Decision Document Summary

The proposal involves the demolition of an existing bungalow and the construction of 20 two-bedroom apartments designed for persons seeking international protection on a 0.42ha site at Lower Codrum, Macroom. The development is intended to be ancillary to the adjacent Macroom Accommodation Centre (the former Riverside Park Hotel). The site context is sensitive, being bounded by the Sullane River and Macroom Golf Club, and situated along the S23 Scenic Route. Key arguments centered on the developm...
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