2342169
Permission for developments at part of existing Unit 3 and part of existing Unit 2 to combined units '1, 2 & 3', Westpoint Buildings, Westpoint Business Park, Link Road, Ballincollig, Cork. Proposed developments consist of the subdivision and change of use of vacant ground floor area (430 sq.m) of part of Unit 3 and part of Unit 2, to combined units '1,2 & 3', from permitted office-based industry/ high-tech manufacturing use, to a full day care childcare facility. Proposed development to include : (1) Alterations to the internal layout of the ground floor area for which planning permission is sought: (2) The provision of a private open-space play area to the rear of the building, screened by 2m high boundary fencing and fire exit gate; (3) Minor alterations to the rear elevation to include the construction of 1 no. new fire exit door and provision of new screen canopies over the proposed open-space play area; (4) Provision of new signage on front elevation; (5) Provision of new bicycle stand; and (6) All associated ancillary site works.
Core Refusal Reason
The proposed childcare facility is incompatible with the ZO9 Light Industry zoning objective and would result in a substandard environment for children due to its location within an active industrial/business park setting.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The development materially contravenes the ZO9 Light Industry zoning objective as the childcare facility is not subsidiary to main employment uses and conflicts with the primary industrial purpose of the area.
- The proposal would create significant conflict between childcare-related traffic, pedestrian, and cycling movements and existing industrial operations, leading to potential noise and safety issues.
- The proposed play area is poorly situated near delivery zones, bin storage, and air handling units, resulting in a poor-quality environment that would seriously injure the amenities of future occupants.