Core Refusal Reason
The proposed change of use from commercial to residential at street level within the Arklow Town Core Retail Area is contrary to Objective CPO 10.9, which prioritizes retail and commercial uses to maintain the vitality and viability of the town centre.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The development is located within the Arklow Town Core Retail Area where Objective CPO 10.9 normally requires retail or commercial use at street level to protect the vitality of the town centre.
- The applicant failed to demonstrate a sufficient justification for the provision of studio apartments at street level in a location specifically zoned for prime shopping and commercial activity.
- Granting permission would undermine the retail strategy for Arklow and set a negative precedent for the wholesale conversion of existing retail structures to residential use within the core area.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Objective RT1CPO 8.2CPO 8.3CPO 10.8CPO 10.9CPO 10.11
Decision Document Summary
The applicant sought permission for the change of use of two vacant commercial units at 12B and 12D Upper Main Street, Arklow, into two residential studio apartments. This application was a repeat submission following a previous refusal (Ref. 23/165). The subject site is situated within the designated Arklow Town Core Retail Area. Wicklow County Council refused the application on the grounds that the proposal contravenes Objective CPO 10.9 of the County Development Plan 2022-2028, which seeks to...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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