2260522
of the construction of a Discount Foodstore Supermarket with ancillary off-licence sales. The proposed development comprises: 1) The construction of a part single part two storey Discount Foodstore with ancillary off-licence use (with part flat roof part mono-pitch roof) measuring 2,261 sqm gross floor space with a net retail sales area of 1,460 sqm; 2) Construction of a vehicular access point to the Galway Road and associated works to carriageway including modification of existing footpaths, removal of central median and creation of right turn lane and associated and ancillary works; and, 3) Provision of associated car parking, pedestrian access, free standing and building mounted signage, free standing trolley bay cover / enclosure, roof mounted refrigeration and air conditioning plant and equipment, roof mounted solar panels, hard and soft landscaping, cycle parking, boundary treatments, drainage infrastructure and connections to services / utilities, electricity sub-station and all other associated and ancillary development and works above and below ground level.
Core Refusal Reason
The Planning Authority refused permission due to flooding risks, potential impacts on the Lough Corrib SAC/SPA, traffic hazards on the N83 national road, and concerns that the design was at odds with the town's character; however, the Inspector recommended a grant, concluding these issues were manageable or unsubstantiated.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed development is consistent with the 'Town Centre Infill/Residential' zoning and the settlement strategy for Claregalway as a Level 4 Neighbourhood Centre.
- Technical concerns regarding flooding and road safety are addressed by the applicant's site-specific assessments, confirming the site is in Flood Zone C and that traffic increases of less than 5% are minimal for a zoned urban site.
- The contemporary design and active frontage will improve the urban character of a town centre currently dominated by road infrastructure and lacking a defined sense of place.