Quin estate developers move to allay planning concerns

DEVELOPERS aiming to build 41 new homes in the village of Quin have moved to allay concerns over several aspects of the proposed estate. 

Datcha Construction, who lodged a planning application last January for a site at Quingardens, have responded to a request for Further Information. The company has provided the Council with additional design and layout details, as well as several reports on the likely environmental and archaeological impacts. 

Additional information has been provided on house design, road layout and other matters. Among the documents provided by the developer are a Natura Impact Statement, a Screening Report for Appropriate Assessment and a full Bat Survey Report.

In addition, a report on the outdoor lighting has been submitted, as well as Flood Risk Assessment, which includes a review of the likely effects of climate change. An archaeological report has also been submitted. Revised designs have been submitted to respond to concerns raised by the planners and in response to submissions on the application. 

The width of the existing road is now proposed to a minimum of 5.5 metres, by moving the proposed footpath and parking area into the development site.

A revised site layout now includes a raised pedestrian crossing point, “which will connect to the existing footpath network to the village”. The crossing, the developers said, has been discussed with the area engineer and details are to be agreed with the Council. A Landscape Plan has been submitted, as well as confirmation of a connection application to Irish Water. 

After an initial assessment of the application, the Council issued their FI request in March. Planners raised questions about several aspects of the development, which proposes the construction of 13 detached, 10 semi-detached and 18 terraced houses on a site of just under two hectares. 

Planners sought additional details on the impact of the development on the Lower River Shannon Area Special Area of Conservation (SAC), the Poulnagordon Cave SAC and the Old Domestic Buildings SAC. They also asked for a bat survey and Flood Risk Assessment.

Following a submission from the Development Applications Unit (DAU), the archaeological assessment report was requested. 

The company was also asked to submit proposals for an upgrade of the access road from the proposed site entrance to the junction with the L-3148; as well as revised boundary designs, a detailed landscaping plan, and a pre-connection enquiry to Irish Water.

During the submissions window, five objections were received. These included a joint submission from Quingarden Residents. The submissions have raised concerns over issues including flooding, road safety, traffic volumes and the protection of wildlife. One document detailed incidents of flooding in Quin in 2009, 2012, 2015 and 2017.

Other submissions highlighted the requirement under the County Development Plan for hydrogeological assessment for any plans on the development site. Concerns were also raised by some residents about potential overlooking of existing homes. Councillor Alan O’Callaghan has asked to be placed as a representative on the application.

Following receipt of the FI documentation on October 21, planners have given December 15 as a revised decision date on the application.