Bord blocks multi-million apartment complex

An Bord Pleanala has overturned a decision by Cavan planners to grant permission for a multi-million euro apartment complex near the centre of Cavan Town on the basis that, if allowed, the development might set an “undesirable precedent” for the area.

The council granted local developer Bernard Farrell planning for the proposed development at Harmony Heights, Kinnypottle, back in July last year, with a total of 28 conditions.

The basement is existing and constructed under planning previously approved to Sandar Properties Ltd in 2002, which then set about trying to build a block of 24, two-bed apartments.

Construction had commenced but was subsequently abandoned, and the site was subsequently the subject of a notice served under the Derelict Properties Act, as well as enforcement proceedings.

Pre planning in respect of Mr Farrell's application for a three-storey over basement block with 16 two-bed apartments and 12 one bed units took place in May 2023 after the site was purchased by Energise Construction from Sandar.

In the planning file Mr Farrell argued that the development as proposed was 'necessary' if only to make the project 'financially viable'.

However, concerns were expressed in relation to the scale and height of the proposed development its potential impact on neighbouring properties.

A shadow diagram was required and it was requested that the road design section also be consulted.

The third party appeal was lodged by three named local residents.

In its ruling, the independent planning appeals body agreed with local concerns expressed, and an opinion that the number of two and three bedroom apartments was an “overprovision” and would not provide an “appropriate unit mix”.

In addition, the bord felt that, if permitted, the development could create an “undesirable precedent”, with the positioning and design of windows also risking a “loss of privacy” to neighbouring houses located to the east of the site.