Planning and development consultants on behalf of Aldi Stores (Ireland) Ltd., have submitted a response to the Further Information Request issued by Roscommon County Council in relation to a proposed discount foodstore, car parking, landscaping, 5 no. residential dwellings and all other site works at the former Candon’s Site and lands to the rear of Patrick Street, Boyle.
The 18 page detailed response was lodged with Roscommon Co Co on December 17th and includes a large number of detailed reports addressing the concerns outlined in the request for further information from the local authority in April last.
According to the consultants: “It is considered that that the documents enclosed respond positively to the Planning Authority’s request for further information and will implement a high quality, retail-led development comprising a discount foodstore which will enhance the retail provision in Boyle and contribute positively to the site’s town centre zoning and its association with the Architectural Conservation Area which includes the northern section of the site. Appropriate boundary treatments and comprehensive landscaping strategy as presented within the FI response ensure that the proposed development integrates appropriately with its surroundings and mitigates potential visual impact to neighbouring properties”.
The finish of the foodstore has been reconsidered by the applicant “to include elements of locally sourced natural stone finish which has been recommended by ARC Consulting Grade I Conservation Architects and informed by the instance of calp limestone existing within Boyle and the local area. The inclusion of this natural limestone at feature locations throughout the proposed elevation of the Aldi store ensures it relates to the heritage character of the town, the ACA and Frybrook House to the south”.
The submission states that following Bat and Badger surveys, no significant effects on biodiversity are likely.“Construction and operational mitigation proposed for the development satisfactorily addresses the potential for significant effects on the badgers, bats, avian and aquatic sensitive receptors through the application of the standard construction and operational phase controls outlined in this report. No significant effects on biodiversity are likely”.
In conclusion the consultants say: We trust that this FI response satisfactorily addresses the items raised in the FI request and it is respectfully requested that the Planning Authority issue a grant of permission for the proposed development, subject to appropriate conditions.
The proposed development introduces a discount foodstore at a suitable town centre site at a back land location which will integrate with the site’s context and proximity to Boyle ACA and Frybrook House. The proposals will implement significant planning and conservation gain through the provision of an Aldi store which will increase the choice and variety of convenience retail in Boyle and its surrounding hinterland, as well as bringing a vacant and derelict terrace of buildings fronting Patrick Street (including NIAH listed buildings) back into sustainable use as 5 no. residential dwellings. This will greatly enhance the appearance of Patrick Street and bring renewed vitality and footfall to this part of Boyle town centre”.
Roscommon Co Co acknowledged receipt of the further information on December 18th and said “The information will be assessed and you will be notified of the Council’s decision in due course”.
(General file pic of an Aldi store for illustration only)
