Approval granted for 32 new homes in Mayo town
Mayo County Council has given the go-ahead for a 32-home development in Castlebar.
The new housing estate will be located on a greenfield site between the Turlough Road and An Sruthán Road at Knockthomas, Castlebar.
It will consist of one four-bed detached house, three three-bed detached houses, 16 three-bed semi-detached houses and 12 two-bed terrace houses.
The local authority said the scheme is a good housing mix and will help the council to meet its housing targets.
The scheme was designed by Taylor McCarney Architects and in the architectural design statement, it stated that 'by offering a diverse housing mix, the proposed scheme aims to create a vibrant and inclusive neighbourhood, fostering a sense of dynamism within the community'.
“In conclusion, the proposed housing project harmoniously blends into the neighbourhood and surrounding environment of Castlebar," the design statement added. "It introduces a new residential area with diverse housing options suited for different demographics, meant to improve the community’s welfare and local economy.
“Its convenient location makes it attractive for prospective residents who prefer enhanced connectivity to town centre amenities and access roads. The design offers private outdoor areas and designated parking. By capitalising on the project’s unique mix of houses, it will create a distinctive identity in the region."
There were submissions from residents of the nearby An Sruthán estate who expressed concern that some of units will overlook their properties, potentially impacting privacy.
“It appears to me that at least two of the planned houses, which are two-storey, will significantly overlook my property and that all privacy in my garden will be gone. I am extremely concerned about this. The apparent contrast between the height levels of the estates also causes concern in relation to water runoff into my estate,” commented one resident.
There were also concerns expressed regarding wildlife on the site including species of birds and bats living in a "mature native hedge".
The council granted planning permission subject to 20 conditions.
