Decision is given on Ballina housing development appeal
An Coimisiún Pleanála have upheld a decision made by Mayo County Council to grant planning permission for an 11-house development in Ballina, rejecting the developer’s appeal for an additional unit.
Applicants John and Carina Craven originally sought planning permission for 12 three-bedroom two-storey dwellings at Nally Street and Brook Street.
The local authority then sought a revised layout for the development to incorporate additional parking spaces as required in planning guidelines, as well as additional open public space. This was submitted by the applicant and the revised plan resulted in the loss of one housing unit, which was subsequently granted planning permission by Mayo County Council in November 2024.
An appeal was made by the applicant regarding this decision to An Coimisiún Pleanála asking for consideration to be given to the original planning application and to granting the full 12 units. The applicant said a minimum of 12 units would be required to make the project financially viable and Ballina town centre had a high demand for dwellings.
The applicant also requested the financial contribution and financial bond required by the Council be reduced in order to make the scheme financially viable. There is a Development Contribution Scheme in place requiring a financial contribution from a developer in order for a development to proceed while the financial bond is a payment that would be returned to the developer following satisfactory completion of a development.
An Coimisiún Pleanála said they considered it appropriate the twelfth unit be omitted from the development in favour of car parking and open space. Planners also recommended a new pedestrian access be provided between the public open space and Brook Street in order to provide permeability and promote active travel.
An Coimisiún Pleanála planners said they recommended no change for either the financial contribution or financial bond as they considered both to be appropriate.
They granted planning permission for the amended 11 house development.
