An Coimisúin Pleanála has overturned a council decision to refuse planning permission for a new retail store on the outskirts of Ennis.
The local authority had previously determined that the Limerick Road development would pose a significant traffic hazard.
Reaching its decision in May, Clare County Council claimed that in addition to concerns for public endangerment, the store would act as a counter-attraction to the existing retail offering in Ennis town centre.
The application had received objections from local residents and traders, but the council’s decision was appealed to An Coimisúin Pleanála.
In the appeal , RMLA Planning Consultants on behalf of Developer, Breda Connors stated that ” operational experience associated with comparable Tesco stores shows the introduction of smaller neighbourhood stores primarily serves their catchment area and do not adversely impact trading performance within existing town centres”.
The applicant also pointed out that previous planning permissions associated with the Heather Hill House site had already been granted with the existing road safety arrangements in place.
An Coimisúin Pleanála ultimately ruled the development wouldn’t adversely impact on the amenities of the area, impact the vitality of the town centre or create a traffic hazard.
The ruling now paves the way for the amalgamation of three shop units to deliver a convenience store and off-licence area.
The proposed supermarket is expected to generate a turnover of approximately €4.7 million when operational.
