A development of over 100 homes near the Clare – Limerick border has been given the green light.
Clare County Council has cleared the way for Kenmare Plant Hire to construct a new housing estate in Athlunkard.
The development will involve the demolition of existing derelict buildings on the Corbally Road, followed by the construction of 49 houses and 52 apartments, serviced by 156 parking spaces.
There will be 28 one-bed properties, 24 two-bed units and 49 three-bed units, while 20 of the homes will become social or affordable housing.
The plans raised a number of concerns with local residents, particularly relating to traffic congestion in Westbury.
A submission from the Carraig Midhe Residents Association called for the entrance to be moved in the interest of child safety and road deterioration to account for a heavier volume of traffic.
The group also flagged issues with anti-social behaviour and wants to see the Garda Station in Ardnacrusha manned on a 24/7 basis, stating that the area is “frequently targeted by burglaries, which can take hours for Limerick units to respond to.”
The residents also say that three of the schools in the area are not safely accessible from the Clare side and that with 101 houses due to come on board, active travel plans must be in place prior to construction.
The document signed by 82 people in the estate is also calling for developer levies to go towards the provision of a new community centre, a multi-use games area and public bins in the Knockballymeath area.
Clare County Council granted permission subject to 22 conditions.
