Friday, October 11, 2013

Kilrush Plan deadline looms

The public consultation stage for proposed amendments to the Draft Kilrush Town and Environs Development Plan 2014-2020 will end on Tuesday 29th October next after which the Elected Members of Kilrush Town Council will meet to adopt the blueprint.

Once adopted at the end of 2013, the Plan will determine the future land-use needs of the town and surrounding area in terms of economic development, recreational and community requirements, as well as residential, transport and infrastructural needs.

“The coming fortnight represents the final opportunity for the people of Kilrush and Cappagh to have their say in the preparation of the Development Plan,” commented Mayor of Kilrush Paul Moroney.

The Mayor continued: “Obtaining input from the local community during the public consultation stage of the plan-making process is important to the final outcome of the Kilrush Development Plan.  This is the only Plan that deals directly with the future development of Kilrush Town and therefore, it is important that the people of the town have their say in its formulation.”

According to Brian McCarthy, Senior Executive Planner, Planning and Enterprise Development, Clare County Council:  “The Council acknowledges the excellent engagement by the public and Elected Members during the preparation of this important Plan, which is expected to be adopted in December. Some of the proposed modifications include a specific section/chapter on Kilrush harbour area and marina which proposes to further complement the economic, tourism and heritage features of Kilrush, a further elaboration on green infrastructure and walking routes in and surrounding Kilrush and Cappagh, and the proposed zoning of lands to facilitate an eco-hotel.”

Mr. McCarthy said that all written submissions and observations made to the Planning Authority in relation to the Draft Plan will be taken into consideration before the finalising of the Plan.

Copies of the proposed amendments to the Draft Kilrush Town and Environs Development Plan 2014 - 2020 are available for public inspection at www.clarecoco.ie or during normal working hours at Kilrush Town Council, Áras Contae an Chláir, Kilrush Public Library Cultúrlann Sweeney Library, De Valera Library and Clare Local Study Centre in Ennis.

Written submissions or observations (2 copies) with respect to the proposed amendments to the Draft Plan may be made in writing to the Planning and Enterprise Development Department, Áras Contae an Chláir, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare. Alternatively, submissions or observations may also be emailed to forwardplan@clarecoco.ie or may be faxed to (065) 6892071. Submissions made via email must include the full name and address of the person making the submission. (Max size 5MB).

The closing date for receipt for submissions is 4:00 p.m. Tuesday 29th October, 2013.