An Bord Pleanála paves way for new Ramelton development

The development of new commercial units and an apartment block in Ramelton can go ahead following a ruling by An Bord Pleanála.

The proposed development on shore road was the subject of an appeals process.

However, An Bord Pleanála has ruled that the works can proceed, subject to seventeen conditions.

An Bord Pleanála says that it had regard for Donegal County Development Plan 2018-24, particularly in relation to the renewal and regeneration of strategic towns including Ramelton, in making its decision.

They say that, subject to compliance with the conditions set out, the development is 'acceptable and would not seriously injure the residential or visual amenities of the area and would not adversely impact on the character and setting of the designated heritage town of Ramelton'.

Developer Nicholas O'Hanlon Ltd sought permission to demolish an existing commercial building, a garage, on Shore Road and to erect a building to include two commercial units on the ground floor.

The first floor would include two apartments with a further two apartments on the second floor and one on the third floor.

The planning application includes provision for connection to the public sewer and all other associated site development works.

County Council gave conditional permission to the development in November, 2022, but a Michele Brannigan lodged an appeal to the planning authority.

The appellant contended that the development would not be 'in keeping' with the Ramelton Action Plan 2020.

The appeal said that the existing building 'has been identified as a historical building in the town, worthy of repair'.

The appeal document argued that the development is 'not attractive nor in keeping with the character of the historic town of Ramelton' and claims the building would exacerbate traffic congestion and pose risks to pedestrians.

The planning body has laid down seventeen conditions which the developer must comply with.