Planning granted for 32 house development in Mayo county town

Mayo County Council have granted planning permission for 32 'much needed' residential units located in the centre of Castlebar.

Planning permission was granted to MVS Construction Ltd to develop a mixed housing development consisting of 32 units on a greenfield site located along the Turlough Road and An Sruthán Road at Knockthomas, Castlebar.

The development which is approximately 3km from Castlebar town centre will consist of one four-bed detached house, three three-bed detached houses, 16 three-bed semi-detached houses and 12 two-bed terrace houses.

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In granting planning permission for the development, the council stated that the proposed scheme 'represents a good housing mix' and provides much needed residential units in Castlebar to help meet the housing target of 708 in the current Mayo County Development Plan 2022-2028.

The scheme was designed by Taylor McCarney Architects and in the architectural design statement, it stated that 'by offering a diverse housing mix, the proposed scheme aims to create a vibrant and inclusive neighbourhood, fostering a sense of dynamism within the community'.

“In conclusion the proposed housing project harmoniously blends into the neighbourhood and surrounding environment of Castlebar. It introduces a new residential area with diverse housing options suited for different demographics, meant to improve the community’s welfare and local economy.

“Its convenient location makes it attractive for prospective residents who prefer enhanced connectivity to town centre amenities and access roads. The design offers private outdoor areas and designated parking. By capitalising on the project’s unique mix of houses, it will create a distinctive identity in the region,” the design statement read.

Three submissions were received from residents of the adjacent An Sruthán estate who expressed concern regarding some of the proposed houses overlooking their property and whether it will affect their privacy.

One resident wrote in their submission: “It appears to me that at least two of the planned houses - which are two-storey, will significantly overlook my property and that all privacy in my garden will be gone. I am extremely concerned about this. The apparent contrast between the height levels of the estates also causes concern in relation to water runoff into my estate.”

There were also concerns expressed regarding wildlife on the site including species of birds and bats living in a 'mature native hedge' and they will be impacted by any development.

However despite the submissions, planners for Mayo County Council accepted the developer had 'satisfactorily addressed all the information requested' by the planning authority and granted planning permission subject to 20 planning conditions.