Two new homes approved for Castlepollard development

A Mullingar based company has been granted planning for two new two-bedroom homes at Townspark Rise, Water Street, Castlepollard. MGNY Developments Ireland Ltd received the approval subject to 15 conditions.

The development will consist of an additional semi-detached block containing two residential units, driveways, gardens, walls, fencing, footpaths and a bin storage compound. Permission has also been granted for alterations and upgrades to elements of the development previously approved and extended.

The changes include modifications to the entrance, internal roads and turning head, parking, green areas, lighting, landscaping and site services.

Westmeath County Council determined the proposal would be in accordance with the development of the area, having regard to the County Development Plan 2021-2027.

Among the conditions is a requirement for the developer to enter into a Section 47 agreement with the council restricting first occupation of the homes to individual purchasers or people eligible for social, affordable or cost-rental housing, subject to the terms set out by the council.

The development will also have to include electric vehicle charging provision. A minimum of 10% of the car parking spaces must have functioning EV charging points, with ducting provided to facilitate charging points at the remaining spaces in the future.

Landscaping must be carried out during the first planting season following occupation or substantial completion, while public open space areas are to be made available for public use. Ecological measures will also apply, including a restriction on hedgerow, tree or scrub removal during the bird breeding season from March 1 to August 31.

The developer must enter into an agreement with the council under Part V of the Planning and Development Act in relation to social and affordable housing.

A €12,000 development bond, €6,000 per residential unit, must also be lodged with the council before construction begins.

In addition, a development contribution of €7,007.04 is payable to towards infrastructure and facilities benefiting the development.

The permission will take effect subject to the statutory period for any appeal to An Bord Pleanála.