Extension of time for Castlepollard development

A plan for a commercial and residential development in the centre of Castlepollard has been granted an extension of the time limit in which it must be completed.

John Rabbitt was granted permission to construct a terrace dwelling, apartments, and commercial units at The Square, Castlepollard in 2029. Mr Rabbitt made the application to extend time to undertake the development in February.

The appellant submitted the application in respect of the site at The Square, Castlepollard, that is also at Water Court, Water Street, Castlepollard.

Mr Rabbitt applied to extend the duration of the planning permission to demolition as necessary, the existing buildings on site, construction of a two-bedroom terrace dwelling, two two-bedroom apartments, and two commercial units, all fronting The Square, and the construction of four two-bedroom two-storey semi-detached dwellings to the rear of the site.

The previously approved application also covers all associated car parking, access onto public roads, connections to the existing public drainage infrastructure, and all private and public open spaces. In his submission, Mr Rabbitt said the site was originally his home place and that he acquired adjoining properties. The appellant said the proposed development would increase the number of people living on The Square in Castlepollard and also provide retail units:

“The area is deprived of both people living in the town and I am trying to improve the amount of retail activity.”

He said the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and the effect it had on the building trade impinged on his plans to progress with the development.

The local authority planners approved the application to extend the duration subject to one condition.