Concerns for Boyne birds halts houses
PERMISSION REFUSED FOR 357 HOMES AT COLPE OVER CONSERVATION FEARS
AN Bord Pleanala has refused permission for a new 357 home development on 13.44 hectares on lands at Colpe West.
The board cited concerns with the impact to birds on the nearby Boyne. They said that they could not be satisfied beyond reasonable scientific doubt that the development would not adversely affect the integrity of the Boyne SPA.
They felt it would contravene the ‘conservation and preservation of a European site.’
As part of the planning application, a survey had to be done and it highlights the fact that the site is within the catchment of the estuary of the River Boyne and that ‘significant effects could not be ruled out to the Boyne Coast and Estuary SAC’ in respect of the development.
It said the site is not located within or directly adjacent to any Natura 2000 area (SAC or SPA).
‘ There are no water courses on the lands although surface drainage pathways are likely to lead ultimately to the Stagrennan Stream and thereon to the Boyne Estuary,’ the report states.
‘ The Drogheda wastewater treatment plant is not in compliance with prescribed treatment standards and however ample capacity exists to accept the likely additional loading from this development. No significant effects to Natura areas are likely to arise from these sources. Arising from this assessment, mitigation has been proposed. With the implementation of these measures no adverse effects to the integrity of the SAC will occur. This conclusion is based on best scientific knowledge,’ the report added.
The plan was to build 169 houses, 52 duplex apartments and 136 apartments, ranging in size from 3-6 storeys.
As well as the homes, it was to feature a childcare facility and associated outdoor play area, road infrastructure and a pedestrian bridge over the railway line.
The application was made under the Strategic Housing Development policy and went straight to An Bord Pleanala for consideration.
Based close to Gaelscoil an Bhradáin Feasa, the road infrastructure also included the proposed realignment of a section of Colpe Road and the realignment of the southern section of Mill Road.