Plans to build 271 homes at Tinakilly opposed
AN APPEAL has been made to An Bord Pleanála over plans to construct 271 housing units next to Tinakilly House in Rathnew.
Wicklow County Council gave the development the green light in February – but an appeal against that decision has now been lodged.
The planning approval also allows for the first phase of the Rathnew Inner Relief Road, including the upgrade of the Merrymeeting Interchange. However, some local residents have concerns over the impact the development will have on the avenue heading to Tinakilly House.
Cllr John Snell said: ‘Tinakilly and the long laneway leading to it has huge historical importance to Rathnew. People have lots of good memories of the avenue and local schools still use it.’
AN APPEAL has been lodged with An Bord Pleanála over the granting of planning permission for 271 housing units near to Tinakilly House in Rathnew.
In February, Wicklow County Council gave Keldrum Ltd permission to construct the 271 homes, although the initial planning application had sought 369 dwelling units.
The development would also include state roads, parking facilities, pedestrian facilities and open space areas.
The planning condition granted also allows for the first phase of the Rathnew Inner Relief Road including the upgrade of the Merrymeeting Interchange. However, on March 26, an appeal was lodged with An Bord Pleanála against the plans.
Local Rathnew man Cllr John Snell said some residents have concerns over the impact the development will have on the avenue leading up to historic Tinakilly Country House Hotel.
‘Most people understand that houses are needed but some have genuine worries over the roadway which will cut through the avenue to Tinakilly,’ said Cllr Snell. ‘It’s a very important issue for people who grew up in the area.
‘Tinakilly and the long laneway leading to it has huge historical importance to Rathnew and is part of the whole area’s heritage. People have lots of good memories of the avenue and local schools still use it to walk nature trails. It’s a very popular location.’