Planning proposal reference number 04/3809 - The construction of 22 new residential properties in Dun An Oir, Kanturk.  Planning is being sought for 6 new houses on the site of the previously demolished 1-6 Oakridge as well as 8 duplex properties adjacent to Elmpark and Ashdale, at the rear of the estate.

We object to planning proposal reference number 04/3809 on several grounds including but not exclusive to:

Overdevelopment - The  addition of so many new properties will increase the strain on the water supply and waste systems.  The population of the estate will increase but the development will result in the number of open green areas being reduced by two.  The proposed site beside Elmpark and Ashdale is also the only green area flat enough for children in the area to play ball sports.

Amenities - In addition to the overdevelopment concerns Dun An Óir also lacks the amenities to cater for the additional residents that would come.  The one small playground on site is dilapidated and an injury risk for anyone who uses it.  A pedestrian crossing that received planning approval in quarter 1 of 2017 has never been built meaning anyone leaving the estate and walking in the direction of the town (including children on their way to school) has to cross the main road without assistance.  A crèche proposed in early designs was never developed.

Design - The addition of duplex properties is out of character with the current design of the estate. The tighter congestion of properties may also lead to issues with parking vehicles.

Safety - The 6 houses proposed at Oakridge will block the line of sight for traffic coming around the corner to and from The Laurels, Ashdale, The Sycamores, and Elmpark.  We also have concerns about the structural impact any new construction at Oakridge might have on the houses in Ashdale directly behind the proposed construction site.  These houses have already had to endure the demolition of the houses that were previously in situ behind them.

Light & Shading - The construction of the 6 houses at Oakridge in particular will have a negative impact on houses in Ashdale, e.g. Ashdale houses numbered 1,2,3, and 4. The new houses will block light from entering the existing properties at certain points and create undesirable shading.  The new houses will also provide unsightly views for the existing residents.

Conservation & Wildlife - The residents have concerns over the wildlife in the greenery that borders the back of the estate by Elmpark and Ashdale. There are many bats roosted in this greenery which we believe are protected by law in the Republic of Ireland under the Wildlife Act 1976 and subsequent amendments.