Appeals could scupper €4m retail project jobs
Last month, Clare County Council granted planning permission to John Jones for the 10,000 sq ft retail development in Miltown Malbay in spite of opposition lodged against the scheme by a rival supermarket operator and a potential rival.
The council decision will provide a much-needed jobs boost to the west Clare town where 50 full-time and part-time positions will be created, as well as additional seasonal employment. A further 70 jobs will be generated during the 12 to 18-month construction phase.
However, appeals have been lodged by a rival retail operator, Richard Coyle of Heinz Londis and two businessmen, Jim Shannon and Michael Gleeson, who are behind plans for a new retail development in the town.
Mr Coyle was successful at An Bord Pleanála level in stopping a previous proposal by Mr Jones.
In their appeal, consultants for Mr Shannon and Mr Gleeson argue that the council has acted ultra vires in giving the plan the go-ahead.
The appeal states that the two businessmen are taking legal advice on the council decision.
Their consultants state: “Clearly, in this case, the planning authority has set aside the provisions of the current statutory local area plan, in favour of a draft plan not yet adopted. This is illegal.”
In the second appeal, consultants for Richard Coyle also argue that the proposal constitutes a material contravention. They state: “The structure proposed is unnecessarily large and bulky to accommodate a supermarket of the size proposed.”
Mr Jones said yesterday that there is disappointment in Miltown Malbay over the appeals lodged.
“It is the people of Miltown who are suffering over this, by not having a proper shopping centre. The people who have appealed have shown a total disregard for the people of Miltown.”
Mr Jones pointed out that his plan includes a playground and an astro-turf pitch.
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