RGDATA welcomes Donegal planning decision

Grocers' lobby group RGDATA has welcomed a decision by An Bord Pleanála to refuse planning permission for a new out-of-town superstore in Donegal town.

In a decision taken late last week, the Board refused planning permission to Keeney Construction Limited for a 3,350 sq metre superstore on the N56 Donegal to Killybegs Road.

Donegal County Council had previously granted permission for the proposed development in November 2002.

Ailish Forde, Director General of RGDATA claimed the decision was of national importance and sent out a clear signal to developers that new national roads were not being constructed and developed for their convenience alone or for the sole benefit of large retailers.

"This is an important decision as it makes it clear that retail developments will not be tolerated in out of town locations if they clog up the national routes, or threaten the vitality and viability of town centres," Forde said.

The Board decided to reject the proposed development on two grounds - traffic impact and the damage that the proposed development would inflict on the town centre of Donegal.