Centre hit by locals’ protests

THE Kerry branch of An Taisce and residents have voiced concerns about the traffic implications of a major shopping project earmarked for Killarney.

Dunnes Stores and Penneys are understood to be the anchor tenants of a development proposed for the former Torc Great Southern Hotel site, at Park Road, close to the town centre.

Killarney Town Council decided Monday night to rezone the 6.5-acre site from residential to town centre use, opening the way for a planning application.

Limerick property developer Robert Butler bought the site two years ago for over €8 million.

While some local residents have welcomed the development, they have expressed concerns about additional traffic - a view echoed by Catherine McMullin of An Taisce.

But town council manager Tom Curran said a traffic assessment would have to be done in connection with any planning application. Residents would also be able to make submissions.

Ms McMullin said the existing residential zoning was more appropriate for the Torc site. She also said a retail development would have a negative impact on a nearby Killarney Outlet Centre and there would be traffic implications.