Building boom on the cards as planning applications soar

A RECORD number of planning applications has been received in the past week by Cork County Council, signalling a boom start to 2006.

More than 1,800 applications for houses came in during one week with a potential value of over €500 million.

The applications also include a number of significant retail developments.

The largest single housing application has been lodged by Astra Construction Services. The company is proposing to develop a mix of 503 homes, which include some sheltered accommodation at Kilnagleary, Carrigaline.

Blarney-based builders Coleman Brothers have submitted plans for 168 houses at Bawnafinney, Tower.

Limerick-based Chieftan Construction is hoping to build 153 homes at Gortnamona More in Castlemartyr.

Batty Hayes, a developer from Rosscarbery, is proposing to construct 72 houses and a sewage treatment plant at Cappanclare, Inchigeelagh.

A number of applications have also been received for windfarms. Ballybane Windfarms wants to build 13 turbines at Lackenafasoge, Bantry.