20-year low for planning requests

THE number of planning applications in Kerry is the lowest in 20 years, reflecting the economic downturn.

From a peak of 4,900 applications, in 2006, the number dropped to 1,000, last year. In addition, only four planners are currently working in Kerry County Council, compared with 14 at the height of the construction boom.

“In particular, applications for large-scale housing and commercial developments are at their lowest level since the early 90s,” said county manager Tom Curran, in his annual budget report.