Bord Pleanála gives go-ahead for retail centre near CIT

An Bord Pleanála has overturned a Cork City Council vote and granted planning permission for a retail centre, including an off-licence, in a business park near CIT.

The decision comes almost 10 months after the city’s councillors voted unanimously against the recommendation of planners to amend zoning in the city development plan to facilitate the project in the park off Melbourn Rd in Bishopstown.

Lord Mayor Cllr John Buttimer (FG), who represents the area, criticised the decision. “It highlights the gulf between the planning appeals board and the views of democratically elected politicians who are representing the views and concerns of local people on the ground,” he said.