An Taisce considers that a recent decision by An Bord Pleanala is a major indictment of the competence of Mayo County Council in protecting public safety on roads, public health and water quality and heritage.

The Board has refused permission on an application by Carack Investments Ltd for a “hotel village” around the medieval castle at Turin near Kilmaine, which has been restored to a high standard in recent years.

The refusal issued on January 17, 2006 was on 3 grounds:

1. It is considered that the proposed development, by reason of its design and close proximity to Turin Castle would adversely effect the visual and historical integrity, character and setting of this recorded monument (RMP Ref. MA 122-017/02_ which is subject to statutory protection in the record of monuments and places. The proposed development would, therefore, be contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.

2. Having regard to the location of the proposed development on a minor road which is seriously substandard in terms of width and alignment and has restricted sightlines at its junction with the national route 84, it is considered that the proposed development would, therefore endanger public safety by reason of traffic hazard and obstruction to road users.

3. Having regard to the shallow depth of overburden above a regionally important aquifer and having particular regard to the volume of effluent to be disposed of on the site, the Board is not satisfied, on the basis of the submissions made in connection with the planning application and the appeal, that the site can be drained satisfactorily by means of a proprietary wastewater treatment system. The proposed development would, therefore be prejudicial to public health.

Mayo County Plan Ref 04/3017

An Board Pleanala Ref 16.213945

An Taisce is now seeking a response from Mayo County Council as to what action is being taken to ensure that future planning decisions do not breech public safety, public health and heritage protection.

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