Thank you for referring amendment details on the above to An Taisce for comment. It is wished that you consider the following:

Amendment 46 It is considered rezoning of the Newbridge Silverware site from Enterprise & Employment to Town Centre is an incorrect direction, given the existing quantum (circa 40,000m2) of undeveloped Town Centre zoned lands. This amendment will undermine the functionality of the existing town core. It will dilute the focus of the existing town centre that is bounded by Edward Street, Main Street and Military Road and will contribute to the trend of weakening town centres seen recent years in favour of out of town centres such as what has occurred in Kildare Town and the expansion of Kildare Outlet Village. In the future, Newbridge Town Centre will have to compete with planned expansion of the Kildare Village Outlet Village. Existing businesses in Newbridge and potential businesses will need to attract high numbers of footfall in a consolidated area of high quality shops that are within easy walking distances. The amendment goes against international best practice in creating accessible, pedestrian focused town centres in line with sustainable and proper planning guidelines. Furthermore, the development of the existing function of the site would not be constrained by the current zoning Enterprise & Employment which enjoys specific objectives in the LAP.

Amendment 7 We note submission No.14 in relation to Cox’s Cash and Carry and a rezoning from Industrial and Warehousing to Retail/Commercial. This amendment represents additional undermining of the functionality of the existing town core. It is likely to lead to discount store development that will neutralise the provision of this type of service in the town centre. The expansion of the retail zone this far from the historic town core will lead to increased traffic movements that will limit the economic performance of the town. It is submitted that this proposal is one of a few that is in conflict with the draft County Kildare Retail Strategy. It goes against international best practice in creating accessible, pedestrian focused town centres in line with sustainable and proper planning guidelines.

Area of High Archaeological Potential It is request to reinstate on the maps, as per the existing Newbridge Local Area Plan, the need for a geophysical survey in the area of high archaeological potential at the site of the Great Connell Priory.

It is asked that the above is considered, and where not agreed with, that evidenced based reasoning be given with regard planning and sustainable development. Please acknowledge our submission and advise us of any decision made, with all planners’ reports attached 2007.

Download the submission here.