Permission granted for new apartment complex in Waterford city

An Bord Pleánala has granted permission for the development of a new apartment complex close to Waterford city centre.

The local authority had approved the project - located on the corner of Leamy Street and Morrisons Avenue - but this decision was appealed by a local resident.

The seven one-bed apartments are to be built on the site of two commercial units which have been vacant for some time. These units will be demolished as part of the project.

A dozen submissions were received during the planning process and planning inspector Peter Nelson summarised some of the main concerns in his report for An Bord Pleánala.

Those opposed to the development submitted that the second floor of the proposed development is unnecessary and that the complex will be "overbearing" as it overlooks neighbouring houses and gardens.

It was also submitted that it would be "irresponsible" not to provide car parking as part of the development as the site is located in an area of the city which is "under severe pressure for private parking".

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Submissions were also received regarding the communal space within the proposed complex, the amount of outdoor amenity space, the size and density of the apartments and the location of the main access entrance to the complex.

Having visited the site and considered the submissions received, the relevant policies and documentation, Mr Nelson said he was satisfied the proposed development " acceptable in terms of residential amenity" and that it "would not seriously injure residential amenities of the area".

A number of conditions have been imposed on the applicant as a condition of the planning permission.