Decision close for controversial glamping planning proposal near scenic walk in Waterford

Waterford City and County Council are due to make a decision next week on the planning application for a new glamping accommodation facility in Ardmore, County Waterford.

David and Laura Mulcahy submitted the application for the glamping pods on 14 May 2025 and now the Council are due to make their decision on Tuesday, 8 July.

The application proposes the provision of five glamping pods on a 0.36 hectare site at Dysert, Ardmore, just 1.2km from the centre of the village. The proposal also includes a caretaker storage unit, five car parking spaces, hard and soft landscaping as well as a biodiversity zone, and all associated works above and below ground.

There is an existing vehicular access point to the site on the western boundary off New Line Road. The proposal details plans to improve this existing entrance by providing a set-back area from New Line Road to allow cars to pull off the road while the proposed electric gates open.

Each of these pods will be of timber frame construction and float on four steel footings. They will all consist of double bedrooms, a shower room and kitchen, as well as a living and dining room.

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Since the plans for the glamping pods were lodged, there have been numerous objections made by locals for a variety of reasons.

As the proposed site is close to the scenic Ardmore Cliff Walk, many locals have cited their concerns over the potential disruptions the pods’ construction and existence could have on the area.

Many people have expressed concern that the development could have a detrimental impact on the wildlife, scenery and appeal of the walk. They have also argued that it could set a precedent for further development which could take away from the character of the area entirely.

The planning report has found, however, that the plans submitted pose no threat to the surrounding environment or the Ardmore Cliff Walk.

It also suggests that the local area could benefit from the development in terms of the local economy and the provision of accommodation for tourists.