30 December 2003: A decision by An Bord Pleanala to permit seven blocks of 3- and 4-storey apartments at Louisa Bridge, Leixlip, has been described as 'an unfortunate landmark decision' by local councillor Catherine Murphy.
The project is being undertaken by Triman Developments Limited, but the original nine block proposal was refused by Kildare County Council. The remaining two blocks are now to be the subject of a new planning application.
"The decision demonstrates that on planning matters we are far from the masters of our own destinyy," Cllr Murphy says. "It is obvious from this that a higher premium is paid by the Bord to the Regional Guidelines and the Density Guidelines, neither of which are decided locally."
She added that the decision will be a 'serious cause of concern' and 'will stick out like a sore thumb'. "They will not integrate well with the surrounding developments. While the train station is adjacent, significant local facilities such as shops and schools are a distance away, which will mean that cars will be needed."
Cllr Murphy said the proposed development would have been viewed locally as 'one of the most outrageous'.
She also noted that the Bord had disagreed not only with Kildare County Council, but also with its own inspector, who had recommended a refusal.
