The council recently invited submissions on a proposal that includes public realm refurbishment and enhancement in Roscrea.

Concern over Roscrea development plan

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Concern has been expressed over Tipperary Co Council's plan to redevelop Gantly Road in Roscrea.

The council recently invited submissions on a proposal that includes public realm refurbishment and enhancement in Roscrea, including the upgrading of Gantly Road with new high-quality paving, kerbing, landscaping, public lighting, improved street furniture and utility diversions and associated works.

A Part 8 report on the plan was discussed at last week's meeting of the council's Thurles Municipal District. Executive Planner Fergal O'Donnell briefed members on the plan, elements of which include realignment of kerbs and footpaths, and new crossings in a scheme that would support Age-friendly Neighbourhood measures. A Regeneration and Development Fund application would be made later this month.

But, while welcoming this progress, Cllr Noel Coonan asked why there was no mention of additional access linkages between Gantly Road and Main St. People were told that improved linkages would be provided when the plan was first put to them, and there is concern among local business people over developing the main street, Cllr Coonan said.

Senior Executive Planner Anne Marie Devaney said the Part 8 related specifically to the regeneration and revitalisation of Gantly Road. Access points to the main street are not part of this plan, though these could be developed by private landowners as outlined in the masterplan for the area.

Cllr Coonan said people were led to believe that the council would be developing the access points, and specific locations were identified. He was concerned that this plan is being “put on the long finger”.

Ms Devaney said the access points would be subject to individual landowners coming forward to redevelop their land, and this would be a separate aspect of the Gantly Road plan. The council's plan to develop houses to the south of Gantly Road would be another aspect.

Cllr Michael Smith suggested that the council should meet with local business people again to discuss any concerns.

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