Controversial Crosshaven apartment development appealed

A controversial housing development in a village in county Cork has been held up, as an objection has been made to An Bord Pleanála.

O’Flynn Construction had applied to build 40 apartments at Drakes Point, Knocknagore, Crosshaven.

Cork County Council originally granted permission for the development of six one-bedroom apartments, 29 two-bedroom apartments and five three-bedroom apartments in two separate three and four storey blocks, subject to 47 conditions.

Two individuals, who had previously submitted objections on the development to the Council’s planning department have come together to request that the proposals not be allowed to proceed.

They highlight a number of areas of concern with the development including its potential impact on protected structures, as well as the potential impacts on red squirrels and rare plant species in the area.

They also raise concerns that the proposed lighting plan for the site will adversely impact on the current habitat, and are particularly concerned for bats specifically.

The pair have also called for a Natura Impact Statement to be carried out, while claiming the applicants were misleading in their application.

In summation of their submission the appellants wrote: “This application would be fine in a brown field site in a dockland development, however, multi-storey blocks in the historical receiving landscape of Crosshaven House is highly inappropriate and not in keeping with the village.” Last week an objector did not include the relevant paperwork when making the appeal to An Bord Pleanála on the development, and it had been deemed invalid, therefore meaning the development could proceed.

However, this has now put a stop to any construction until An Bord Pleanála make a decision on the case. That’s due to happen by December 7.