Tuesday, February 18, 2025

‘Rural communities suffering at hands of planners’

SETTING up home is a milestone, one that most people look forward to but one that is fraught with ‘red tape’ obstacles for very many rural dwellers according to one concerned locally elected representative.
Speaking at the June Meeting of Mullingar Municipal District, Cllr John Shaw raised a motion seeking further clarification on what has become a contentious issue for many people.

“I ask that this council revisit the rural planning policy, in particular the area of local needs,” said Cllr Shaw, newly elected Mayor of Mullingar District.
The reply that stressed that Westmeath County Council supports balanced and sustainable development did not go far enough to allay the concerns of Cllr. Shaw or of some of his chamber colleagues who shared his frustration on behalf of those experiencing a planning deadlock.
ACCESSIBILITY WORRY
“I’m not saying we should open the doors to anyone who wants to build but I think the process should be more accessible. If someone wants to build a house, it can make a big difference to them and to their community,” said Cllr. Shaw.
A doleful Cllr. Frankie McDermott expressed his support for the motion.
“It is absolutely crazy, maybe planning find it entertaining to make life difficult,” quipped the Fine Gael councillor.
Another representative in full agreement was Cllr. Paddy Hill, who represents a constituent base that is largely rural.
“The guidelines are interpreted by planners in their own way,” said Cllr. Hill.
“The whole issue needs only common sense. It is not going to go away,” stressed Cllr. Hill.
“The message needs to go out loud and clear to planners,” he insisted.
“The council is sensitive to the need to facilitate people who are intrinsically linked to a rurally based community. The council is also in favour of housing development in structurally weak areas where there is evidence that housing will contribute to the revitalisation of the rural community,” said Director of Services, Martin Murray.
NO REVIEW
Having made this point, the Director stated that there are no plans at present to review the present policy.
“It is development for the good of rural Ireland we are talking about. It has gotten enough of a kick in recent times,” said Cllr Shaw.
“It is obvious that there is a strong feeling here. The existing policy is generous enough which is why no review is being recommended. However, to fully debate the issue, it will be put before the appropriate SPC,” said Mr. Murray.

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