This report sets out the proposed Material Alterations to the Draft Castleconnell Local Area Plan (LAP) 2023 - 2029, following consideration of submissions received during the public display period of the Draft LAP. The report forms part of the statutory procedure for preparing a new LAP set out under Section 20 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended). It is a key element in the process of bringing the Draft Plan to adoption.

This report comprises the following parts: 

  1. Introduction;
  2. Amendments to Local Area Plan Written Statement;
  3. Amendments to the Settlement Capacity Audit;
  4. Amendments to Local Area Plan Maps;

Updated Environmental reports are also set out in the document.

The Draft LAP was placed on public display for a period of 6 weeks from 1st of October 2022 to the 14th of November 2022 inclusive. A total of 48 no. written submissions were received within the statutory timeframe for public display.

The 48 no. submissions were considered by the Chief Executive, responses and recommendations were presented in a Chief Executive’s report, dated the 14th of December 2022 and issued to the Elected Members of the Metropolitan District of Limerick for consideration. A briefing meeting was held for the Elected Members of the Metropolitan District of Limerick to outline the contents of the Chief Executive’s Report on the 9th of January 2023.

The Elected Members of the Metropolitan District of Limerick at their meeting on the 9th of January 2023 passed a resolution to make the Draft LAP, subject to the alterations set out in the Chief Executives Report, subject to further public consultation on the Material Alterations.

In accordance with the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended), written submissions with respect to the proposed Material Alterations to the Draft Local Area Plan can only be considered. The closing date for the submissions on the Material Alterations is 5pm on the 27th of February 2023. This display period will be followed by the preparation of a second Chief Executive’s Report to the Members on any submissions received on the proposed Material Alterations. Members may then decide to make the LAP, with or without the proposed alterations or with modifications to the proposed alterations, subject to the provisions of the Planning and Development Act, 2000 (as amended). The formal making of the LAP is by resolution of the Elected Members. During the LAP process, the Members of the Metropolitan District of Limerick must consider the proper planning and sustainable development of the area, statutory obligations and any relevant plans and policies of the Government or any Minister of the Government.

Proposed Amendments to Draft Castleconnell Local Area Plan 2023 – 2029

The following sets out amendments, which include text to be omitted struck through in red and wording to be inserted underlined in green. Where policies or objectives are proposed to be included or amended, the policy/objective numbers of those in the Draft Plan may need to be revised.