New designs proposed for Lidl store in Knocknacarra

Revised designs for the proposed new Lidl supermarket and off-licence in Knocknacarra have been submitted to city planners.

The applicant has redesigned the building itself – to be located on a two-acre site off the Blake Roundabout – as well as making alterations to pedestrian access.

Site owner Florence Thomas previously bowed to pressure from planners and moved the proposed access road from the Ballymoneen Road to the Western Distributor Road.

Hundreds of locals, two residents’ associations and three councillors submitted signed petitions and objections to the plans for the two acre site off the Blake Roundabout which were lodged with Galway City Council in October 2012.

“In relation to design, modifications have been made to the proposed elevations to provide an enhanced appearance to the building and creation of a feature focal point at the store entrance, and to provide a more active elevation facing the carparking area.

“Enhancements to the landscaping layout are proposed particularly in terms of screening and breaking up the central parking area,” the applicants said.

It was also clarified that deliveries will only take place from 7am and 11pm.

The plans involve a 20,000 square foot Lidl on the corner of the Western Distributor Road and Ballymoneen Road and bounded by Leargán and Monalee Manor.

More than 130 residents from the adjoining Leargán estate signed an objection on the grounds of increased traffic and public safety, that it may lead to anti-social behaviour because of youths congregating outside as happens in other nearby supermarkets.

For more, read this week’s Connacht Sentinel.