Planners still contemplating application for Lidl supermarket in Knocknacarra

Planners appear to have approved changes by the developer of a proposed new Lidl supermarket in Knocknacarra, with just minor issues now under the microscope by the city planners.

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 bounded by Leargán and Monalee Manor estates.

The planners demanded that the proposed access to the 20,000 sq ft discount supermarket be changed from the Ballymoneen Road to the Distributor Road, while they also requested that the internal layout also be altered.

The applicant, Florence Thomas, relented to the changes and also proposed to widen Ballymoneen Road and provide footpaths and a pedestrian crossing.

In its letter seeking clarification on the revise plan, City Hall raised six points, all relatively minor in relation to the development.

The planners have asked for further details on the pedestrian movement plan, the location of signs, the lighting layout plan, the cladding on the roof, a noise assessment report and the landscaping design.

Ms Thomas now has six months to give its response to the queries raised after which the council has a further month to reject or approve the development.

The development provides for 102 parking spaces, with an estimated peak parking requirement of approximately 72 spaces.

More than 130 residents from the adjoining Leargán estate signed an objection on the grounds of increased traffic and public safety, predicting that the supermarket could result in anti-social behaviour by youths congregating outside. They also voiced fears about jobs lost in other local shops and supermarkets.

RGDATA – the representative body for family-owned grocery shops – urged the planners to reject the application because of its adverse retail impact.