Meath estate ‘wholly inappropriate’ for new homes
A proposal to build three new homes on a green area in Bettystown has drawn strong opposition from a local councillor.
The planning application, lodged with Meath County Council by Redbreast Investments Limited, seeks permission for the construction of three dwellings, along with new boundary treatments, alterations to the existing footpath and road, and associated site works.
Fianna Fáil councillor Stephen McKee said he was opposing the scheme “on behalf of local residents,” describing the Foxbury green as “a beautiful space that is used daily by local children to play on and enjoy, and provides an important safe, open space for the benefit of all residents.”
The Foxbury estate, built almost 30 years ago, was designed with the green area at its centre, he noted.
“It has always been the belief and understanding of residents that the green areas of Foxbury are for the sole use and enjoyment of the residents and furthermore, that no part of them could be developed upon,” the councillor said.
“It is simply inconceivable that planning for any homes would be given permission on such an important piece of green space.”
Cllr McKee also raised concerns about flood risk, pointing out that the site is designated as Zone B.
“It is at high risk of flooding,” he said.
“We have seen in recent years the devastation caused in the East Meath area as a result of flooding. There is a serious risk that additional housing at this location will exacerbate the current flooding problems. This reason alone should prevent planning being granted on this site.”
"A grant of planning permission for homes on a green area amenity within an established housing development such as Foxbury could set a dangerous and undesirable precedent for future planning applications in the East Meath area.”
While acknowledging the need for more housing in the region, Cllr McKee said Foxbury’s green was not the “appropriate” location.
“I recognise the importance of providing more houses in the East Meath area into the future to meet demand. Nevertheless, it is clear to me and residents that the site in question is wholly inappropriate for such a development,” Cllr McKee added.