Tipperary couple lodge new plans for three glamping pods after application deemed invalid
A Tipperary couple have lodged a new planning application for three glamping pods in Ardfinnan after their original application was deemed invalid by the council.
Brian and Jennifer Condon had applied to Tipperary County Council seeking planning permission to develop a glamping site, with space for three glamping pods on a site at Knockballiniry, Ardfinnan.
As well as the glamping pods, the Condons have also sought permission for the construction of an amenity area, including shower room and drying area attached to an existing agricultural building, three parking spaces, bicycle parking, and a revised entrance.
The council said that the original application was deemed to be invalid because of issues with the site notice that was put up at the site.
“On inspection of the land to which the application relates on the August 7, 2026, it was noted that the site notice in place related to a previous application on site,” the council said.
“The application therefore does not comply with the provisions of articles 17 and 19 of the Planning and Development Regulation 2001, as amended, as it does not adequately inform the public of the works proposed,” they added.
Mr and Mrs Condon have now lodged a new planning application for the development of the glamping pods.
The previous planning application for the new glamping accommodation was supported by Knockmealdown Active, a cross-community initiative that aims to promote the Knockmealdown Mountains and what they have to offer.
In a letter to the local authority, Knockmealdown Active said that the glamping pods would help to address a severe lack of tourist accommodation that’s available in the area.
“Time and again, we have come across the lack of accommodation being highlighted by visitors coming to this area,” they said.
“When we host the St Declan’s Way Walk, stage three of which begins in Goatenbridge and finishes at Mount Melleray, people have to book accommodation as far away as Dungarvan, and even further than that.
“The proposal for accommodation pods, virtually next door to the new trailhead in Knockballiniry, has been met with great approval from our group,” they added.
“Reasonably priced accommodation will help keep visitors longer in the area, and their spend will help all businesses in the wider local area,” Knockmealdown Active said.
Tipperary County Council is due to make a decision on the new plans by November 3.