Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

LAOIS COUNTY COUNCIL Comhairle Chontae Laoise

LAOIS COUNTY DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2011-2017

VOLUME 1: Written Statement

Adopted 11th October 2011 Forward Planning Department, Laois County Council

Table of Contents 1 INTRODUCTION ...... 1 1.1 INTRODUCTION ...... 1 1.2 STRUCTURE OF THE PLAN ...... 5 1.3 STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT ...... 7 1.4 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT ...... 7 1.5 STRATEGIC FLOOD RISK ASSESSMENT ...... 7 1.6 LOCAL AREA PLANNING ...... 7 1.7 FINANCIAL RESOURCES...... 8 2 CURRENT TRENDS AND ISSUES ...... 9 2.1 NATIONAL AND REGIONAL CONTEXT ...... 9 2.2 KEY DEMOGRAPHIC AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC TRENDS ...... 9 2.3 DEPENDENCY ...... 10 2.4 EDUCATION ...... 10 2.5 POVERTY AND SOCIAL INCLUSION ...... 12 2.6 CRIME ...... 12 2.7 ECONOMIC PROFILE ...... 12 2.7.1 Agri- Forestry And Fisheries ...... 13 2.7.2 Manufacturing ...... 13 2.7.3 Services ...... 14 2.7.4 Construction ...... 14 2.7.5 Tourism ...... 14 2.7.6 Enterprise and Employment Creation ...... 14 2.7.7 Unemployment Rate ...... 14 2.8 PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT TRENDS ...... 15 2.8.1 Transport ...... 15 2.8.2 Public Transport ...... 16 2.8.3 Wastewater ...... 16 2.8.4 Water ...... 16 2.8.5 Rural Water Programme ...... 17 2.8.6 Energy ...... 17 2.8.7 Environment ...... 17 2.8.8 Social Infrastructure ...... 17

i 2.8.9 Broadband ...... 19 2.9 KEY ISSUES TO ADDRESS IN THIS PLAN ...... 19 3 DEVELOPMENT PLAN STRATEGY ...... 24 3.1 INTRODUCTION ...... 24 3.2 THE VISION ...... 24 3.2.1 Core Strategy Summary ...... 25 3.2.2 Core Aims ...... 25 3.3 STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES ...... 27 3.3.1 Enterprise And Employment ...... 27 3.3.2 Rural Economy ...... 28 3.3.3 Extractive Industries ...... 28 3.3.4 Energy ...... 29 3.3.5 Peatlands ...... 29 3.3.6 Tourism ...... 29 3.4 THE CORE STRATEGY ...... 30 3.5 PREFERED STRATEGY - STRATEGIC PLANNING ...... 30 3.5.1 Portlaoise Area ...... 31 3.5.2 Borris in Ossory Area ...... 31 3.5.3 Mountmellick Area ...... 32 3.5.4 Luggacurren Area...... 32 3.5.5 Emo Area ...... 32 3.5.6 Rural development ...... 33 3.6 CONFORMANCE WITH NSS AND RGGS...... 33 3.7 SETTLEMENT STRATEGY ...... 34 3.8 DEVELOPMENT WITHIN THE LAST PLAN PERIOD ...... 35 3.9 NATIONAL AND REGIONAL POPULATION TARGETS ...... 35 3.10 LOCAL POLICY CONTEXT ...... 35 3.11 POPULATION TARGETS 2011-2017 ...... 39 3.12 HOUSING LAND REQUIREMENT 2011-2017 ...... 39 3.13 LANDS AVAILABLE WITHIN TOWN / VILLAGE CENTRES ...... 42 3.14 STRATEGIC RESERVE ...... 42 3.15 SETTLEMENT HIERARCHY ...... 43 3.16 PRINCIPAL TOWNS ...... 46

ii 3.17 KEY SERVICE TOWNS ...... 47 3.18 SERVICE TOWNS ...... 48 3.19 LOCAL SERVICE TOWNS ...... 49 3.20 VILLAGES >400 POPULATION...... 50 3.21 VILLAGES < 400 POPULATION ...... 51 3.22 RURAL SETTLEMENTS ...... 52 3.23 OPEN COUNTRYSIDE ...... 52 3.24 RURAL HOUSING STRATEGY ...... 53 3.24.1 Rural Area Types ...... 54 4 HOUSING STRATEGY ...... 62 4.1 INTRODUCTION ...... 62 4.2 SOCIAL INCLUSION ...... 62 4.3 HOUSING STRATEGY 2011-2017 ...... 63 4.3.1 Structure of the Document ...... 64 4.4 HOUSING POLICY ...... 64 4.4.1 hŶĨŝŶŝƐŚĞĚ,ŽƵƐŝŶŐƐƚĂƚĞƐ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͘ϲϱ 4.4.2 Balanced Communities ʹ Providing for a mix of house types, sizes and tenure ...... 65 4.4.3 Housing and Estate Management ...... 65 4.4.4 Homeless Persons ...... 65 4.5 ACCOMMODATION FOR TRAVELLERS ...... 67 4.6 THE ELDERLY ...... 67 4.7 PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES ...... 68 5 SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE ...... 70 5.1 INTRODUCTION ...... 70 5.2 COMMUNITY FACILITIES ...... 70 5.3 EDUCATION ...... 70 5.4 CHILDCARE ...... 72 5.5 HEALTH CARE FACILITIES ...... 73 5.6 LIBRARY SERVICES ...... 74 5.7 ARTS AND CULTURAL FACILITIES ...... 75 5.8 BURIAL GROUNDS...... 76 5.9 EMERGNENCY SERVICES ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙ϳϲ

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iii 6 RECREATION AND AMENITY ...... 79 6.1 INTRODUCTION ...... 79 6.2 OPEN SPACE PROVISION ...... 80 6.3 SPORTS PROVISION IN COUNTY LAOIS ...... 82 6.4 PLAY FACILITIES FOR CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE ...... 83 6.5 SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES ...... 83 7 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ...... 85 7.1 INTRODUCTION ...... 85 7.2 CONTEXT ...... 85 7.3 REQUIREMENTS FOR ECONOMIC SUCCESS ...... 87 7.4 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVES ...... 90 7.5 TYPES OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ...... 91 7.6 LOCATION OF ENTERPRISE AND EMPLOYMENT ...... 93 7.7 TOGHER NATIONAL ENTERPRISE PARK ...... 94 7.8 RETAIL DEVELOPMENT ...... 95 7.9 TOWN CENTRE AND VILLAGE CENTRE ECONOMY ...... 97 7.10 HOME BASED ECONOMIC ACTIVITY ...... 99 7.11 LAND-BASED RURAL ECONOMY AND DIVERSIFICATION ...... 99 7.12 AGRICULTURE ...... 100 7.13 FORESTRY ...... 100 7.14 ALTERNATIVE ENERGY ...... 102 7.15 PEATLANDS ...... 102 7.16 MINERAL AGGREGATES ...... 103 7.17 ADVERTISING ...... 104 8 TOURISM ...... 107 8.1 INTRODUCTION ...... 107 8.2 SLIEVE BLOOM MOUNTAINS ...... 111 8.3 WATERWAYS...... 112 8.4 FESTIVALS AND EVENTS ...... 112 8.5 HISTORIC TOWNS AND VILLAGES ...... 113 8.6 COMMERCIAL TOURISM ASSETS ...... 113 8.7 SUSTAINABLE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT ...... 113 8.8 HOLIDAY HOMES ...... 113

iv 9 ENERGY AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS ...... 116 9.1 INTRODUCTION ...... 116 9.2 CLIMATE CHANGE ...... 117 9.2.1 National Climate Change Strategy 2007-2012 ...... 117 9.2.2 Laois County Climate Change Strategy 2009 ...... 118 9.3 MIDLAND ENERGY AGENCY (MEA) ...... 118 9.4 RENEWABLE ENERGY ...... 118 9.4.1 Wind Energy ...... 119 9.4.2 Hydro Energy ...... 119 9.4.3 Biomass ...... 119 9.4.4 Solar Energy ...... 119 9.4.5 Ground Sources Heating Systems ...... 120 9.4.6 9.4.6 Small Scale Renewable Energy ...... 120 9.4.7 Energy Efficiency & Energy Performance for Buildings ...... 120 9.5 ELECTRICITY ...... 121 9.6 GAS ...... 123 9.7 TELECOMMUNICATIONS ...... 125 9.8 BROADBAND ...... 125 9.9 TELECOMMUNICATIONS MASTS AND ANTENNAE ...... 128 10 TRANSPORT ...... 134 10.1 INTRODUCTION ...... 134 10.2 CONTEXT ...... 134 10.3 TRENDS, CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES ...... 134 10.4 LAND USE AND TRANSPORTATION ...... 136 10.5 ROADS ...... 137 10.5.1 Motorway Network ...... 138 10.5.2 National Road Network ...... 139 10.5.3 Strategic Regional Road Network ...... 141 10.5.4 Regional Roads ...... 142 10.5.5 County Roads ...... 143 10.6 PUBLIC TRANSPORT ...... 143 10.6.1 Rail ...... 144 10.6.2 Bus ...... 144

v 10.7 CYCLING AND WALKING ...... 145 10.8 SPECIFIC TRANSPORT OBJECTIVES 2011-2017 ...... 149 10.9 SURFACE WATER ...... 149 10.9.1 Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) ...... 150 10.9.2 Storm Water ...... 150 10.10 FLOOD RISK ...... 151 11 WATER SERVICES ...... 157 11.1 INTRODUCTION ...... 157 11.2 CONTEXT ...... 158 11.3 WATER SUPPLY ...... 159 11.3.1 Rural Water Protection ...... 159 11.3.2 Public Water Supplies ...... 160 11.3.3 Group Water Schemes ...... 160 11.3.4 Private Wells ...... 161 11.4 WATER CONSERVATION ...... 162 11.5 WASTEWATER TREATMENT ...... 164 11.5.1 Grease and Oil Pollution ...... 166 11.5.2 Wastewater Management ...... 166 11.5.3 Waste Water Discharges ...... 166 12 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT ...... 169 12.1 INTRODUCTION ...... 169 12.2 CONTEXT ...... 169 12.3 CLIMATE CHANGE ...... 169 12.4 LOCAL AGENDA 21 ...... 169 12.5 WATER QUALITY ...... 170 12.5.1 The Water Framework Directive ...... 171 12.5.2 Groundwater Protection ...... 172 12.6 SOIL QUALITY ...... 173 12.7 AIR QUALITY ...... 173 12.8 NOISE ...... 174 12.9 LIGHT POLLUTION ...... 174 12.10 WASTE MANAGEMENT ...... 174 12.11 CONTROL OF MAJOR ACCIDENT HAZARDS DIRECTIVE (SEVESO II DIRECTIVE) ...... 177

vi 13 NATURAL HERITAGE ...... 182 13.1 INTRODUCTION ...... 182 13.2 BIODIVERSITY ...... 183 13.3 GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE ...... 183 13.4 Invasive Species ...... 183 13.2.2 Designated Sites ...... 184 13.2.3 Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) ...... 184 13.2.4 Special Protection Areas (SPAs) ...... 185 13.2.5 Appropriate Assessment ...... 185 13.2.6 Natural Heritage Area (NHAs) ...... 185 13.2.7 Statutory Nature Reserves ...... 188 13.2.8 Non Designated Sites ...... 188 13.3 WOODLANDS AND TREES ...... 189 13.4 HEDGEROWS...... 189 13.5 WATERWAYS AND WETLANDS ...... 190 13.6 RIPARIAN BUFFER ZONES ...... 190 13.7 NORE FRESHWATER PEARL MUSSEL ...... 191 13.8 PEATLANDS ...... 191 13.8.1 Abbeyleix (Killamuck) Bog ...... 191 13.9 LANDSCAPE ...... 192 13.9.1 LCT 1: HILLS AND UPLAND AREAS ...... 192 13.9.2 LCT 2: LOWLAND AGRICULTURAL AREAS ...... 193 13.9.3 LCT 3: RIVER CORRIDORS AND LAKES ...... 194 13.9.4 LCT 4: MOUNTAIN AREAS ...... 197 13.9.5 LCT 5: PEATLAND AREAS ...... 197 13.9.6 LCT 6: URBAN FRINGE AREAS ...... 198 13.9.7 LCT 7: ROLLING HILL AREAS ...... 199 13.10 AMENITY VIEWS AND PROSPETS ...... 199 13.11 CROSS BORDER SITES ...... 200 13.12 PUBLIC RIGHTS OF WAY 203 13.13 GEOLOGY 204 14 BUILT HERITAGE ...... 213 14.1 INTRODUCTION ...... 213

vii 14.2 CONTEXT ...... 214 14.3 BUILT HERITAGE OBJECTIVES ...... 214 14.4 ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE ...... 214 14.5 PROTECTED STRUCTURES ...... 215 14.5.1 Repairs to Protected Structures ...... 215 14.5.2 Section 57 Declarations on Protected Structures ...... 215 14.5.3 Demolition of a Protected Structure ...... 216 14.6 BUILDINGS AT RISK ...... 216 14.7 TRADITIONAL BUILdINGS ...... 217 14.8 ARCHITECTURAL CONSERVATION AREAS ...... 218 14.9 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE ...... 219 14.9.1 Rock of Dunamaise ...... 223 14.9.2 Zones of Archaeological Potential ...... 223 14.9.3 Industrial Archaeology ...... 224 14.9.4 Groundworks and Zones of Archaeological Potential or Recorded Monuments ...... 224 15 GENERAL LOCATION AND PATTERN OF DEVELOPMENT ...... 233 15.1 INTRODUCTION ...... 233 15.2 ZONING PRINCIPLES...... 233 15.3 ESTABLISHED USE AND NON-CONFORMING USES...... 234 15.4 TRANSITIONAL AREAS ...... 234 15.5 PHASED DEVELOPMENT ...... 234 15.6 ZONING ...... 234 16 DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS ...... 243 16.1 INTRODUCTION ...... 243 16.2 OBJECTIVES ...... 243 16.3 URBAN DESIGN ...... 244 16.4 DESIGN AND GREENFIELD URBAN DEVELOPMENT ...... 246 16.5 DESIGN AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT ...... 246 16.6 PRE-PLANNING CONSULTATION ...... 247

viii LIST OF TABLES

Table 1: The Planning and Development Acts 2000 to 2011, Section 28 Guidelines ...... 4 Table 2: Towns and Settlement Plans ...... 6 Table 3: Population Trends 1991-2006 ...... 9 Table 4: Dependency Ratio in County Laois ...... 10 Table 5: Third Level Participation Rates ...... 11 Table 6: Childcare Facilities in County Laois...... 11 Table 7: Employment Change between 2002 and 2006 ...... 13 Table 8: Delivery of Leisure Facilities in County Laois since 2006...... 18 Table 9 Population Change 2002-2006 ...... 37 Table 10: County Laois Population Projections as per adopted MPRGs 2010 ...... 40 Table 11: Housing Land Requirement 2006-ϮϬϭϴĨŽƌŽƵŶƚǇ>ĂŽŝƐ͙͙͙ ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͘ϰϭ Table 12: Comparison of Areas Zoned 2006- 2012/Proposed Zoning 2011-2017 ...... 42 Table 13 Rural Area Designations ...... 55 Table 14: Planned Leisure Facilities in County Laois 2011-2017 ...... 84 Table 15: Tiered Strategy of Clustering Industrial and Enterprise Development in Laois ...... 94 Table 16: County Retail Hierarchy ...... 96 Table 17 Tourism Assets of the County ...... 111 Table 18: Power Stations Located in Laois ...... 121 Table 19: Strategic Regional Routes in County Laois ...... 141 Table 20: Housing Land Requirement 2006-2018 for County Laois ...... 157 Table 21 Group Water Schemes in LAOIS 2010 ...... 161 Table 22 Proposed Water Supply Schemes 2010-2012 ...... 162 Table 23 Proposed Wastewater Treatment Schemes 2010-2012 ...... 165 Table 24 Special Areas of Conservation in County Laois ...... 185 Table 25 Proposed Natural Heritage Areas (pNHAs) in Co Laois ...... 187 Table 26: Amenity Views and Prospects in County Laois ...... 200 Table 27: County Geological Sites 204 Table 28 National Monuments in State Care in Laois ...... 221 Table 30 Zoning acceptability ...... 233 Table 31: Zoning Objectives and Purposes ...... 236 Table 32 Land use Zoning Matrix...... 241 Table 33: Development Control Standards ...... 248

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1 Persons on Live Register in Laois...... 15 Figure 2 Urban v Rural Population Distribution in Laois ...... 39 Figure 3 Overseas Visitors to Laois, 2008 ...... 108 Figure 4 Number of permanent private households in County Laois by type of Water Supply, 2006 ...... 159 Figure 5 Number of permanent private households in County Laois by type of sewerage facility, 2006 ...... 164 Figure 6 Waste Hierarchy ...... 176 Figure 7 Grand Canal at Vicarstown ...... 195

LIST OF MAPS

Map 1.2.1. Locational Map of Laois ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͘21 Map 1.2.2. Clar ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙22 Map 1.2.3 Broadband Services in County >ĂŽŝƐ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙Ϯϯ

Map 1.3.1 Regional Map ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͘͘58 Map 1.3.2: Urban Centres in County Laois ranked by population size in 2006͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͘36 Map1.3.3: Demographic Change in County Laois, 2002-2006͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͘38 Map 1.3.4: Residential Development Area showing ED's 59 Map 1.3.5. Prefered Development Strategy 60 Map 1.3.6 Rural Settlement Strategy Map ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙ .61

Map 1.7.1 Togher Masterplan ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͘͘ϭϬϲ Map 1.7.2 Retail Sub areas ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͘͘ϭϬϳ

Map 1.8.1: Sustainable Tourism Strategy Map͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙110

Map 1.9.1. Wind Energy Classified areas 2011-2017 ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙ 132 Map 1.9.2 ůĞĐƚƌŝĐŝƚǇ'ƌŝĚ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙ϭϯϯ Map 1.9.3 Gas Network͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͘123 Map 1.9.4: Areas in County Laois to be covered by National Broadband Scheme [NBS ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͘͘128 Map 1.9.5 dĞůĞĐŽŵŵƵŶŝĐĂƚŝŽŶƐ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙ 134

Map 1.10.1 ZŽĂĚĂŶĚZĂŝů͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͘͘ϭϱϰ Map 1.10.2. DŽƚŽƌǁĂǇ/ŶƚĞƌĐŚĂŶŐĞƐ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͘͘ϭϱϱ Map 1.10.3 tĂůŬŝŶŐĂŶĚǇĐůŝŶŐ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͘ϭϱϲ Map 1.10.4 &ůŽŽĚDĂƉ͕͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͘ϭϱϳ

Map 1.12.1 County Acquifer WƌŽƚĞĐƚŝŽŶ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙ 179 Map 1.12.2 ƋƵŝĨĞƌĞĚƌŽĐŬ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͘ϭϴϬ Map 1.12.3 'ƌŽƵŶĚǁĂƚĞƌǀƵůŶĞƌĂďŝůŝƚǇ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙ϭϴϭ. Map 1.12.4 Water Source Protection Zones ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͘ϭϴϮ Map 1.12.4 YƵĂƌƌŝĞƐĂŶĚDŝŶĞƌĂůƐ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͘͘ϭϴϯ. Map 1.12.2: Water Framework Catchment͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͘͘171

Map 1.13.1 ^ƉĞĐŝĂůƌĞĂƐŽĨŽŶƐĞƌǀĂƚŝŽŶ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙ϮϬϴ Map 1.13.2 ^ƉĞĐŝĂůWƌŽƚĞĐƚŝŽŶƌĞĂƐ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͘͘ϮϬϵ Map 1.13.3 EĂƚƵƌĂů,ĞƌŝŽƚĂŐĞƌĞĂƐ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͘͘ϮϭϬ Map 1.13.4 dƌĞĞƐĂŶĚsŝĞǁƐĂŶĚWƌŽƐƉĞĐƚƐ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͘Ϯϭϭ Map 1.13.5 EĂƚƵƌĞƐZĞƐĞƌǀĞƐ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙ϮϭϮ Map 1.13.6 >ĂŶĚƐĐĂƉĞŚĂƌĂĐƚĞƌƐƐĞƐƐŵĞŶƚ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͘͘Ϯϭϯ Map 1.13.7 'ĞŽůŽŐŝĐĂůDĂƉ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͘͘Ϯϭϰ

Map 1.14.1 ĂůůŝŶĂŬŝůůƌĐŚĂĞŽŐŝĐĂů^ŝŐŶŝĨŝĐĂŶƚŽŶĞ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͘ϮϮϵ Map 1.14.2 ĂƐƚůĞƚŽǁŶƌĐŚĂĞŽŐŝĐĂů^ŝŐŶŝĨŝĐĂŶƚŽŶĞ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙ϮϯϬ Map 1.14.3 ZŽĐŬŽĨƵŶĂŵĂŝƐĞƌĐŚĂĞŽŐŝĐĂů^ŝŐŶŝĨŝĐĂŶƚŽŶĞ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙Ϯϯϭ Map 1.14.4 <ŝůůĂďďĂŶƌĐŚĂĞŽŐŝĐĂů^ŝŐŶŝĨŝĐĂŶƚŽŶĞ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͘͘ϮϯϮ Map 1.14.5 WŽƌƚĂƌůŝŶŐƚŽŶƌĐŚĂĞŽŐŝĐĂů^ŝŐŶŝĨŝĐĂŶƚŽŶĞ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͘͘Ϯϯϯ Map 1.14.6 WŽƌƚůĂŽŝƐĞƌĐŚĂĞŽŐŝĐĂů^ŝŐŶŝĨŝĐĂŶƚŽŶĞ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͘͘Ϯϯϰ

x APPENDICES

Appendix 1: Record of Protected Structures Appendix 2: Special Character Appraisals of Architectural Conservation Areas Appendix 3: Housing Strategy 2011-2017 Appendix 4: Retail Strategy 2011-2017 Appendix 5: Wind Energy Strategy 2011-2017 Appendix 6: Landscape Character Assessment 2011-2017 Appendix 7: Rural Design Guidance 2011-2017 Appendix 8 : List of Native Trees

xi Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 INTRODUCTION

The Laois County Development Plan 2011-ϮϬϭϳ ƐĞƚƐ ŽƵƚ >ĂŽŝƐ ŽƵŶƚǇ ŽƵŶĐŝů͛Ɛ ƉŽůŝĐŝĞƐ ĨŽƌ ƚŚĞ ŽǀĞƌĂůů development of the County up to 2017. It has been developed following a period of intensive consultation on issues to be included in the Plan. This was done by way of various public meetings in the five electoral areas, meetings with the Planning agents ʹ architects, engineers and end users of the Plan, meetings with service providers, written submissions and seminars and workshops for the elected members where debate and discussion was facilitated. dŚĞĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚWůĂŶĐŽŶƚĂŝŶƐ>ĂŽŝƐŽƵŶƚǇŽƵŶĐŝů͛ƐƉŽůŝĐŝĞƐĨŽƌĞŶƐƵƌŝŶŐďĂůĂŶĐĞĚĂŶĚƐƵƐƚĂŝŶĂďůĞĞĐŽŶŽŵŝĐ growth, social cohesion and the effective management of sensitive environmental resources, through, both direct action by Laois County Council internal departments and in conjunction with state, private and community sectors and will ensure that development is plan-led.

The Plan has regard to the Midlands Regional Planning Guidelines 2010 enactment of the Planning and Development (Amendment) which requires that development plans must be consistent with Regional Planning Guidelines and the adoption of the Midland RPG.. It also takes account of the Laois County Development ŽĂƌĚ͛Ɛ^ƚƌĂƚĞŐǇʹ ͞ZĞĂůŝƐĞzŽƵƌWŽƚĞŶƚŝĂů͟ĂŶĚĂƌĂŶŐĞŽĨŽƚŚĞƌůŽĐĂůWůĂŶƐ͕ƐƚƌĂƚĞŐŝĞƐĂŶĚƉƌŽŐƌĂŵŵĞƐ͕ including:

x Laois County Council Corporate Plan 2009 x Laois Housing Strategy 2011-2017 x Traveller Accommodation Programme 2009-2013 x Laois Retail Strategy 2011-2017 x The Arts in Laois Development Plan 2006-2011 x County Laois Play Strategy x County Climate Change Strategy 2009-2012 x County Local Agenda 21 Strategy 2009 x Laois Heritage Plan (2007-2011) x Laois Tourism Strategy 2006-2010 x Laois Library Plan

In preparing the new County Development Plan the County Council must have regard to relevant national and regional Plans, policies, strategies, best-practice guidelines and codes of practice which relate to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area. It must also have regard to the Development Plans of adjoining authorities. You should mention the names of adjoining planning authorities The Plan must also take account of the mandatory requirements which are to be included in Development Plans as set out in the Planning and Development Act 2000- 2010, as amended.

1 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

The National Plans, Policies and Guidelines, which were considered included: The National Development Plan 2007-2013 which aims for balanced regional development and has identified Laois as having a strategic role in the Midlands Region.

The National Spatial Strategy which sets out Government policy in relation to achieving balanced regional development and has identified the strategic centrality and prominence of County Laois and indeed Portlaoise town as having strong National Development Potential as a major transport hub and distribution centre, fulfilling the role of inland port.

Sustainable Development: A Strategy for Ireland 1997, which provides a framework for the achievement of sustainability at a local level

ƵŝůĚŝŶŐ /ƌĞůĂŶĚ͛Ɛ ^ŵĂƌƚ ĐŽŶŽŵǇ - A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal 2008, sets out an ambitious set of actions to reorganise the economy over the next five years and to secure the prosperity of current and future generations. It sets out a framework to address the current economic challenges and to ďƵŝůĚĂ͚^ŵĂƌƚĐŽŶŽŵǇ͛ǁŝƚŚĂƚŚƌŝǀŝŶŐĞŶƚĞƌƉƌŝƐĞƐĞĐƚŽƌ͕ŚŝŐŚ-quality employment, secure energy supplies, an attractive environment, and first-class infrastructure.

Transport 21 is a strategy which will see the investment of 34.4 billion euro invested over the next 10 years; it recognizes that a quality integrated transport network is critical for competitiveness, return on investment and regional development.

Smarter Travel ʹ A Sustainable Transport Future ʹ A New Transport Policy for Ireland 2009-2020 sets out actions on how we can reverse current unsustainable transport and travel patterns and reduce the health and environmental impacts of current trends and improve our quality of life.

National Cycle Policy Framework 2009 is a new framework policy designed to encourage a cycling culture.

National Broadband Scheme sets a framework for developing broadband provision through Ireland.

National Climate Change Strategy 2007-2012͕ ƐĞƚƐ Ă ĨƌĂŵĞǁŽƌŬ ĨŽƌ ůŝŵŝƚŝŶŐ /ƌĞůĂŶĚ͛Ɛ ŐƌĞĞŶŚŽƵƐĞ ŐĂƐ emissions to 13% above 1990 levels by the first commitment period 2008-2012 as part of our contribution to the overall EU target.

National Energy Efficiency Action Plan 2009-2020 identifies policies and measures with potential to contribute towards national targets of 20% energy efficiency savings by 2020.

Grid Development Strategy 2007-2025 sets out a strategy for the development of a high capacity Grid Network.

National Heritage Plan 2002 sets out a clear and coherent strategy and framework for protection and ĞŶŚĂŶĐĞŵĞŶƚŽĨ/ƌĞůĂŶĚ͛ƐŚĞƌŝƚĂŐĞ͘

National Biodiversity Plan published in 2002, aims to secure the conservation, including where possible the enhancement and sustainable use of biological diversity in Ireland and to contribute to conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity globally.

Department of Agriculture 2020 Strategy addresses economic development potential of agri-food, forestry, fishing and focuses on agricultural commodities, food and sustainability and innovation.

2 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

The National Anti Poverty Strategy which promotes social inclusion.

Government Policy on Architecture 2009-2015 addresses the contribution good design makes to the quality of life of individuals and society and sets out policies and actions for achieving sustainable architecture.

Spatial Planning and National Road Guidelines 2010 (Draft) sets out new policies in relation to the management of the national road network, the integration of land use and transport decisions and strategies to shift the modal split.

The following guidelines were issued by the Minister under Section 28 of the Planning and Development Act 2000. The Council in its capacity as Planning Authority shall have regard to these guidelines in the performance of its functions (as necessary substitute: shall comply with those guidelines in the performance of its functions). The following table identifies statutory guidelines, their status, asserts compliance with the guidelines and signposts relevant sections of the Development Plan where the guidelines are embedded or referenced. Departmental circulars, codes of practice and other similar documents are not included unless these explicitly constitute Section 28 guidelines.

3 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

Table 1: The Planning and Development Acts 2000 to 2011, Section 28 Guidelines Name and Status of S. 28 Guidelines Signpost Architectural Heritage Protection Guidelines for Planning Architectural Heritage objectives and policies in chapter 14; Record of Protected Structures in appendix 1; Summary Authorities (2004) of Special Character Appraisals for Architectural Conservation Areas in Appendix 2 Architectural Heritage Protection for Places of Public Worship Architectural Heritage objectives and policies in chapter 14 (2003) Sustainable Residential Development in Urban Areas and Urban Built form objectives and policies in chapter 16; Technical Requirements in Development Management companion document Urban Design Manual (2009) Standards Sustainable Urban Housing: Design Standards for New Chapter 16 : Technical Requirements in Development Management Standards Apartments, Guidelines for Planning Authorities (2007) Sustainable Rural Housing Guidelines for Planning Authorities Settlement Plan and Local Need addressed in chapter 3; Vehicular entrances addressed in chapter 16; Design and (2005) landscaping addressed in chapter 16 and Appendix 7:Rural Design Guide Technical requirements regarding water quality in Development Management Standards Childcare Facilities: Guidelines for Planning Authorities (2001) Policies in chapter 5, ensures adequate provision of facilities, but will waive requirement where a audit of vacant places in the local vicinity finds an oversupply Development Management Guidelines for Planning Authorities Policy in chapter 16 (2007) Development Plan Guidelines for Planning Authorities (2007) These provisions of these guidelines underpinned the process of preparing this Development Plan and are embedded in this document Quarries and Ancillary Activities Guidelines for Planning Policy in chapter 7 Authorities (2004) Retail Planning Guidelines (2005) Retail Strategy is contained in Appendix 4 and is also summarised in chapter 8 Assessment of the Effects of Certain Plans and Programmes on These contents of these guidelines underpinned the process of preparing this Development Plan and this is the Environment [Strategic Environmental Appraisal]: Guidelines manifest in the Environment Report contained in Volume 3 of this Plan for Regional and Planning Authorities (2004) The Planning System and Flood Risk Management: Guidelines for Land use policies contained in chapter 10, sustainable urban drainage policy in chapter 11 and wetland Planning Authorities and companion technical appendices (2009) conservation policy in chapter 13. Flood maps informed and are displayed on settlement plans and strategic flood risk assessment in Volume 3 of the Plan Wind Energy Development: Guidelines for Planning Authorities Policy dealing with associated economic development and carbon sequestration in chapters 9 and 13; wind energy (2006) strategy gives spatial expression to guidelines and is contained in Appendix 5 Appropriate Assessment of Plans and Projects in Ireland Guidance Appropriate assessment of Plan carried out. This underpinned the objective and policy preparation process and also for Planning Authorities (2009) the allocation of lands for development. Appropriate assessment report in Volume 3 Landscape and Landscape Assessment Consultation DRAFT of Landscape Character Assessment in appendix 6 and related policy in chapter 13 Guidelines for Planning Authorities (2000) Spatial Planning and National Roads Guidelines DRAFT (2010) Land use and transport integration; protection of strategic transport infrastructure and emphasis on sustainable forms of transport in chapter 10, priority transport infrastructure specified in chapter 10 and specific transport objectives contained in settlement objectives maps

4 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

At a Regional level the main strategies to be considered are: x Midland Regional Planning Guidelines 2010 - 2022 x Midlands Waste Management Plan 2005 - 2010 x Shannon River Basin Management Plan 2009-2015 x South East River Basin Management Plan 2009-2015

1.2 STRUCTURE OF THE PLAN

The Plan consists of a written statement, accompanying maps and includes policies, strategies and objectives for the County at large and for specific settlements. The Plan pertains to the administrative area of County Laois and is presented in two sections. Volume 1 contains the written statement which is set out as follows. Section 1 of the County Development Plan 2011-2017 sets out the current trends and identifies the emerging issues to be dealt with in the new Plan. Section 2 of the Plan introduces the Vision for the County and the Core Development Strategy to be put in place to achieve this vision. It develops the Core Development Strategy through the following sections x Housing Strategy x Social Infrastructure x Recreation and Amenities x Economic Development x Tourism x Energy and Telecommunications x Transport x Water Services x Environmental Management x Natural Heritage x Built Heritage x General location and pattern of development x Requirements for new developments

All sections should be read in conjunction with Development Control Standards. The following Appendices are attached to Volume 1 Appendix 1: Record of Protected Structures Appendix 2: Special Character Appraisals of Architectural Conservation Areas Appendix 3: Housing Strategy 2011-2017 Appendix 4: Retail Strategy 2011-2017 Appendix 5: Wind Energy Strategy 2011-2017 Appendix 6: Landscape Character Assessment 2011-2017 Appendix 7: Rural Design Guidance 2011-2017 Appendix 8: List of Native Trees

Volume 2 contains the settlement strategy for the County and contains zoning and settlement Plans for the towns in Table 2.

5 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

Table 2: Towns and Settlement Plans

Settlement Hierarchy within County Laois 2011-2017 Principal Town Portlaoise and Environs Local Area Plan 2006-2012 Key Service Town Portarlington and Environs Local Area Plan 2007-2013 Service Town Abbeyleix Mountrath Stradbally Mountmellick Local Area Plan 2007-2013 Graiguecullen Local Area Plan 2007-2013 Local Service Towns Durrow Rathdowney Rural Towns and Villages Ballacolla Emo Ballinakill Errill Ballybrittas Killenard Ballylynan Killeen Ballyroan Killeshin Borris In Ossory Newtown Doonane Camross Rosenallis Castletown Shanahoe Clonaslee The Swan Clough Timahoe Coolrain Vicarstown Cullahill 1.2.1 Rural Settlements Ballaghmore Luggacurren Ballickmoyler Raheen Ballintubbert Raheenaniska Ballyadams Pike of Rush hall Ballybrophy Spink Crettyard Wolfhill Donaghmore Fisherstown The Heath The Rock

Volume 3 Includes: x Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) ʹ SEA Statement x Appropriate Assessment (AA) x Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (SFRA)

6 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

1.3 STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

A Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) is a formal systematic evaluation of the likely significant effects of a proposed Plan or programme on the environment. It is being carried out in parallel to the preparation of the County Development Plan in accordance with the Planning and Development (Strategic Environmental Assessment) Regulations 2004 (SI No. 436 of 2004). The environmental issues which are considered during this process are as follows x Biodiversity (flora and fauna) x Landscape (geology) x Agriculture and Forestry, Soils x Population x Water Quality x Air Quality x Waste management x Material and Cultural assets x Climate

The evaluation of the likely environmental consequences of alternative strategies for the accommodation of the future development of County Laois is also part of the SEA Process.

1.4 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT

An Appropriate Assessment is an assessment of the potential effects of a proposed plan on its own or a combination with other plans or projects on one or more Natura 2000 sites (Special Protection Areas (SPA) for birds, Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) for habitats and species, Ramsar wetland sites). The findings of the assessment must be taken into account by the competent authority, Laois County Council, in reaching its decision to adopt the County Development Plan 2011-2017. The Appropriate Assessment of the Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017 is contained in Volume 3: SEA.

1.5 STRATEGIC FLOOD RISK ASSESSMENT

Under the ͞WůĂŶŶŝŶŐ^ǇƐƚĞŵĂŶĚ&ůŽŽĚZŝƐŬDĂŶĂŐĞŵĞŶƚ'ƵŝĚĞůŝŶĞƐ͟ published in 2009, the purpose of the Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (SFRA) is ͞ƚŽƉƌŽǀŝĚĞĂďƌŽĂĚ;ĂƌĞĂǁŝĚĞͿĂƐƐĞƐƐŵĞŶƚŽĨĂůůƚǇƉĞƐŽĨĨůŽŽĚ ƌŝƐŬ ƚŽ ŝŶĨŽƌŵ ƐƚƌĂƚĞŐŝĐ ůĂŶĚ ƵƐĞ ƉůĂŶŶŝŶŐ ĚĞĐŝƐŝŽŶƐ͘ ^&Z͛Ɛ ĞŶĂďůĞ ƚŚĞ ůŽĐĂů ĂƵƚŚŽƌŝƚǇ ƚŽ ƵŶĚĞƌƚĂŬĞ ƚŚĞ sequential approach, including the justification test, allocate appropriate sites for development and identify ŚŽǁĨůŽŽĚƌŝƐŬĐĂŶďĞƌĞĚƵĐĞĚĂƐƉĂƌƚŽĨƚŚĞŽƵŶƚǇĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚWůĂŶƉƌŽĐĞƐƐ͟. The context of flood risk in Laois will be considered with specific reference to people property, infrastructure and the environment at risk of flooding. This will be discussed in the context of a range of sources of flooding including fluvial, pluvial, groundwater, sewer and artificial reservoirs and canals. In accordance with the Planning System and Flood Risk Management Guidelines 2009, a two stage assessment of flood risk was undertaken for settlements zoned for development within the County Development Plan 2011-2017. The Strategic Flood Risk Assessment of the Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017 is contained in Volume 3: SEA.

1.6 LOCAL AREA PLANNING

Where appropriate the policies of the County Development Plan 2011-2017 will be developed in more detail at a local level through the preparation of Local Area Plans and Framework Plans, urban design strategies, Masterplans and design briefs. Proposals are put forward in the Plan identifying some strategic opportunity areas of the County, which would benefit from such an approach. These areas are selected based on their need for regeneration, renewal or pressure for development. Local Area Planning will be set within the context of the County Development Plan and will involve extensive local consultation.

7 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

Local Area Plans are mandatory in certain circumstances as indicated in Section 12 of the Local Government (Planning and Development) Act 2000- 2010 which states that the mandatory threshold for preparing local ĂƌĞĂƉůĂŶƐ;>W͛^ͿŝƐϱ͕ϬϬϬƉĞƌƐŽŶƐ͘EŽƚǁŝƚŚƐƚĂŶĚŝŶŐĂůŽĐĂůĂƵƚŚŽƌŝƚǇǁŝůůŚĂǀĞƚŽƉƌŽǀŝĚĞĂƐƚĂƚƵƚŽƌǇƉůĂŶ for towns and villages of population between 1500 and 5000 but has the flexibility to decide whether to provide such a statutory planning framework within the County Development Plan or a specific local area plan level.

Portlaoise, Portarlington and Mountmellick fall within the parameters of this requirement and so it is an objective of the Planning Authority that these towns have Local Area Plans. Graiguecullen (Carlow Environs) whilst falling beneath the population threshold for the requirement of the Act shall be the subject of a Local Area Plan owing to the shared nature of the urban area with Carlow Town Council and Carlow County Council. It is an objective to carry out a joint Local Area Plan for both Portarlington and Graiguecullen in association with Offaly Local Authorities and Carlow Local Authorities respectively during the period of the Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017.

1.7 FINANCIAL RESOURCES

Laois County Council will strive to secure the financial resources necessary to implement the policies and objectives of the Plan that fall within its remit.

8 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

2 CURRENT TRENDS AND ISSUES

2.1 NATIONAL AND REGIONAL CONTEXT

Laois is an inland County in the south midlands of Ireland covering an area of 171,990 hectares, which equates to 2.4% of the national landmass. Occupying a strategic position near the centre of the country, County Laois is land locked and shares borders with five adjoining counties ʹ Carlow, Kildare, Kilkenny, Offaly and Tipperary. Administratively, it is part of the four County Midland Region along with Counties Offaly, Westmeath and Longford. In terms of travel patterns Laois is under the influence of the Greater Dublin Area (GDA). At its nearest, County Laois is approx 70 km from the Dublin metropolitan area. This relative proximity to the capital has had a major effect on both the nature and extent of development and the associated traffic movements, particularly in the northern and eastern parts of the County. The travel time between Laois and Dublin continues to decrease as a consequence of improved road and rail infrastructure between the two places.

In physical terms, the landmass of County Laois consists of a central plain containing most of the productive agricultural land, surrounded by a number of upland areas including the Slieve Bloom Mountains in the northwest, Killeshin Plateau in the South East and Cullahill Mountain in the south. Though not as extensive as in Counties Offaly and Kildare, there are significant cutaway peatlands in the County mainly situated between Portlaoise, Mountrath and Abbeyleix.

Approximately 0.01% of County Laois is covered by water. The principal rivers are the Barrow, Nore and Erkina which flow in a north west - south east trajectory and there are minor man-made lakes at Ballyfin, Granstown, and Heywood. The Grand Canal passes through the north east of the County and links to the wider Barrow Navigation system. All of these watercourses offer much potential by way of natural and cultural heritage, tourism, leisure and recreational pursuits.

2.2 KEY DEMOGRAPHIC AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC TRENDS

The population of County Laois grew rapidly during the most recent inter-censal period. The trend for the 2002-2006 period (see Table 3) reveals that the population growth rate in County Laois (14 per cent) exceeded by almost 30% that for the Midland Region (11.6per cent) and by almost 60% that for the State as a whole (8.2 per cent).

Table 3: Population Trends 1991-2006

Area 1991 1996 2002 2006 Portlaoise 8,360 9,474 12,127 14,613 Laois 52,314 52,945 58,774 67,059 Midlands Region 202,984 205,542 225,363 251,664 Ireland 3,525,719 3,626,087 3,917,203 4,239,848

County Laois also falls under the influence of the greater Dublin commuter belt. Improved inter-connecting road and rail links and the high cost of housing in the capital and the immediately surrounding counties of Meath and Kildare has contributed to the growth patterns in the County.

This phenomenon has been responsible for a significant proportion of the population increase which has taken place in Portarlington, Portlaoise, Mountmellick, Ballylynan and Graiguecullen and in the rural

9 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017 hinterlands of these towns. The County has experienced in-migration by foreign nationals many of whom secured employment in the construction and service sectors.

2.3 DEPENDENCY

The dependency ratio is a figure used to describe the proportion of the population that is available for work and those who are not. The dependency ratio is derived by expressing the young (aged 0 to 14 years) population and old (aged 65 years and over) population as a proportion of the population of working age (15 to 64 years). The ratio, which is expressed as a percentage, is important because as it increases, there is increased requirement on the working population to support the upbringing, pensions and care of the economically dependent population.

Table 4 below outlines the dependency ratios for Laois and Ireland. Laois has a higher than average dependency ratio (50%) when compared to the national figure (46%). This means that in Laois, for every two persons of working age, there is a dependent.

Table 4: Dependency Ratio in County Laois

Geographic Region Persons Persons Dependency Ratio aged 0-14 & 65+ aged 15-64 Laois 22,251 44,808 50 Ireland 1,332,375 2,907,473 46 Source: CSO Census 2006 Principal Demographic Results, 2007

2.4 EDUCATION

There are 67 primary schools in County Laois. with a total enrolment of 9,221 pupils. There are 9 Secondary Schools in the County and a further 13 in the adjoining counties of Tipperary, Offaly, Kildare, Kilkenny and Carlow attended by pupils from County Laois. Total second level enrolment is 10,220 pupils. Adult education is provided at six centres in the County.

While the adequacy of school infrastructure throughout the County is highlighted as a major concern in this County Development Plan, there has been significant progress in this regard since 2006. For example, a new national school with an enrolment of 482 pupils has opened in Portarlington, and large extensions/ new schools have been approved/developed at Ballyfin, Ballylynan, Emo, Killenard, Killeshin, Paddock, Raheen and Ratheniska national schools.

Rationalisation has occurred at second level in Mountrath through the amalgamation of two schools in the town with Patrician College, Ballyfin while the new secondary school in Portlaoise will replace two existing facilities in the County town.

Apart from the standard school-going age cohorts, Laois County Council recognises the need for and benefit of providing lifelong learning opportunities for all its residents including those from deprived and marginalised sections of the community many of whom are early school leavers with few if any qualifications. A Youthreach facility with capacity for 50 pupils is located in Mountmellick. [Portlaoise Community Action Project).

There are no conventional third level education centres in County Laois. This is a serious shortcoming in the context of the ever changing technological environment in which modern global business operates and which places a major premium on the availability of a young, dynamic, highly skilled and computer literate

10 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017 labour force. It is also a factor in the under-representation of County Laois in national and provincial Third Level participation rates, as indicated in Table 5.

Table 5: Third Level Participation Rates

Locus Total aged 3rd level 3rd level Total 3rd level 15 years non-degree degree 3rd Level participation rate & over or higher Laois 45,118 3,251 3,659 6,910 15.3%

Leinster 1,664,380 138,419 241,691 380,110 22.8%

Ireland 3,089,775 250,429 396,408 646,837 20.9%

Source: CSO, Ireland

In relation to childcare, Laois County Childcare Committee carried out an audit of childcare facilities in 2009. According to the audit, there are a total of 77 no. facilities in the County of which 24 no. are found in Portlaoise. The facilities are a combination of full ʹday crèches, playschools and a small number of stand alone after school programmes.

The actual childcare places provided in the County is summarised in Table 6. In total there are 1,536 sessional, 498 after school and 745 full ʹ day care places. The number of vacant spaces, at approx. a third of the total, is quite high. This is linked to the effects of the recession as well as one of the key recommendations of the national guidelines ʹnamely that a childcare facility is provided for residential schemes of 75 units or over.

Table 6: Childcare Facilities in County Laois

October 2009 Sessional Places School Age Places Full ʹDay Care Places

Available Filled Places Available Filled Places Available Filled Places Places Places Vacant Places Places Vacant Places Places Vacant

Portlaoise DED 466 234 216 181 112 79 319 204 140

Borris-in-Ossory DED 373 211 161 42 17 25 90 53 37

Mountmellick DED 174 135 45 48 36 12 54 47 5

Emo DED 325 234 91 78 67 11 191 150 41

Luggacurren DED 198 153 50 149 123 26 91 67 29

Total 1,536 967 563 498 355 153 745 521 252

Source Laois County Childcare Committee, 2009

While Laois County Council is not a direct service provider of childcare facilities, it does play a major role in their Planning and delivery through both development management procedures and forward Planning in

11 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017 the context of the DoEHLG Childcare Facility Guidelines for Planning Authorities (2001). It also works in close co-operation with Laois County Childcare Committee.

2.5 POVERTY AND SOCIAL INCLUSION

Poverty and social exclusion are multi faceted and are the end product of a combination of deprivations that undermine the well being of individuals, families, social groups and communities. Despite the extensive provision in recent years of physical and social infrastructure services throughout County Laois, certain groups and individuals tend to remain isolated and face barriers in accessing the same opportunities as others.

A good overall measure of the extent of social disadvantage in County Laois is gauged by the level of CLAR1 coverage in the County. The CLAR programme is active in 39 DEDs across County Laois, over 50% of the County as indicated on Map 1.2.2.

2.6 CRIME

Dealing effectively with social disadvantage is also important in assisting crime prevention as there is a well established link between the two. Overall crime figures for County Laois in 2009 show a reduction of 12.5%(Abbeyleix Garda District recorded a decrease of 18% and Portlaoise Garda District recorded a decrease of 11%) compared to 2008 though there were some increases in some sub categories such as robbery and theft. In dealing with the issues pertaining to crime, the Planning Authority can assist in ensuring the design of safe and secure places which are well supervised with passive surveillance and working with communities in ensuring that their social needs are planned for. Joint Policing Committees were established for the Laois Country Council area, Portlaoise Town Council area and Mountmellick Town Council Area in 2008. These provide a forum where the local authority and senior Garda officers responsible for policing the County with the participation of Oireachtas members and community interests can consult, discuss and make recommendations on matters affecting the policing of County Laois.

2.7 ECONOMIC PROFILE

In the decade up to 2006, the socio economic profile of County Laois underwent fundamental changes in line, to a greater or lesser extent, with national and regional trends though there is notable divergence apparent for two sectors in particular: Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing and Construction.

In general terms, as illustrated in Table 7, the main primary and secondary activities of agriculture and manufacturing declined with a concurrent increase in the services and especially in the construction sectors.

1CLAR , launched in 2001, is a targeted investment programme in rural areas which complements both the RAPID programme for disadvantaged urban areas and RAPID 11, the programme for provincial towns. It supports physical, economic and social infrastructure in rural areas of special disadvantage across a variety of measures such as electricity conversion, roads, water and sewerage , village, housing and schools enhancement , health and community projects.

12 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

Table 7: Employment Change between 2002 and 2006

Sector 1996 % of L.F. 2002 % of 2006 % of L.F. L. F.

Laois Agriculture Forestry& Fishing 3,527 19.46% 2,604 11% 2,293 7.6%

Manufacturing 2,994 16.5% 3,311 14% 3,339 11%

Services 8,380 46% 13,608 57% 17,839 59%

Construction 1,132 7% 2,628 11% 4,351 14.4%

Leinster Agriculture Forestry& Fishing 41,372 5.8% 31,795 3.5% 29,655 2.75%

Manufacturing 126,503 17.7% 119,889 13% 116,993 10.9%

Services 404,172 56.5% 614,942 67% 736,141 68%

Construction 45,499 6.4% 77,271 8.4% 108,142 10%

Ireland Agriculture Forestry& Fishing 133,969 10.2% 97,281 5.9% 89,277 4.6%

Manufacturing 249,131 19% 244,203 15% 243,182 12.6%

Services 669,907 51% 1,031,283 62.8% 1,161,184 60%

Construction 87,452 6.7% 149,271 9% 215,184 11%

Note: LF = Labour Force Source: CSO, Ireland 2006

2.7.1 Agri- Forestry And Fisheries

Even though at County level it has substantially contracted over the last decade, a relatively high proportion of the County Laois workforce is still involved in agricultural and related activities. In 1996, almost 20% [3,527] of the labour force in County Laois was engaged in the Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing sector. By 2002 this had reduced to almost 11% [2,604] and it fell again to 7.6% [2,293] by 2006 representing an overall fall-off of more than 50% in the ten year period. Nonetheless, the employment rate in this sector in County Laois is still far in excess of the provincial [2.75%] and national [4.6%] rates.

The average size of farms in Laois is 35.3 ha.

2.7.2 Manufacturing

Manufacturing employment as a proportion of the labour force has also declined. From 16.5% in 1996, it fell to 14% in 2002 and to 11% in 2006. While the rate of decline is not as marked as in Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing, there is increasing concern at the on-going erosion of the traditional manufacturing base in County Laois with large scale job losses occurring in steel [Portarlington], meat processing [Rathdowney] and textiles [Portlaoise, Portarlington and Mountmellick]. Many of those affected would initially have transferred to the Construction sector but there has been a massive loss of jobs in this sector as well since 2008.

13 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

2.7.3 Services

Employment in the overall services sector [comprising of Education, Transport, Retail, Wholesale, Health services, etc] rose from 46% in 1996 to 57% in 2002 and 59% in 2006. The principal town of Portlaoise is the predominant location for this sector with the offices of the Dept. of Agriculture, Prison Service, local government and health care offices providing significant employment.

2.7.4 Construction

Up to 2006, the best performing employment sector had been construction. The numbers employed in this sector went from 7% in 1996 to over 14% in 2006 reflecting the full impact of the Celtic Tiger building boom in County Laois. Since then however this sector has virtually collapsed resulting in significantly increased live register numbers.

2.7.5 Tourism

At a County level, tourism in County Laois is relatively undeveloped by comparison with the other midland and eastern counties and the main destinations in Dublin, the west and the south west. This is due to a number of factors namely a perceived limited range of built heritage attractions, a low base of hotel and other registered accommodation, the absence of a tourism tradition and the lack of an extensive base of professional tourism providers. To address the deficit, Laois Tourism Ltd prepared a 5 year Plan 2006-2010 which sets out a strategy to develop tourism in the County.

2.7.6 Enterprise and Employment Creation

Enterprise and employment creation in County Laois is assisted by a number of agencies including IDA Ireland, Laois County Council, Laois County Enterprise Board, FAS, Enterprise Ireland, Laois Partnership, and Laois Chamber of Commerce.

There are four IDA backed overseas companies in County Laois ʹ Ebm- Papst Ireland Ltd , DIS Enbi Seals, ICM Unicomp, Standex International . These four firms employ approx 126 people. In addition the IDA has developed a modern business park on a 27 ha site in Portlaoise.

Laois County Council has also been proactive in job creation and has established two enterprise units in Portlaoise and Portarlington in conjunction with other stakeholders which now employ approx. 50 people. Companies such as TS Flowmeters Ltd, Automated Control Systems, Greenbay Facilities Ltd, Creative Training Ltd, and Advanced Renewable Energy Ireland Ltd occupy the Portlaoise Centre.

2.7.7 Unemployment Rate

As a consequence of the severe downturn in the economy, the unemployment rate has risen dramatically in County Laois. From 4.8% in Quarter 4 of 2007, it has trebled to 14.4% in Quarter 4 of 2009. The live register statistics are equally negative as Figure 1 indicates.

14 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

9000

8000

7000

6000 County Laois 5000 Portlaoise 4000 Portarlington 3000 Rathdowney 2000

1000

0 Jan-07 Jan-08 Jan-09 Jan-10

Source: CSO 2007 Figure 1 Persons on Live Register in Laois

2.8 PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT TRENDS

2.8.1 Transport

The opening of the completed M8 (Dublin ʹ Cork) Motorway in June 2010 and M7 (Dublin ʹ Limerick) Motorway are significant national road improvements that will benefit the County. dŚĞĐŽƵŶƚƌǇ͛ƐŵŽƐƚƐŝŐŶŝĨŝĐĂŶƚƐĞĐƚŝŽŶŽĨnational route network traversing County Laois is the National Route N80 (RosslareʹCarlow-AthloneʹCastlebar). Other significant elements are the N78 (Athy- Castlecomer) and N77 (Portlaoise ʹ Abbeyleix ʹ Durrow).

Apart from the advancement of the M7/M8 schemes and the works to the N80 at Clonreher, Portlaoise other road infrastructural schemes that were brought to fruition in the lifetime of the current County Development Plan include: x R420 Realignment at Hope's Bridge, Kilmullen; x Portlaoise Western Circular Clonrooske Link; x Portlaoise Western Circular Clonminam Link; x Togher Link Road Phase 1; x Ballacolla Traffic Calming; x Ballylynan Traffic Calming; x Rathdowney Traffic Improvement Phase 1; x Emo Traffic Calming scheme; x Killenard Traffic management and Traffic Calming; x Mountrath Traffic Calming x Crossneen Road Improvements, Graiguecullen

15 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

2.8.2 Public Transport

County Laois is well served by a number of mainline and commuter train services. Mainline infrastructure consists of the following main rail lines: x Dublin - Cork x Dublin ʹ Limerick x Dublin ʹ Galway

There are three rail stations at Portarlington, Portlaoise & Ballybrophy within County Laois. These stations provide services which allow for good rail connection with the whole of the country. Equally there are national and local bus routes serving the County.

2.8.3 Wastewater

Portlaoise Sewerage Scheme The contracts for this waste water treatment plant and sewerage network with a capacity of 39,000PE have been completed.

Portarlington Sewerage Scheme (Waste Water Treatment Plant) Construction is complete on the 5,000PE temporary upgrade to the Portarlington Waste Water Treatment Plant

Laois Grouped Towns Sewerage Scheme (Durrow, Rathdowney, Abbeyleix, Stradbally, Mountrath & Clonaslee) Clonaslee Waste Water Treatment Plant was unbundled from the group and approved in principle to proceed to the procurement construction stage. Contract documents for the treatment plants for the five towns and sewerage collection systems for the six towns will be re-submitted in 2011.

Laois Grouped Villages Sewerage Scheme It is included in the Water Services Investment Programme 2010-2012.

Mountmellick Sewerage Scheme Construction of Phase 1 was completed in 2010. An Appropriate Assessment and Environmental Impact Statement for Phase 2 to upgrade the wastewater system were submitted to An Bord Pleanála for approval in June 2010.

Portarlington/Emo/Ballybrittas/Killenard Sewerage Scheme An appropriate Assessment and Environmental Impact Statement to upgrade the waste water system were submitted to An Bord Pleanála in June, 2010.

2.8.4 Water

Portarlington Water Supply Scheme An advanced contract was commenced in September, 2010. The main scheme is at planning stage and contract documents will be resubmitted to the D.E.H.L.G. for approval in 2011.

Portlaoise & Mountmellick Water Supply Scheme The scheme is at planning stage and contract documents will be submitted to the D.E.H.L.G. in 2011.

Graiguecullen Water Supply Scheme The construction of a new scheme independent of Carlow is scheduled to be tendered in September, 2010.

16 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

Durrow Water Supply Scheme The scheme is being monitored for quality issues.

2.8.5 Rural Water Programme dŚĞŽƵŶĐŝů͛ƐZƵƌĂůtĂƚĞƌWƌŽŐƌĂŵŵĞĐŽŵƉƌŝƐĞƐŽĨƚŚĞĨŽůůŽǁŝŶŐŵĞĂƐƵƌĞƐ͗ x Group Water Schemes x Small Public Water and Sewerage Schemes x Grants for Individual Well Installations

There are currently 62 operational Group Water Schemes in Laois.

Small Water & Sewerage Schemes Funding is provided for capital projects for the provision of upgrading of small water and sewerage schemes that complement existing rural water measures.

2.8.6 Energy

The bulk of wind energy activity so far has been in upland areas in the southeast of the County near the County boundaries with Carlow and Kilkenny. This wind farm provides for a total of 8 no. 80 metres high turbines with a projected output of 21 MW. Construction of this wind farm has been completed.

2.8.7 Environment

The key waste facility in County Laois is the EPA licensed landfill site at Kyltalesha, north of Portlaoise which receives municipal and construction and demolition waste. Recycling is a key component of the strategy for a sustainable approach to waste management in County Laois. There are two public civic amenity sites [Portlaoise and Portarlington] and 44 bring bank centres throughout the County.

2.8.8 Social Infrastructure

Laois County Council has made a major commitment to this sector with funding coming from a number of internal and external sources including development contributions, the FAI and the Dept. of Tourism, Culture and Sport. The Council is committed to the findings of the County Laois Play Strategy 2004-2008 which is aimed at expanding this sector through consultation with children, parents, Laois Sports Partnership, other agencies, voluntary and community groups in line with the objectives of the National Play Policy 2004.

Since 2006 there has been significant delivery of facilities in both large urban centres and rural villages, summarised in Table 8:

17 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

Table 8: Delivery of Leisure Facilities in County Laois since 2006

Location Type of facilities provided since 2006

Portlaoise Leisure Centre Swimming Pools, Gym & Exercise Studio, Grass Pitch & Astro Floodlit Pitch, Meeting Rooms & Walking Track

Portarlington Leisure Centre Swimming Pools, Gym & Exercise Studio/ Meeting Room

Portlaoise Athletic Track 8 Lane Cinders Athletic Track & Soccer Pitch

The Swan Mini Pitch Multi ʹUse Games Area

Portlaoise Leisure Centre Playground Playground for 0-12 years

Abbeyleix Playground Playground for 0-12 years

Mountrath Playground Playground for 0-12 years

Killeen Playground Playground for 0-12 years

Stradbally Playground Playground for 0-12 years

Durrow Playground Playground for 0-12 years

Clonaslee Playground Playground for 0-12 years

Mountmellick MUGA Multi ʹ Use Games Area

Mountmellick Playground Playground for 0-12 years

Kiln Lane Playground Playground for 0-12 years

Camross Youth Café Playground for 0-12 years

Upgrade of Slieve Bloom Walking Routes Walking Routes

Portlaoise & Stradbally Slí na Sláinte Walking Routes

Slí na Sláinte Graiguecullen (with Carlow Co Walking Routes Co)

Upgrade Slieve Bloom Amenity Areas Amenity Areas ʹ Catholes, Capard, Bawnreagh, The Cut, Lacca

Doonane Recreational Area (Pitch & Park) Recreational Area

Portlaoise Link Walk with outdoor exercise Walking Route equipment

The library service of Laois County Council plays an increasingly important educational, community, information and outreach role in the County. It has also become an important venue for cultural activities. Many urban centres in the County have had the redevelopment of existing library facilities or the provision of new facilities in recent years, e.g. Mountrath, Ballylinan, Durrow, Abbeyleix and Mountmellick. Work has commenced on the Stradbally Courthouse renovation and Part VIII approval has been given for a new library facility in Portarlington.

18 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

Laois County Council has a statutory responsibility to provide for burial facilities. This power was transferred to all Local Authorities in the interests of public health and to regulate the development of new burial grounds. The Council operates twenty seven cemeteries throughout the County

2.8.9 Broadband

To date the bulk of broadband activity has occurred in Portlaoise where 19kms of network has become operational. As a result, all bandwidth requirements can be satisfied and the vast majority of businesses in the County town now have the option of accessing high speed broadband services delivered on fibre network. This is seen as a necessary prerequisite for medium to large business enterprises wishing to set up or expand in the County. Outside of Portlaoise and the other main urban centres, broadband provision is much more sporadic.

2.9 KEY ISSUES TO ADDRESS IN THIS PLAN

In summary the following are the key issues that will be addressed in this Plan for the period 2011-2017.

Settlement: x Support urban hierarchy as identified in the Regional Planning Guidelines; x Counteract population in decline; x Divergence of population growth; x Land use and transport integration;

Infrastructure: x Investment in strategic national and regional roads Infrastructure within the County; x Safeguard investment in the national road network; x Maintain capacity and safety of national road network; x Delivery of a modern, efficient and dependable passenger and also freight public transport network; x Delivery of sustainable strategic walking and cycling routes and associated facilities; x Provision of adequate Wastewater Treatment Infrastructure having regard to the settlement strategy; x Provision of a secure potable water supply; x Improvement in Water Quality and Implementation of the Water Framework Directive; x A secure supply of electricity; x Good telecommunications network; x Provision of additional sporting and recreational facilities in towns and villages to improve the quality of life and health of residents; x Provide social infrastructure in an efficient manner to a dispersed population , including healthcare facilities, sheltered accommodation and cost effective support services to vulnerable groups of people; x Facilitate greater participation in education at all levels to increase the skillset of the resident population

19 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

Enterprise and Employment: x Creation of new employment opportunities and renewed focus on town centre and village centre economic development; x Responding to and facilitation of environmental sustainability measures ; x Diversify the economic base to avoid over-concentration of employment in one sector; x Reskilling of workforce particularly those previously engaged in agriculture , manufacturing and construction; x Diversification of rural enterprise and the development of alternative enterprises such as mineral extraction, afforestation, alternative energy, local food production and tourism;

Environmental management: x A holistic approach is adopted in terms of landscape so that visual amenity, biodiversity, habitat protection, water quality and tourism promotion are each afforded due consideration.

20 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

Map 1.2.1: County Laois in Regional and National Context

21 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

22 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

23 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

3 DEVELOPMENT PLAN STRATEGY

CORE AIM To provide for the sustainable growth of County Laois towards a target population of up to 77,059 by 2018 distributed in line with the settlement strategy as indicated in the midland regional planning guidelines focusing the bulk of growth in the principal town of Portlaoise, measured growth in the service towns, local service towns and villages of population not exceeding 800 and the consolidation of the key service town of Portarlington whilst maintaining the viability of rural communities in the hinterlands of these towns and villages.

3.1 INTRODUCTION

The Development Plan Core Strategy (known as the Strategy hereafter) sets out how the development objectives in the development plan are consistent with the National Spatial Strategy and the Regional Planning Guidelines. In preparing the development plan, the Planning Authority has taken into account: x The strategic aims of the National Spatial Strategy 2002-2020; x The strategic aims and strategies of the Midland Regional Planning Guidelines 2010; x The regional population targets set out by the Minister for the Environment Heritage and Local Government in the Regional Planning Guidelines Review, Gateway and Hub Population targets, August 2009. x The issues that have been identified in the previous chapter.

The role of the development plan is to outline the policy framework that will be used to address these issues

3.2 THE VISION dŚĞ >ĂŽŝƐ ŽƵŶƚǇ ĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚ ŽĂƌĚ ^ƚƌĂƚĞŐǇ ͞ZĞĂůŝƐĞ ŽƵƌ WŽƚĞŶƚŝĂů͟ ĂŶĚ ƚŚĞ >ĂŽŝƐ ŽƵŶƚǇ ŽƵŶĐŝů Corporate Plan share the same vision statement. The Development Plan aims are aligned with this vision and its strategies, objectives and policies will serve to realize this vision.

The overall vision is that -

͞ŽƵŶƚǇ>ĂŽŝƐǁŝůůďĞĂĐŽŚĞƐŝǀĞĂŶĚƐƵƐƚĂŝŶĂďůĞĐŽŵŵƵŶŝƚǇŽĨƉĞŽƉůĞĞŶũŽǇŝŶŐĚŝƐƚŝŶĐƚďƵƚŝŶƚĞƌƌĞůĂƚĞĚ urban and rural environments, with a robust and diverse local economy and good quality infrastructure, where the natural environment is protected and where possible enhanced, cultural and built heritage is safeguarded, where opportunities for existing residents and future generations abound to live, work, visit ĂŶĚĞŶũŽǇƐĂĨĞůǇĂŶĚĂƐĞƋƵĂůƐ͕ǁŝƚŚŽƵƚĐŽŵƉƌŽŵŝƐŝŶŐƚŚĞĞŶǀŝƌŽŶŵĞŶƚĂůŝŶƚĞŐƌŝƚǇŽĨŽƵƌŽƵŶƚǇ͘͟

In essence the vision for the future of County Laois involves the creation of compact, liveable urban and rural settlements, in a green and accessible County, which offers affordable homes, healthcare, educational, cultural and recreational facilities set in a high-quality natural environment where heritage is protected and enhanced.

The Core Strategy of this Development Plan, which is required to be consistent with both the National Spatial Strategy and the Midland Regional Planning Guidelines, seeks to realise the vision for County Laois

24 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017 by addressing the key issues identified under the sub-headings of settlement, infrastructure and enterprise and employment in Chapter 2.

The Core Strategy is supported by strategic economic development policies (included in Chapter 7), the Retail Strategy (Appendix 4), the Housing Strategy (Chapter 4 and Appendix 3), rural housing policies (Chapter 3.2410) and the strategic policies relating to transport and mobility (Chapter 10).

3.2.1 Core Strategy Summary

The Planning and Development (Amendment) Act 2010 amends Section 10 of the Principal Act by introducing the requirement of a ͞ĐŽƌĞ ƐƚƌĂƚĞŐǇ ƚŚĂƚ ƐŚĂůů ƐŚŽǁ ƚŚĂƚ ƚŚĞ ĚĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚ ŽďũĞĐƚŝǀĞƐ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ development plan are consistent, as far as practicable, with national and regional development objectives set out in the National Spatial Strategy and ƌĞŐŝŽŶĂůƉůĂŶŶŝŶŐŐƵŝĚĞůŝŶĞƐ͘͟

The Core Strategy of this Development Plan provides relevant information to demonstrate consistency with both the NSS and MRPGs and sets out Core Aims that, in turn, define and shape: x Preferred growth locations x Population distribution and x Land use zoning

3.2.2 Core Aims

The purpose of the County Development Plan is to enhance the quality of life for the current and future population of Laois and manage the County in the interests of the common good. This will be achieved by providing for good quality housing, economic opportunities, physical and social infrastructure while protecting our natural and cultural heritage and the environmental quality of the County in accordance with the strategy outlined below. The following are the aims of the planning authority in delivering the vision for the County during the period 2011-2017:

x Provide for the sustainable growth of County Laois towards a target population of up to 77,059 by 2018, this to be structured in a balanced manner between the Principal Town of Portlaoise (up to 18,106) and the County Balance (up to 58,963), encompassing the measured growth of: o The 5 Service Towns [Abbeyleix, Graiguecullen, Mountrath, Mountmellick, Stradbally], 2 Local Service Towns [Durrow, Rathdowney], and villages of population not exceeding 800, o The consolidation of the one Key Service Town of Portarlington and o The maintenance of viable rural communities in the hinterlands of these towns and villages; x Develop the full potential of each part of County Laois to contribute to the optimal performance of the County as a whole ʹ economically, socially, culturally and environmentally; x Build on the regional-level linkages between County Laois and other parts of the Midlands Region and adjoining regions such as the Southeast Region, Midwest Region and Greater Dublin Region, by supporting the implementation of regional spatial strategies, such as the Regional Planning Guidelines, collaborating on support for critical enabling infrastructure, such as inter-regional road and rail linkages, and co-operating on areas of mutual planning interest; x develop a regional brand to capitalise on the central geographical location of the region in its entirety and complete the branding strategy for the region x Facilitate the future sustainable development of County Laois so as to optimise the benefits of itslocation in accordance with the National Spatial Strategy (NSS) and the Midland Regional

25 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

Planning Guidelines 2010 and other Section 28 guidelines as published by the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government; x Promote and encourage the development of critical mass in Portlaoise and enable more economic development opportunities and the provision of services in a cost effect manner; x Target Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)to appropriate zoned locations in the principal town of Portlaoise and the key service town of Portarlington; x Promote and safeguard the development of sustainable transportation corridors within the County in accordance with the vision of the NSS; x Minimise the level of flood risk to people , business, infrastructure and the environment, through the identification and management of existing , and particularly potential future , flood risks. Flood risk will be incorporated in an integrated , pro active and transparent manner in line with evolving best practice into decision making processes for future development and use of land in the County; x Support the development of key infrastructure such as telecommunications, electricity, gas to enable economic development and access to the alternative energy market; x &ĂĐŝůŝƚĂƚĞ ƚŚĞ ƉƌŽǀŝƐŝŽŶ ŽĨ ŚŽƵƐŝŶŐ ŝŶ Ă ƌĂŶŐĞ ŽĨ ůŽĐĂƚŝŽŶƐ ƚŽ ŵĞĞƚ ƚŚĞ ŶĞĞĚƐ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ŽƵŶƚǇ͛Ɛ population, with particular emphasis on facilitating access to housing to suit different household and tenure needs in a sustainable manner and in appropriate location as outlined in the following chapters; x Build on the economic strengths of County Laois in a balanced and sustainable manner focusing on the opportunities as outlined in the following chapters; x Build on the tourism opportunities of County Laois in a balanced and sustainable manner; x Facilitate the provision of and improvements to social and recreational infrastructure and provide access to new and existing community facilities throughout the County for all its residents; x Facilitate the economic and social development of the County through the provision of adequate transport infrastructure and optimise the return of investment on infrastructure while preserving the natural and built heritage; x Ensure a good quality of life and good health for the residents of Laois through maintaining and improving waste water treatment and water supplies and to minimise the adverse impacts of development on the environment through policies for the management of waste and emissions; x Reinforce the distinctive character of County Laois through ensuring that sites and species of biodiversity importance are identified, conserved and managed appropriately and by promoting awareness and enjoyment of the heritage of the County; x Protect, conserve and enhance the built, natural and cultural environment through promoting awareness, utilising relevant heritage legislation and promoting good quality urban and rural design; x Ensure the orderly development of the County through the implementation of development control policies and standards for a range of types of developments; x Promote the balanced and sustainable development of the urban and rural areas of the County for a range of residential, services amenities and employment opportunities. x Promote and support the development of the renewable energy resource of the County including in particular from wind, waste material, solar, hydro and biomass energy, subject to normal proper WůĂŶŶŝŶŐĐŽŶƐŝĚĞƌĂƚŝŽŶƐ͛͘

26 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

x ͚WƌŽŵŽƚĞĂŶĚƐƵƉƉŽƌƚƚŚĞĚĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚŽĨƚŚĞƌĞŶĞǁĂďůĞĞŶĞƌŐǇƌĞƐŽƵƌĐĞƐŽĨƚŚĞŽƵŶƚǇŝŶĐůƵĚŝŶŐ in particular from wind, waste material, solar, hydro and biomass energy, subject to normal proper WůĂŶŶŝŶŐĐŽŶƐŝĚĞƌĂƚŝŽŶƐ͛͘

3.3 STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES

The following key Strategic opportunities are developed in more detail in each of the following strategy sections ʹ

3.3.1 Enterprise And Employment

In order to capitalize on the proximity of the towns and villages in the County to the newly constructed M7/ M8 Motorway, it is important that the strategic location of a number of areas are developed during the plan period 2011-2017.

Portlaoise and the Togher National Enterprise Park The Togher National Enterprise Park consists of a 250 acre land bank south of Portlaoise with access from the Togher interchange on the M7. Some employment opportunities emerged during the last plan period with the opening of the National Traincare Depot which produced 80 jobs. However the potential to fully unlock this area as a driver for County and regional growth given its location in the immediate vicinity of road (M7/M8/N80) and rail corridors of national strategic importance and alignment with regional and national planning policy has yet to be fully realised. A Masterplan was prepared for this strategic area in 2009 and subsequently adopted as an amendment to the Portlaoise Local Area Plan 2006-2012 in April 2010.

/Ŷ ƚŚĞ ŵĞĚŝƵŵ ƚŽ ůŽŶŐ ƚĞƌŵ͕ WŽƌƚůĂŽŝƐĞ ǁŝůů ĐŽŶƚŝŶƵĞ ƚŽ ďĞ ƐƚƌĞŶŐƚŚĞŶĞĚ ŚĂǀŝŶŐ ƌĞŐĂƌĚ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ƚŽǁŶ͛Ɛ designation in the National Spatial Strategy and Regional Planning Guidelines as a Principal Town as well as a National Transport Node and Inland Port to which much future investment will be channelled.

Portarlington and Ballybrittas as industrial nodes Portarlington offers an attractive opportunity to facilitate further enterprise and employment given the existence of substantial industrial land banks, existing commercial infrastructure in the shape of the closed Avon factory, and the benefit of frequent train services travelling north, south, east and west. Ballybrittas is located 2 miles from the New Interchange on the M7 Dublin - Cork/ Limerick motorway. An industrial land bank with planning permission also is located here. It is an objective of this plan to activate enterprise and employment opportunities in both these locations in order to sustain the resident population of the north / north east of the County and wider hinterland.

South West Laois Regeneration

The South west of the County has historically been dependent on an agricultural based economy. There has been many successful attempts to introduce new land uses into this area with the development of Brand Central at Rathdowney ʹ a retail outlet centre and Dunnes Stores convenience store. Improved road infrastructure such as the completed M7/M8 has now opened up possibility in the south west of the County to allow for expansion to existing businesses and the emergence of new uses. The public transport facility at Ballybrophy is underutilised and has the potential to deliver smarter travel actions for this area which will benefit the County at large. Also large tracts of enterprise and employment lands exist in close proximity to the Borris in Ossory Interchange on the M7 Dublin - Limerick at Borris in Ossory village and the Granstown Interchange on the M8 Dublin ʹ Cork at both Rathdowney and Ballacolla. These will be further pursued during this plan period. This refers to zoned lands within planned urban boundaries and does not

27 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017 promote or encourage isolated development at junctions removed from urban areas. Development should occur in a plan led manner. This is supported by the preferred development plan strategy, section 3.5, and policies set out in Chapter 10 in relation to transport and access.

3.3.2 Rural Economy

Agriculture has traditionally been the mainstay of rural economies and while it has experienced major change in the past 30 years, it will continue to play an important role in County Laois. However this sector is now more multifaceted than what it was previously with a number of new emerging non agricultural resource based dependent activities such as

Agri food A number of indigenous start ups have emerged in the County that are focused on niche consumer foods built around locally sourced ingredients and aimed at higher value markets ʹGallic Kitchen, Festa Foods, etc. Small scale artisan producers have also emerged in the County many of whom have developed alternative farm enterprises- 'ĞĞ͛Ɛ :ĂŵƐ͕ ^ƚĂŶůĞǇƐ /ĐĞ ƌĞĂŵ͕ ĞƚĐ͘ The agri food industry in the County needs to increase its added value, diversify its markets and increase productivity to remain competitive in the current economic climate. Encouraging food production for local markets is a key objective of this plan.

Forestry Afforestation has become a significant feature in the County over the last decade as a result of targeted grant aid schemes. It is considered that the continued development of this sector should be promoted in a sustainable manner, compatible with the protection of the environment. The potential for afforestation in conjunction with a species diversification programme favouring the planting of native broadleaves, carried out in tandem with the development of amenity leisure walks, trails could become a realistic alternative to mono species coniferous developments. Afforested areas provide suitable locations for recreation pursuits such as mountain biking, hiking, orienteering and nature walks.

Agri tourism Tourism is a major source of rural development. Nationally, the tourism industry contributes to the vitality and sustainability of a wide variety of local enterprises, particularly in rural areas. Tourism promotes an enhanced awareness and positive appreciation of local traditions and ways of life. Some examples of rural tourism that have been developed in Laois are Kilvahan Horse Drawn Caravans, Portlaoise Pet Farm, Ballaghmore Country house, Coolanowle House, Ballickmoyler. The Council will endeavour to facilitate the development of tourist products in rural areas in order to contribute to the sustainable diversification of the rural economy.

3.3.3 Extractive Industries

Many quarry areas emerged during the last plan period. These now are nearing the end of their lifespan. Reuse of quarry areas for new employment uses will be considered, however this will be guided by environmental considerations given the sensitive nature of the use and in the interests of maintaining safety and capacity on the national road network, the development must be consistent with policies included in Chapter 10. Restoration plans must be provided in all cases.

28 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

3.3.4 Energy

Focusing on alternative energy options, employment opportunities exist in the retrofitting houses for energy efficiency, facilitating repairs workshops, developing a hardwood industry and an industry in processing recyclable materials and providing training and education in these areas. These areas are all areas which can lead to sustainable forms on employment during the plan period 2011-2017.

3.3.5 Peatlands

The Peatlands in County Laois continue to offer a strategic opportunity for new uses in line with both the employment and heritage agendas. Bord na Mona has identified the need to diversify from peat extraction to sustainable enterprises such as wind energy, biomass, environmental products, resource recovery and eco tourism. It is an objective of the MRPGs to carry out a holistic management plan for the peatlands of the region to set out the potential land uses having regard to their protection through international and national designations.

3.3.6 Tourism

The benefits that tourism can bring to the County are very significant. A policy framework for sustainable tourism in the County will be developed focusing on the following three broad tourism assets that the County has to offer.

Slieve Blooms and the Towns and Villages in the Foothills. The EU transnational project on Eco tourism provides an excellent framework to build on in terms of securing the enhancement and presentation of this area. A multi-agency task force has been established to coordinate marketing and development in the Slieve Blooms area. An initial product audit carried out on the Slieve Blooms by the Task Group identified a high proportion of unapproved accommodation providers within the area- specifically in the villages around the Slieve Blooms. Further enhancement of the towns and villages in the wider Slieve Blooms area would add to the character and ambience of the region. A coordinated strategy between all of the stakeholders including Laois and Offaly Local Authorities, Shannon Development Company and Fáilte Ireland is required to expedite this process.

Historic Towns and Cultural Attractions County Laois has a number of attractive towns and villages as well as some very notable heritage attractions such as Fort of Maryborough, Emo Court and the Rock of Dunamaise. The public realm improvements which have been undertaken by Laois County Council in Abbeyleix over the past number of years serve as best practice in how to improve the attractiveness of a town as a whole. The archaeological heritage of the County offers tourism opportunity to be explored.

Waterways The waterways product builds on the attractive nature of the Grand Canal and the Rivers Barrow and Nore which pass through County Laois. Vicarstown is a particularly attractive village situated on the canal but the absence of pump out facilities and amenities at this location are factors which prevent it from developing its full tourist potential. Key requirements needed to build on this opportunity are identification of trails along and linking into the waterways corridor, assessment of visitors requirements, identification of services hubs and nodes along the canal corridor and planning for appropriate commercial uses at these locations and design guidance as to how to accommodate development while protecting the quality of the natural and built heritage.

29 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

3.4 THE CORE STRATEGY

This strategy has developed from the vision for the County over the period 2011-2017. It sets out the broad brush and spatial approach the Council will take in developing Laois over the plan period. .

3.5 PREFERED STRATEGY - STRATEGIC PLANNING

The National Spatial Strategy (NSS) and the Midlands Regional Planning Guidelines (MRPGs) 2010 prescribe that development is targeted for the Southern Development Area and Principal town of Portlaoise to complement the Gateway of Athlone- Tullamore - Mullingar.

The development plan strategy is based on the division of County Laois into two areas as per the Midland Regional Planning Guidelines (MRPGs), 2010.

Southern Development Area (SDA) The Southern Development Area (SDA) borders the South East Region and the Mid-West Region and ĞŶĐŽŵƉĂƐƐĞƐĂůůŽĨŽƵŶƚǇ>ĂŽŝƐ;ĂƐŝĚĞĨƌŽŵWŽƌƚĂƌůŝŶŐƚŽŶĂŶĚĨŝǀĞƌƵƌĂů͛Ɛ͕ǁŚŝĐŚĂƌĞŝŶĐůƵĚĞĚŝŶƚŚĞ Ϳ͘dŚĞ^ĂĐĐŽƵŶƚƐĨŽƌĂƉƉƌŽǆŝŵĂƚĞůǇϮϰйŽĨƚŚĞDŝĚůĂŶĚZĞŐŝŽŶ͛ƐƉŽƉƵůĂƚŝŽŶ;^K͕ϮϬϬϲͿ͘dŚĞ^ retains strong links with Greater Dublin Area (GDA) and is serviced by national road and rail routes. The sphere of influence of the GDA impacts on the commuting and employment patterns in this Development Area. The SDA has a well-defined hierarchical settlement structure, with Portlaoise, as the Principal Town, acting as the predominant urban structure and the driver of growth within this zone. Service employment in numerous state, semi-state and local government organisations is significant, particularly in Portlaoise.

Future population growth, taking account of both recent trends and the wider regional strategic goals, for this Development Area indicate that development plans should make provision for an overall population growth of the area of around 10,906 persons, of which 5,000 is required for the Principal Town of Portlaoise in the period to 2022.

The future development of this area will require the strengthening and consolidation of the existing infrastructure that forms an important element in the prosperity of the region. Innate strengths should be built upon, including opportunities in transport based industries such as freight and logistics. The development of a strategically located land bank of a critical mass at Portlaoise is being progressed and will continue to facilitate the realisation of the concept of the distribution hub role for Portlaoise as envisaged in the NSS and Midland Regional Planning Guidelines, acting as a catalyst for the economic growth of this Development Area and the wider region.

Eastern Development Area (EDA) The Eastern Development Area (EDA) is located on the border with the GDA and has experienced significant ŐƌŽǁƚŚŽǀĞƌƚŚĞůĂƐƚĐĞŶƐƵƐƉĞƌŝŽĚĂŶĚĂĐĐŽƵŶƚƐĨŽƌĂƉƉƌŽǆŝŵĂƚĞůǇϭϬйŽĨƚŚĞŽǀĞƌĂůůDŝĚůĂŶĚZĞŐŝŽŶ͛Ɛ population (CSO, 2006).Patterns of development and growth within this Development Area in the last inter census period (between 2002 and 2006) have been heavily influenced by pressures from the GDA, primarily due to the shortage of affordable housing in the GDA. This resulted in rapid growth of a wide range of smaller towns and villages located on or near the main radial road and rail routes connecting Dublin to the regions with resultant severe pressure on social and physical infrastructure. More recently, and mainly due to the recent economic downturn (2009), and in contrast to the remaining Development Areas, it is considered that the EDA may experience greater socio-economic challenges in the future.

There is potential for growth in employment generation because of a readily available workforce within this area. One of the key priorities should be to resist any further development of large-scale residential development and to avoid over-development of towns and settlements. The provision of necessary social and community infrastructure to serve resident populations should be a priority. The EDA consists of five County Laois District Electoral Divisions and the Key service town of Portarlington.

30 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

A further break down of these two development areas into the electoral areas of County Laois (See Map 1.3.5) produces a strategy that allows for areas to develop on the back of their strengths and opportunities within the County whilst contributing to the overall sustainable development of the County. The policies and objectives of this plan will follow from this preferred strategy and the main aims. However such actions may be constrained by economic circumstances and lack of Local Authority financial resources throughout the plan period.

3.5.1 Portlaoise Area

The strategic centrality and prominence of Portlaoise is recognised in the National Spatial Strategy (NSS) and the Midland Regional Planning Guidelines (MRPGs) which envisage the town as having strong National Development Potential as a major transport hub and distribution centre. Major road/rail infrastructure investment has taken place in the recent past and continues to take place, further maximising the accessibility of the town. The bulk of residential development will be channelled into Portlaoise. This development strategy prioritises economic development for the Principal town of Portlaoise, which has a prime position on the national road network to economically sustain the critical mass of the Southern Development Area and reap the benefits of the improved Motorway corridors and public transport networks.

The consistent, appropriate, sequential growth and development of Portlaoise is to remain the focus and the priority for the SDA in order to ensure that its role as a Principal Town is fully maximised and can therefore strongly support and contribute to the delivery of a successful Urban Core, and in particular, a successful Midland Linked Gateway.

It is also of strategic importance that the capacity and efficiency of existing motorway and rail links to Dublin are protected. The allocation of large tracts of serviced land at Togher as a National Enterprise Park for enterprise, employment and industrial uses in the immediate vicinity of national strategic transport infrastructure represents a unique opportunity to develop a cluster of complementary enterprises and a diverse economic base for the County and the region. This fulfils objectives as set out in the National Spatial Strategy and Midland Regional Planning Guidelines 2010. The ability of this location to service the needs of large Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) should be maximized and will be developed during this plan period.

The MRPGs stress that small urban centres must be strengthened to support rural hinterlands. Ballyroan is one such village that has an important role to play in supporting a solid population base and a rural hinterland. Residential development will be controlled within this centre to ensure that housing requirements will be in character with the scale of existing development. This can be achieved through adequate zoning of lands, provision of services and a facilitatory approach to appropriately scaled urban development.

3.5.2 Borris in Ossory Area

Borris in Ossory area is the largest geographic area within the County and has the following service towns as drivers for residential development during the plan period ʹ Abbeyleix, Mountrath and local service towns of Rathdowney and Durrow.

The MRPGs stress that small urban centres must be strengthened to support rural hinterlands. There are a number of such villages within the Borris in Ossory area ʹCullahill, Ballinakill, Shanahoe.

Residential development will be controlled so as to ensure that housing requirements will be in character with the scale of existing development. This can be achieved through adequate zoning of lands, provision of services and a facilitatory approach to appropriately scaled urban development.

31 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

It is also of strategic importance that the capacity and efficiency of existing motorway and rail links to Dublin are protected, therefore in order to capitalize on the improved national road / motorway network and public transport network of the Dublin ʹ Cork rail line it is proposed to direct economic development to the nearby towns of: Rathdowney, Ballacolla and Borris in Ossory in the south western part of the County.

County Laois has a number of attractive towns and villages and notable heritage attractions. Within easy reach of the Borris in Ossory area there are many fine examples of such heritage ʹ Abbeyleix, Durrow, Aghaboe, Ballinakill, Heywood gardens and Donaghmore Workhouse complex. Donaghmore Workhouse Complex is located 3km from Ballybrophy Station on the Dublin ʹ Cork rail mainline. This offers economic potential which will help rejuvenate the south west of the County and capitalize on proximity to the national road and public transport networks.

3.5.3 Mountmellick Area

The settlement hierarchy of the Mountmellick area is dominated by the service town of Mountmellick where residential development will be channelled through during the plan period 2011-2017. This area has the potential to develop as the gateway to the Slieve Blooms with the towns of Rosenallis and Clonaslee and Ballyfin focusing on tourism development to support eco tourist opportunities within the Slieve Blooms.

The Slieve Bloom Mountains are one of the most important and attractive heritage assets in Laois. They contain the largest and most intact area of mountain blanket bog in the Country, feature an interesting complex of esker ridges of ecological importance, host rare birds such as the predatory hen harrier, peregrine, merlin and red grouse, are a biogenetic reserve of European importance, and wetlands of international importance. The Slieve Blooms are a distinctive element of the Laois landscape and contain the source of the river Barrow. Existing amenity areas, walking routes and car parks are in place and there are plans are to create an off road cycling network and related facilities.

3.5.4 Luggacurren Area

Graiguecullen is located in the extreme southern tip of the Southern Development Area (SDA) of the Midlands Region and is heavily linked and connected to Carlow and the adjacent South East Region for the majority of its services.

Graiguecullen is the designated service town within the Luggacurren electoral Area. Controlled residential development will continue to be channelled there during the plan period 2011-2017. Owing to the location of Graiguecullen on the Laois / Carlow border and within the environs of Carlow Town, it is imperative that critical mass is built at this location to support the urban centre of Carlow as a whole. It is an objective of this plan to prepare a joint plan for Carlow / Graiguecullen during the plan period to ensure a coordinated approach to development.

The MRPGs stress that small urban centres must be strengthened to support rural hinterlands. There are a number of such villages within the Luggacurren area ʹ Killeshin, Ballylinan, Arles, Killeen Timahoe.

This area has the potential to develop as a tourist destination in the County with the scenic Killeshin Plateau / Rossmore area and Fossey Mountain. Villages such as Killeshin and Timahoe will be the focus of tourist and amenity development to support eco tourism opportunities within the Luggacurren area.

3.5.5 Emo Area

Part of the Emo Area falls within the Eastern Development Area as set out in the MRPGs. The policies in relation to this area aim to consolidate the development of previously fast growing towns and villages,

32 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017 ensuring a sequential approach to development and also to ensure a co-ordinated planning approach to development within Portarlington. It is an objective of this plan to prepare a coordinated Local Area Plan for Portarlington in conjunction with Offaly Local Authorities during the plan period. It is the Council policy to encourage moderate scale consolidation rather than large scale growth of the population base of Portarlington within County Laois and the promotion of employment generation and service provision.

It is an objective within this area to support employment generation (including upskilling and training) to create more self sustaining development for the population currently residing in the area and commuting to Dublin for employment.

It is also of strategic importance that the capacity and efficiency of existing motorway and rail links to Dublin are protected, to this end commercial and economic opportunities within this area will be channelled to the existing settlements of Portarlington and Ballybrittas.

Stradbally is the service town for the remainder of the County Laois area of the Southern Development Area (SDA) of the Midlands Region. The Midland Regional Planning Guidelines stress that small urban centres must be strengthened to support rural hinterlands. There are a number of such villages within the Emo area ʹ Emo and Vicarstown.

Residential development will be controlled within these towns and villages to ensure that housing requirements will in character with the scale of existing development subject to infrastructural capacity being available. This can be achieved through adequate zoning of lands, provision of services and a facilitatory approach to appropriately scaled urban development.

The main waterways of the County pass through this area- River Barrow and the Grand Canal. This area has the potential to develop as a tourist destination based on the waterways product. Villages such as Vicarstown have the potential to develop this opportunity.

3.5.6 Rural development

This development strategy places emphasises on strengthening the rural areas in the west and south of the County (west and south of the M8) and controlling rural residential development in the eastern and northern sections of the County where pressure for residential development will be channelled into the designated settlements in order to protect the strategic infrastructure, which is key to the economic development of the County. Environmental protection zones such as aquifers, Special Areas of Conservation/Natural Heritage Areas, Special Protection Areas are protected.

3.6 CONFORMANCE WITH NSS AND RGGS.

The County Development Plan 2011-2017 and the Housing Strategy 2011-2017 articulate, at a County level, national and regional spatial polices as expressed in the National Spatial Strategy (NSS) and the Regional Planning Guidelines for the Midland Region 2010.

Through appropriate objectives and policies, the County Development Plan 2011-2017 aims to respond in a coherent and sustainable manner to the challenges facing the County by providing a framework which encourages and facilitates the physical social and economic development of our towns and villages in line with National and Regional policy.

33 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

3.7 SETTLEMENT STRATEGY

Following on from the Core Strategy for County Laois, the Settlement Strategy for the County forms the basic framework for the development of the County by identifying an integrated network of service centres where population growth should take place.

The objectives of the settlement strategy are:

DPS 3 / O01 to encourage the development of a critical mass of people in the service centres to support economic development;

DPS 3 / O02 to encourage employment opportunities;

DPS 3 / O03 to underpin the provision of additional infrastructure and protect designated areas and high amenity value in the county as important elements of rural character and ensure that any plan or project associated with the provision of infrastructure which has the potential to significantly effect a Natura 2000 site is assessed in accordance with article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of that site;

DPS 3 / O04 to sustain local services; and

DPS 3 / O05 to strengthen local communities in these centres and their hinterlands.

The provision of infrastructural services, the need to maintain and enhance essential community and social services and to ensure that future development is carried out in a sustainable, coordinated manner have been a key factors in influencing the Settlement Strategy.

The Settlement Strategy for the County has always been to encourage the growth of the County towns and villages, whilst catering for housing needs in the rural countryside. The Laois County Development Plan 2000 saw the identification of 9 no. settlements.

This was expanded to 34 settlements in the County Development Plan 2006-2012 to: x Focus on developing the critical mass of the towns and villages, x Optimise the investment in infrastructure and x Alleviate the pressure for rural housing.

The Development Plan Guidelines issued by the DoEHLG in 2007 require Local Authorities to match the area of land zoned to the projected housing land requirement, thereby avoiding the x Overprovision of zoned lands x Pressure on limited infrastructure, x Potential leap-frogging of undeveloped lands and x Pressure for development in unserviced areas.

Equally the under provision of land is to be avoided to discourage artificially inflating the property market and to recognise the fact that not all private lands zoned for development are brought forward by landowners for development.

Sustainable rural development and the growth of local communities will be supported through a Rural Settlement Strategy that focuses on meeting the proven housing needs of the community whilst protecting sensitive landscape areas and strategic infrastructure.

34 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

3.8 DEVELOPMENT WITHIN THE LAST PLAN PERIOD

The last plan period has seen substantial residential development and pressure for houses in both the towns and villages and in the rural countryside. dŚŝƐ ƵŶƉƌĞĐĞĚĞŶƚĞĚ ŐƌŽǁƚŚ ŚĂƐ ƉůĂĐĞĚ ƉƌĞƐƐƵƌĞ ŽŶ ƚŚĞ ŽƵŶƚǇ͛Ɛ ƉŚǇƐŝĐĂů ŝŶĨƌĂƐƚƌƵĐƚƵƌĞ ;ƌŽĂĚƐ͕ ǁĂƚĞƌ supply and wastewater treatment) and social infrastructure. In zoned areas, the level of housing permitted has absorbed most of the capacity of wastewater treatment plants.

Additional water connections have resulted in limited or no spare capacity, with a need to protect existing ƵƐĞƌƐ͛ǁĂƚĞƌƉƌĞƐƐƵƌĞĂŶĚƉŽƚĂďůĞǁĂƚĞƌƐƵƉƉůǇ͘ĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚŽŶƚŚĞĞĚŐĞŽĨƚŽǁŶƐĂŶĚǀŝůůĂŐĞƐŚĂƐŐŝǀĞŶ rise to a need for investment in extensions of the sewerage network, footpaths and public lighting. Increases in population have led to demands for educational and social facilities, community facilities and amenities such as playgrounds, parks, sporting facilities, primary care health centres, youth clubs, etc. In rural areas, the number of one-off houses constructed has resulted in an increase in the number of entrances opened onto public roads with a resultant increase in traffic movements and journeys and decrease in road safety and carrying capacity of national and regional roads.

There has been an increase in the number of septic tanks and individual wastewater treatment plants discharging to ground. The environmental capacity of an area is limited in terms of the number of septic tanks/wastewater treatment plants and the associated discharge of effluent that it can accommodate without giving rise to a risk of ground water pollution, and this threshold is being reached in some areas. This is a major environmental factor given that 85% of water supplies in County Laois come from ground water (The national figure is 9%).

The capacity of the landscape is also limited in the amount and type of development that it can accommodate and retain its rural character. However, there have been positive aspects of this growth too. Housing has become more affordable. Prospective house buyers have opportunities to live in towns or rural villages.

The construction of housing in rural areas for members of the local community has sustained local communities. More recently, changes in the property market have seen a decline in demand for housing and an associated fall-off in the number of house completions. Whilst this can be viewed as an opportunity to allow infrastructural, social and community facilities to keep pace with the residential growth, there is also a need to ensure that residential development which commenced in this period is completed to a satisfactory standard.

3.9 NATIONAL AND REGIONAL POPULATION TARGETS

The Regional Planning Guidelines Review, Gateway and Hub Population Targets, issued by the DoEHLG in October 2009, sets out population targets for the State and each of the regions up to 2022. In accordance with the guidance in the document, the Midlands Regional Authority (MRA) allocated the Regional population targets at County, Gateway and Principal Town level. The targets for the Gateway (Athlone, Tullamore and Mullingar {ATM}), Laois County and the County Town of Portlaoise as agreed in the Regional Planning Guidelines 2010 are set out in Table 10.

3.10 LOCAL POLICY CONTEXT

County Laois is a largely rural County and in broad terms its population distribution. Portlaoise with a fifth of the population continues to maintain its position of primacy in the settlement hierarchy of the County, growing by over 20% in the space of 4 years (see Table 9).

35 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

A key indicator of the primacy of Portlaoise can be gauged from an examination of recently approved residential units which reveals that from 2005 and 2009 inclusive, a total of 3,382 dwelling units were approved in the town. Its function as a higher order settlement is also confirmed by the range of services it provides ʹ health, sports, education, civic, commercial and retail.

Map 1.3.2: Urban Centres in County Laois ranked by population size in 2006

However, the rate of increase in Portlaoise was eclipsed by other centres, albeit in some cases from relatively small bases to begin with. For example, the population of Graiguecullen grew by 110% [1158 dwelling units were approved here 2005-2009] and that of Portarlington and Mountmellick increased by 59% and 21% respectively. Ballylynan too witnessed a spectacular rate of increase [75%] in these years.

36 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

Table 9 Population Change 2002-2006

Location Persons 2002 Persons Actual change % change 2006 2002-2006 2002- 2006

County Laois 58774 67059 8285 14%

Principal Towns

Portlaoise 12127 14613 2486 20.5%

Key Service Tows

Portarlington 2756 4395 1639 59.5%

Service Towns

Abbeyleix 1383 1568 185 13.4%

Mountrath 1331 1435 104 7.8%

Graiguecullen 1199 2520 1321 110%

Stradbally 1178 1056 -122 -10.4%

Mountmellick 3361 4069 708 21%

Local Service Towns

Rathdowney 1111 1212 101 9.1%

Durrow 717 811 94 13.1%

Towns, Villages and open Countryside

Remainder of County 33611 35380 1769 3.10.1

37 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

Map1.3.3: Demographic Change in County Laois, 2002-2006

By comparison, the rates of increase in other settlements are much smaller; Rathdowney recording an increase of 9% and Mountrath 7.8% while Stradbally and Clonaslee both experienced actual population declines in the order of -10.4% and -6.9%.

With the exception of the Stradbally figures, what is becoming apparent, in general terms at least, is a major divergence between the north and east of the County [that part of the County most linked to the GDA] where the fastest growth rates are occurring and the west and south of the County which is experiencing much more modest growth if at all.

While still an overwhelmingly rural County, the aggregate urban population is steadily increasing in line with regional and national trends. According to the 1996 census, 30.8% of the population lived in urban areas. By 2002 this had risen to 33.1% and reached 40.5% in 2006, representing an overall increase of 30% in 10 years. In the context of a declining agricultural base and net rural outward migration, the trend towards increased urbanisation is likely to continue, notwithstanding the recent downturn in the economy.

38 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

rural areas 40% 60% urban areas (including towns over 1500 populatiuon

Figure 2 Urban v Rural Population Distribution in Laois

3.11 POPULATION TARGETS 2011-2017

This strategy seeks to achieve balanced development within the County whilst supporting both rural and urban settlement in accordance with national and regional policy. By simple interpolation of the growth rate in the period 2016 to 2022 as indicated in the Midland Regional Planning Guidelines 2010 referred to above, population targets for 2018 for County Laois and the Principal Town of Portlaoise are projected to be 77,059 and 18,106 respectively.

3.12 HOUSING LAND REQUIREMENT 2011-2017

In terms of population projections to the target year of 2018 for County Laois as a whole, the Principal Town of Portlaoise and the County Balance [containing Service Towns, Local Service Towns, Key Service Town, Villages of population not exceeding 800 persons and Open Countryside], this Development Plan is consistent with the Midland Regional Planning Guidelines, albeit with some necessary adjustments to take account of the two year time differential between the two documents.

Similarly, for determining the housing land requirements which follow on from the population projections, the Plan mirrors the approach of the MRPGs.

The distribution of future population growth into the various settlements of County Laois is essentially based on each settlĞŵĞŶƚ͛Ɛ ƌŽůĞ ĂŶĚ ƉŽƐŝƚŝŽŶ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ŽǀĞƌĂůů ƐƉĂƚŝĂů ŚŝĞƌĂƌĐŚǇ͘ Ɛ ƌĞĐŽŵŵĞŶĚĞĚ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ MRPGs, the pre-eminence of Portlaoise, with its innate strengths, particularly in the transport sphere, and enhanced links to the Gateway Towns is recognised.

A key objective of the Plan is to integrate and reconcile predicted requirements for residential land with actual provision on the ground having regard to, among other factors, the spatial distribution of development lands throughout the County and the need to support sustainable settlement patterns which in the longer term can be provided with essential physical and social infrastructure.

The Settlement Strategy for County Laois is influenced to a substantial degree by the nature and extent of ƚŚĞ ŽƵŶƚǇ͛Ɛ ŝŶĨƌĂƐƚƌƵĐƚƵral provision across a series of headings including road and rail transport accessibility (for example, the opening of the M7/M8 motorway presents both major opportunities and

39 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017 challenges for the County), social capital (good progress in childcare, primary and second level education provision but critical absence of third level facility which is hindering employment creation), water supply and foul drainage provision (notwithstanding some advancement, there is a serious investment backlog in most of the mid ranking settlements in the County). Zoned lands will be serviced subject to funding availability and compliance with the Core Strategy.

The Settlement Strategy also has regard to considerations relating to the environment and heritage of County Laois, being informed by the SEA process and Appropriate Assessment [under the Habitats Directive] of the potential implications of development on Natura 2000 sites.

The total projected population growth for County Laois for the period 2006-2018 is 10,000. This is calculated in strict adherence [as is required by way of the core strategy] with the population projections of the MRPGs with particular reference to Figures 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3 of that document. The population projections of the MRPGs [and the projections for the three subdivisions of County Laois for 2018] are summarized as follows:

Table 10: County Laois Population Projections as per adopted MPRGs 2010

2006 2016 2018 2022 Midland 251,664 297,300 317,100 County Laois 67,059 75,931 (77,059) 79,314 Portlaoise 14,356 17,481 (18,106) 19,356 County Balance 52,703 58,450 (58,953) 59,958

This Development Plan identifies a strategic housing land requirement for the Plan period 2011-2017 of 273 hectares in order to meet the RPG targets for future population growth for the County as a whole including the principal town of Portlaoise. This requirement is broken down as follows: x 67 ha for the principal town of Portlaoise; x 206 ha for the rest for the County.

The total of 273 hectares will accommodate the following population increases in the period up to 2018: x For the Principal Town of Portlaoise, an increase of 3,750 persons x For the remaining County balance, an increase of 6,250 persons.

The housing land requirement for the County (excluding the principal town) of 206 Ha is based on an average density across the County of 12 residential units per ha and an allowance of headroom to ensure choice in the market for development land equating to a 50% increase on actual housing land requirement, in line with the Development Plan Guidelines for Planning Authorities (DoEHLG 2007).

The density used for Portlaoise is 35 units per ha as per the Midland Regional Planning Guidelines

At present there are 347 Ha of land zoned for residential development in the principal town of Portlaoise and 1,239 Ha of land similarly zoned in the County balance, resulting in an excess of 1,313 ha over the Regional Planning Guidelines 2010 Housing Land requirement.

Table 11 summarises both the population projections and housing land requirements, across all of the settlements as well as rural areas, in County Laois for the Plan period 2012- 2018.

40 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

3.12.1 Population Projected Projected Projected Density Housing Land AREA (ha) Existing 2006 (CSO) Population Population increase in (per ha) Requirement to proposed to be Sewerage 2018 Growth to Households 2018 (Inc. 50% Zoned for TreatmentPlant 2018 to 2018 headroom) Residential capacity Development expressed in PE 2012 - 2018

County Laois 67,059 77,059 10,000 4,167 3.12.2 3.12.3 3.12.4 3.12.5

Southern Development Area (MRPGs) 3.12.6

Portlaoise 14,356 18,106 3,750 1563 35 67 67 39,000

Mountmellick 4,069 4,704 635 265 12 33 33 7,000

Graiguecullen 2,529 2,924 395 164 12 20 20 *36,000

Abbeyleix 1,568 1,813 245 102 12 13 13 2,300

Stradbally 1,056 1,221 165 69 12 9 9 2,000

Mountrath 1,435 1,659 224 93 12 11 11 2,500

SubͶtotal 10,657 12,321 1,664 693 3.12.7 86 86 3.12.8

Rathdowney 1,212 1,401 189 79 12 10 10 1,500

Durrow 811 938 127 53 12 7 7 1,200

Sub-total 2,023 2,339 316 132 3.12.9 17 17 3.12.10

Eastern Development Area(MRPGs) 3.12.11

Portarlington 4,395 4,829 434 181 12 23 23 **13,000

Villages less 3.12.12 3.12.13 1,536 640 12 80 80 3.12.14 than 800

Open 3.12.15 3.12.16 2,300 958 3.12.17 3.12.18 3.12.19 3.12.20 Countryside

TOTAL 3.12.21 3.12.22 10,000 4,167 3.12.23 273 273 3.12.24

*Effluent from the town of Graiguecullen is treated at the Mortarstown Effluent Treatment Plant which is located in the functional area of Carlow County Council.

**Portarlington plant treats effluent from the town of Portarlington [both Laois and Offaly parts of the town], as well as from the outlying settlements of Killenard and Ballybrittas.

41 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

The following Table shows the comparison of the amount of land zoned for residential development in the periods 2006-2012 and 2011-2017. Table 12: Comparison of Areas Zoned 2006- 2012/Proposed Zoning 2011-2017

Settlement per Area of undeveloped Area proposed for Area proposed for category residential zoned land, residential zoning Strategic Reserve 2006-2012 2011-2017 2011-2017 Principal Town Portlaoise 347 ha 67 ha 0(LAP) Key Service Town Portarlington 97 Ha 23 ha 0(LAP) Service Town Abbeyleix 148 Ha 13 ha 66 ha Mountrath 111 Ha 11 ha 27 ha Mountmellick 180 Ha 33 ha 0(LAP) Graiguecullen 89 Ha 20 ha 0(LAP) Stradbally 83 Ha 9 ha 51 ha Subtotal 611 ha 86 ha 144 ha Local Service Town Durrow 68 Ha 7 ha 16.ha Rathdowney 118 Ha 10 ha 52 ha Subtotal 186 ha 17 ha 68 ha Villages 345 Ha 80 ha 65 ha County Total 1,586 Ha 273 ha 277 ha

During the period from 2005 - 2009, 23% of households permitted in County Laois comprised one-off sites all of which are assumed to be in open countryside. Therefore 23% of 4,167, which is calculated at 958, is the projected number of households for the open countryside for the period 2006-2018.

3.13 LANDS AVAILABLE WITHIN TOWN / VILLAGE CENTRES

In accordance with the principles of the Core Strategy, the town centre/ village centre zoning is the preferred choice for residential development, however there are limiting factors which may be applicable e.g. the historic formation of many of the main towns in County Laois, flooding implications (as identified in the Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (SFRA)), inadequate access, limited and fragmented land holdings and the requirement to facilitate retail development in these locations in accordance with the sequential test under the Retail Planning Guidelines 2005.

3.14 STRATEGIC RESERVE

Regarding lands included in the Strategic Reserve land bank, it is important to highlight that the inclusion of such lands will not in any way imply a prior commitment on the part of Laois County Council regarding their

42 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017 future zoning during the review of the subsequent Development Plan for the plan period 2018-2024. Such a decision will be considered within the framework of national and regional population targets applicable at that time and the proper planning and sustainable development of the County.

3.15 SETTLEMENT HIERARCHY dŚĞ ĨƵŶĚĂŵĞŶƚĂů ƉƵƌƉŽƐĞ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ŽƵŶƚǇ͛Ɛ ^ĞƚƚůĞŵĞŶƚ ^ƚƌĂƚĞŐǇ ǁŝůů ďĞ ƚŽ ƉƌŽŵŽƚĞ ĂƉƉƌŽƉƌŝĂƚĞ ůĞǀĞůƐ ŽĨ sustainable development within the existing zoned settlements throughout the County. This strategy will help to deliver a range of house types, facilities, infrastructure, amenities and an efficient transport system. This in turn will facilitate linkages between settlements, support their expansion and consolidation, and in so doing, will help create high quality living environments. The strategy will provide for the creation of a settlement hierarchy reflecting the development role of each settlement type, and assist the Council in formulating realistic objectives, that can be delivered through the policies of the Plan.

The County Settlement Strategy is aimed at ensuring that towns and villages offer attractive and affordable housing options to meet the housing needs of urban and rural communities. Sensitively scaled and phased residential developments, with an appropriate housing-mix, will be encouraged in settlements to create sustainable communities and to help deliver the critical mass of population needed for the provision and support of educational, community and social services, improved amenities and sustainable employment opportunities.

This approach to delivering the Settlement Strategy will promote compact urban forms; make optimum use of infrastructural and community facilities, and reduce unnecessary and unsustainable travel demand patterns. It will also assist in mitigating excessive levels of pressure for urban generated development in rural areas, especially those closest to the environs of towns, and thereby enhance the availability and affordability of sites and housing in rural areas to meet the housing needs of the established rural community.

The Development Objectives for each of the settlements is set out in Volume 2 of the County Development Plan 2011-2017. In total, 30 no. settlements are identified in this Development Plan. These settlements, which have been or can be serviced, are considered best positioned geographically and from a social, economic and community perspective, to ensure balanced County development.

43 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

PRINCIPAL TOWN - Portlaoise

KEY SERVICE TOWN - Portarlington

SERVICE TOWNS - Abbeyleix, Mountrath, Strabally, Graiguecullen, Mountmellick

LOCAL SERVICE TOWNS - Rathdowney, Durrow

VILLAGES > 400 POPULATION Borris in Ossory, Ballylinan, Clonaslee, Ballinakill

VILLAGES < 400 POPULATION Attanagh, Arles, Ballcolla, Ballybrittas, Ballyroan, Camross, Castletown, Clough, Coolrain, Cullahill, Emo,Errill, Killenard, Kileen, Killeshin, Newtown Doonane, Rosenallis, Shanahoe, The Swan, Timahoe, Vicarstown

RURAL SETTLEMENTS Ballaghmore, Ballickmoyler, Ballintubbert, Ballyadams, Ballybrophy, Clonaghadoo, Crettyard, Donaghmore, Fisherstown, Jamestown, Luggacurren, Raheen, Raheenaniska, Pike of Rushall , Spink, The Heath , The Rock, Wolfhill

OPEN COUNTRYSIDE

It is the policy of the Council to: DPS 3 / P01 Meet the housing needs of the County in an environmentally sustainable manner.

DPS 3 / P02 Promote nucleated settlements and serviced sites within villages

44 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

DPS 3 / P03 Encourage housing development to locate in designated towns and villages as indicated in the settlement strategy, where social and infrastructural services exist or will be provided as resources become available and ensure the provision of adequate services such as water supply and wastewater treatment prior to development occurring;

DPS 3 / P04 Protect designated areas and high amenity value in the County as important elements of rural character and ensure that any plan or project associated with the provision of new housing which has the potential to significantly affect a Natura 2000 site is appropriately assessed in accordance with Article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of the site and comply with EIA legislation as relevant; DPS 3 / P05 Encourage appropriate levels of residential development in smaller settlements particularly where there is a basic nucleus of community facilities and services which may include all or some of the following - school, post office, local shop, church, etc; DPS 3 / P06 Minimise the amount of urban generated rural housing particularly in areas of development pressure close to urban areas; DPS 3 / P07 Meet the needs of those who reside in rural areas by virtue of employment or essential social reasons; DPS 3 / P08 Protect the designated areas of natural heritage, and high amenity value in the County as important elements of rural character; DPS 3 / P09 Promote high quality house design with appropriate siting, landscaping, materials and fenestration; DPS 3 / P10 Ensure access control and safeguard the capacity of the national road network in accordance with the Spatial Planning and National Roads Guidelines (Draft) 2010; DPS 3 / P11 Use the water services small schemes programme and group sewerage schemes programme in conjunction with local development groups and/or private individuals and developers to facilitate the development of waste water treatment facilities and water supplies in small settlements; DPS 3 / P12 Facilitate the development of waste water treatment facilities and water supplies in small settlements through co operation with developers and community groups and promote the connection of all urban houses to waste water treatment in order to resolve septic tank issues The sanitary services small schemes, and group sewage scheme programmes will be used to advance this policy. DPS 3 / P13 Investigate the feasibility of waste to energy solutions - anaerobic digestion. DPS 3 / P14 Ensure power for all new treatment facilities is a sustainable local source and endeavor to convert existing facilities. DPS 3 / P15 Ensure new and upgraded facilities in settlements are as self sustaining as possible, endeavoring to avoid fossil fuel dependence in light of peak oil and climate change.

45 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

3.16 PRINCIPAL TOWNS

The principal towns are part of the broader polycentric settlement model, centred on the linked gateway. Portlaoise is designated as a Principal Town within the Region in the Midland regional planning guidelines 2010.It is a large urban centre and economic drivers in the south Midlands with distinct local economies and strong links to the adjacent regions. In order to fulfil this role, the Principal town will be a significant focus for future population growth in the County settlement hierarchy.

In terms of functions, Portlaoise has other service roles including Public Service, education, and tourism, financial and retail for a large hinterland. From an employment perspective, Portlaoise continues to be an ŝŵƉŽƌƚĂŶƚ ĐŽŶƚƌŝďƵƚŽƌ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ŽƵŶƚǇ͛Ɛ ĞĐŽŶŽŵǇ͕ Ğspecially with respect to the public sector with Department of Agriculture, Prison Service and Regional Hospitals located therein. The Planning framework for Portlaoise is set out in the Portlaoise Local Area Plan 2006-2012 as amended in April 2010.

It is the policy of the Council to DPS 3 / P16 Direct population into the Principal town to ensure that population growth is appropriate in scale with its identified role in the Regional and County settlement hierarchy as indicated in this chapter; DPS 3 / P17 Apply increased residential densities up to 35 per hectare where appropriate to do so having regard to Sustainable Residential Developments in Urban Areas (2009); DPS 3 / P18 Apply appropriate development management measures in ensuring growth is appropriate and in compliance with the Midland Regional Planning Guidelines 2010.

46 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

3.17 KEY SERVICE TOWNS

Key service towns act as important drivers for local economies in areas that are comparatively more remote from the main population centres of the region. Well established economic, administrative and social functions are provided in these settlements at levels commensurate with their position in the urban hierarchy. The development of these towns will be closely linked to the development of the principal towns and linked gateway.

Portarlington is the Key Service Town in County Laois and functions as a support to the development of Tullamore, (part of the ATM Gateway) and Principal town of Portlaoise. Portarlington is located on the Dublin Cork/ Dublin Galway. It has the critical mass to support its own services and industry. It is recognised that Portarlington must strengthen and widen its economic base so as to retain its population, and promote a balanced spatial structure to ensure its continued vitality and development. However, it is also acknowledged that the continued expansion of the town must be regulated to ensure that community, social and retail developments keep pace with recent rapid phases of mainly residential development.

Land use planning in Portarlington is guided by the Portarlington Local Area Plan 2007-2013.

It is the policy of the Council to DPS 3 / P19 Direct population growth in line with the settlement hierarchy and in compliance with the policies for the Eastern Development Area of the Midland Regional Planning Guidelines ; DPS 3 / P20 Promote higher densities at appropriate locations, owing to position on public transport network where appropriate to do so having regard to Sustainable Residential Developments in Urban Areas (2009) and ensure that any plan or project associated with the provision of new housing which has the potential to significantly affect a Natura 2000 site is appropriately assessed in accordance with Article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of the site.; DPS 3 / P21 Apply appropriate development management measures in ensuring growth is appropriate and in compliance with the Midland Regional Planning Guidelines; DPS 3 / P22 Ensure that new residential development complies with the sequential test approach. DPS 3 / P23 Prepare a joint Local Area Plan for Portarlington in conjunction with Offaly Loacl Authorities DPS 3 / P24 Reinforce the retail role of Portarlington as a Key Service Town whose role is to support Tullamore (as part of the ATM area) and Portlaoise as the Principal Town Centre

47 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

3.18 SERVICE TOWNS

The Service Towns are so designated, because they are important resources for their hinterlands, providing community and infrastructural facilities and services and the population base to maintain them. These towns perform important retail, residential, service and amenity functions for local, essentially rural hinterland and support the upper tiers of the urban hierarchy, including the principal towns.

Many of these towns have experienced high levels of population growth over the last census period, in some cases without the necessary supporting services. The development of these towns needs to be increasingly aimed at consolidating growth within the service town and better matching it to the development of social and physical infrastructure.

Mountmellick has a role to play in supporting both the principal town of Portlaoise and the Gateway town of Tullamore. Land use planning in Mountmellick is guided by the Mountmellick Local Area Plan 2007-2013.

Graiguecullen is located in the extreme south eastern tip of the County and is heavily linked and connected to Carlow and the adjacent South east region for the majority of its services. Land use planning in Graiguecullen is guided by the Graiguecullen Local Area Plan 2007-2013.

Abbeyleix, Stradbally, Mountrath are also service towns dispersed around the County on the national and road network. These towns are considered appropriate for managed population growth over the plan period, together with employment opportunities, business, industry and tourism and infrastructural development. A limiting factor in the growth of these settlements will be the availability of infrastructure, specifically wastewater treatŵĞŶƚĨĂĐŝůŝƚŝĞƐ͘dŚĞ͞^ŝǆdŽǁŶƐWƌŽũĞĐƚ͟tĂƐƚĞǁĂƚĞƌƐĐŚĞŵĞǁŝůůƉƌŽǀŝĚĞĂŶ upgrade the wastewater treatment plants in the three service towns as indicated above.

Due to their existing and envisaged size, their general structure as medium sized settlements, their range of housing requirements and their urban character, town plans which include statutory zoning of particular land for particular purposes are included in Volume 2 of this Plan. Provision is also made for phasing of zoning within these town plans i.e. more land zoned than necessary to allow for non release of lands for development over the plan period.

48 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

It is the policy of the Council to DPS 3 / P25 Direct population growth in line within the settlement hierarchy; DPS 3 / P26 Promote densities on average 12 per ha (higher densities will be considered at appropriate locations ʹ particularly in town centre locations subject to good urban design and proximity to public transport facilities) having regard to Sustainable Residential Developments in Urban Areas (2009) ensure that any plan or project associated with the provision of new housing which has the potential to significantly affect a Natura 2000 site is appropriately assessed in accordance with Article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of the site.; DPS 3 / P27 Ensure that population growth is appropriate in pace and scale and diversity of uses and services within its identified role in the settlement hierarchy.

3.19 LOCAL SERVICE TOWNS

Local service towns are remote from the linked gateway and principal towns of the region. However they have an important role to play in performing local residential, retailing, social and leisure functions and providing appropriate local services to a wider rural hinterland. They have attractive streetscapes, physical settings and heritage buildings that present a strong visual character.

Rathdowney has been established as a Local Service Town which provides a lower range of services and facilities for the population of the immediately surrounding hinterland. It is a focus for social interaction in the west of the County, and provides linkages to the smaller settlement nodes in its districts. A limiting factor in the growth of these settlements will be the availability of infrastructure, specifically wastewater ƚƌĞĂƚŵĞŶƚ ĨĂĐŝůŝƚŝĞƐ͘ dŚĞ ͞^ŝǆ dŽǁŶƐ WƌŽũĞĐƚ͟ tĂƐƚĞǁĂƚĞƌ ƐĐŚĞŵĞ ǁŝůů ƉƌŽǀŝĚĞ ĂŶĚ ƵƉŐƌĂĚĞ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ wastewater treatment plant in the local service town of Rathdowney.

Durrow has also been identified as a Local Service Town which provides a lower range of services and facilities for the population of the immediately surrounding hinterland. It is a focus for social interaction in the south of the County, and provides linkages to the smaller settlement nodes in its districts. A limiting factor in the growth of these settlements will be the availability of infrastructure, specifically wastewater ƚƌĞĂƚŵĞŶƚĨĂĐŝůŝƚŝĞƐ͘dŚĞ͞^ŝǆdŽǁŶƐWƌŽũĞĐƚ͟tĂƐƚĞǁĂƚĞƌƐĐŚĞŵĞǁŝůůƉƌŽǀŝĚĞĂŶƵƉŐƌĂĚe the wastewater treatment plant in the local service town of Durrow.

Due to their existing and envisaged size, their general structure as small country settlements, their range of housing requirements and their semi urban character, their plans include statutory zoning of particular land for particular purposes. Provision is also made for phasing of zoning within these settlement plans i.e. more land zoned than necessary to allow for non release of lands for development over the plan period.

49 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

It is the policy of the Council to DPS 3 / P28 Conserve, enhance and strengthen the local service town structure within County Laois ensuring that the appropriate scale of growth is supported; DPS 3 / P29 Manage population growth through the development management process; DPS 3 / P30 Promote densities, relative to the scale of the settlement, located as near as is practicable to the town centre area, higher densities will be considered at appropriate locations ʹ particularly in town centre locations, subject to good urban design and proximity to public transport facilities having regard to Sustainable Residential Developments in Urban Areas 2009; ensure that any plan or project associated with the provision of new housing which has the potential to significantly affect a Natura 2000 site is appropriately assessed in accordance with Article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of the site.

3.20 VILLAGES >400 POPULATION

These settlements have experienced growth during the last census period 2002-2006. They have an important role to play in performing local residential, retailing, social and leisure functions and providing appropriate local services to a wider rural hinterland. They have attractive streetscapes, physical settings and heritage buildings that present a strong visual character.

These villages provide opportunities for future expansion/ provision of services such as community centres, local shop, pub, petrol outlet etc and have the potential to attract a population seeking to live in a rural environment. Development growth should be low density, relative to the scale of the settlement, located as near as is practicable to the core area. Due to their existing and envisaged size, their general structure as small country settlements, their range of housing requirements and their semi urban character, their plans include statutory zoning of particular land for particular purposes.

Provision is also made for phasing of zoning within these settlement plans i.e. more land zoned than necessary to allow for non release of lands for development over the plan period. Borris in Ossory, Ballylinan, Ballinakill and Clonaslee are villages that have experienced such growth during the last plan period.

50 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

It is the policy of the Council to DPS 3 / P31 Direct population growth in keeping with the settlement strategy; DPS 3 / P32 Conserve and enhance and strengthen villages > 400 population; DPS 3 / P33 Encourage the provision of social and community uses within villages > 400 population that sustain the population; DPS 3 / P34 Promote densities, relative to the scale of the settlement, located as near as is practicable to the village centre area having regard to Sustainable Residential Developments in Urban Areas (2009).Ensure that any plan or project associated with the provision of new housing which has the potential to significantly affect a Natura 2000 site is appropriately assessed in accordance with Article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of the site.

3.21 VILLAGES < 400 POPULATION

These areas have a limited service base and are to a large extent founded on the local primary school catchment area. These villages provide opportunities for future expansion/ provision of services such as community centres, local shop, pub, petrol outlet etc and have the potential to attract a population seeking to live in a rural environment. Development growth should be low density, relative to the scale of the settlement, located as near as is practicable to the core area.

It is the policy of the Council to DPS 3 / P35 Conserve and enhance and strengthen villages < 400 population; DPS 3 / P36 Direct population growth in line with settlement strategy; DPS 3 / P37 Encourage the provision of social and community uses within villages < 400 population that sustain the population; DPS 3 / P38 Promote densities, relative to the scale of the settlement, located as near as is practicable to the village centre area having regard to Sustainable Residential Developments in Urban Areas (2009) and Ensure that any plan or project associated with the provision of new housing which has the potential to significantly affect a Natura 2000 site is appropriately assessed in accordance with Article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of the site.

51 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

3.22 RURAL SETTLEMENTS

These settlements are very small, sometimes embryonic rural settlements with a very small amount of development to date. These settlements are defined by their loose gathering of one off houses and some public services dispersed within the settlement such as a church, school, shop or playing pitch. dŚĞƐĞƐĞƚƚůĞŵĞŶƚƐƐŽŵĞƚŝŵĞƐĂŵŽƵŶƚƚŽŶŽŵŽƌĞƚŚĂŶĚĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚĂƚĂ͞ĐƌŽƐƐƌŽĂĚƐ͘͟,ŽǁĞǀĞƌŐŝǀĞŶƚŚĞ existence of a strong community infrastructure, this type of settlement can be augmented by small scale development ĂƐĂŶĂůƚĞƌŶĂƚŝǀĞƚŽƐƉŽƌĂĚŝĐ͞ŽŶĞŽĨĨ͟ŚŽƵƐŝŶŐŝŶƚŚĞĐŽƵŶƚƌǇƐŝĚĞ͘ĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚǁŝƚŚŝŶƚŚĞƐĞ settlements will be such that it is in character with the existing scale of development.

It is the policy of the Council to DPS 3 / P39 Conserve and enhance and strengthen rural settlements where there is an existing social infrastructure network and ensure that any plan or project associated with the provision of new housing in rural settlements which has the potential to significantly affect a Natura 2000 site is appropriately assessed in accordance with Article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of the site.; DPS 3 / P40 Manage population growth through the development management process

3.23 OPEN COUNTRYSIDE

Open ĐŽƵŶƚƌǇƐŝĚĞ ŝƐ Ăůů ůĂŶĚƐ ŽƵƚƐŝĚĞ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ƐĞƚƚůĞŵĞŶƚƐ ĂƐ ŝĚĞŶƚŝĨŝĞĚ ĂďŽǀĞ͘ dŚĞ ŽƵŶĐŝů͛Ɛ ƌƵƌĂů development strategy is based on promoting sustainable rural development aimed at maintaining vibrant and viable rural communities while also seeking to protect the amenity, recreational and heritage value of the rural landscapes and countryside of the County.

The planning authority recognises that the continued trend towards single houses in the open countryside needs to be managed as it has implications for the key rural resources of agricultural land, water quality, landscape, heritage and road networks as well as undermining the growth and use of existing services and facilities in the towns and villages. In addition the proliferation of one-off rural houses does not strengthen rural communities in the long term. The strengthening of rural communities can only be achieved in the long term through making settlements more attractive places to live and providing employment opportunities.

52 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

To this end the Planning Authority will favour appropriate development within the designated villages and settlements over urban generated rural housing.

The Council recognises and accepts the importance of rural housing in meeting local housing needs and in sustaining rural services such as primary schools, post offices and village shops. The Council also accepts the genuine desire of people who are born and raised in the countryside who wish to reside within their own community. Having regard to national guidelines and research and analysis of trends throughout the ŽƵŶƚǇ͕ ƚŚĞ ŽƵŶĐŝů ǁŝůů ĞŶĚĞĂǀŽƵƌ ƚŽ ĂĐĐŽŵŵŽĚĂƚĞ ͚ƌƵƌĂů ŐĞŶĞƌĂƚĞĚ ŚŽƵƐŝŶŐ͛ ŝŶ Ăůů ĂƌĞĂƐ ǁŚŝůƐƚ recognising the need to protect certain rural areas from urban generated development.

3.24 RURAL HOUSING STRATEGY

Laois CountǇŽƵŶĐŝů͛ƐƌƵƌĂůŚŽƵƐŝŶŐƉŽůŝĐǇŚĂƐŚĂĚĐĂƌĞĨƵůƌĞŐĂƌĚƚŽŶĂƚŝŽŶĂůĂĚǀŝĐĞĂŶĚŐƵŝĚĞůŝŶĞƐĂƐƐĞƚ out in the National Spatial Strategy, 2002 and Sustainable Rural Housing Guidelines for Planning Authorities, 2005 and also including the Habitats Directive with regard to Appropriate Assessment and recent flooding guidelines 2009. dŚĞŽƵŶĐŝů͛ƐƌƵƌĂůĚĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚƐƚƌĂƚĞŐǇŝƐďĂƐĞĚŽŶƉƌŽŵŽƚŝŶŐƐƵƐƚĂŝŶĂďůĞƌƵƌĂůĚĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚĂŝŵĞĚĂƚ maintaining vibrant and viable rural communities while also seeking to protect the amenity, recreational and heritage value of the rural landscapes and countryside of the County.

The implementation of the settlement strategy, as set out in Chapter 4 - Settlement and the conservation and protection measures in Chapter 12: Environment are considered to be essential towards achieving this aim. The designation of settlements for development enables the Council to promote the strengthening of villages and settlements and to provide for the development of rural communities.

The approach taken towards the accommodation of residential development in the countryside has been twofold. In the first instance small scale settlements were identified. These are small scale settlements or small villages with an established identity that were considered suitable for the development of small scale housing schemes and/or single dwelling houses.

The second part of the approach was to determine the capacity of the countryside to absorb one-off housing having regard to issues in terms of environmental sensitivity, population trends, vacancy rates and the existing level of development in the area. In this regard the following actions were taken:

x Environmentally sensitive areas including; ʹ Special Areas of Conservation, Natural Heritage Areas, Special Protection Areas, Scenic Areas , vulnerable aquifers and surface waters (due to the risk of contamination from septic tanks). x Population trends have been mapped in terms of each District Electoral Division (DED). The period taken was from 1996 to 2006. x Local areas within each DED that are clearly under significant development pressure e.g. north-east County Laois, the environs of the main urban settlements.

In County Laois the following three rural housing area designations apply (See Map 1.3.8): x Areas under Strong Urban Influence, x Stronger Rural Areas and x Structurally Weak Areas.

The policy in relation to rural housing was, in certain areas, based on the local need factor which required applicants to demonstrate that they were functionally or socially related to the rural community in which

53 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017 the proposed site was located. Other areas, where population stagnation or decline has been occurring, were not subject to housing need to the same extent or at all.

A total of 2,353 single rural houses were permitted over the six year period 2004-2009. Whilst the Council acknowledges the role of rural housing in sustaining rural communities, it also recognises that uncontrolled and excessive one-off urban generated housing in the countryside is not sustainable in the long-term and measures need to be put in place to regulate this form of development.

ĐŽŶĐĞƌŶĂƌŝƐĞƐƚŚĂƚŝĨ͚ŽŶĞ-ŽĨĨƌƵƌĂůŚŽƵƐŝŶŐ͛ŝƐƉĞƌŵŝƚƚĞĚĂƚƚŚĞĐƵƌƌĞŶƚůĞǀĞůƐ͕ƚŚĞŶŝƌƌĞƉĂƌĂďůĞĚĂŵĂŐĞ will be done to the environment including water quality and landscape character and the legitimate aspirations of those brought up in the countryside to continue to live within their own communities is likely to be jeopardized.

One-off housing refers to individually designed, detached houses primarily located on large un-serviced ƐŝƚĞƐ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ŽƉĞŶ ĐŽƵŶƚƌǇƐŝĚĞ͘ dŚĞ ŽǀĞƌƌŝĚŝŶŐ Ăŝŵ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ŽƵŶĐŝů͛Ɛ ĂƉƉƌŽĂĐŚ ƚŽ ŽŶĞ-off houses in the countryside is guided by the DOEHLG Sustainable Rural Housing Guidelines (2005).

This approach seeks to accommodate within rural areas, people who are functionally or socially part of the rural community and to resist demand for urban generated housing in the countryside. The following policies should be take account of Policy TT10/P08 relating to the avoidance of access or intensification of access to national roads.

3.24.1 Rural Area Types

In accordance with the NSS and Sustainable Rural Housing Guidelines for Planning Authorities (April 2005), the County has been divided into different rural area types based on different development demands and needs. These areas are described below and the extent of each is shown on the Rural Settlement Strategy Map.

54 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

Table 13 Rural Area Designations

RURAL AREA DEFINITION CRITERIA DESIGNATION Rural Areas Under Those rural areas within easy It is an objective to recognise the individual Strong Urban commuting distance of the main urban housing needs of people intrinsic to the Influence centres in County Laois and adjacent rural areas located within the areas counties including the Greater Dublin ĚĞĨŝŶĞĚĂƐ͚ƌƵƌĂůĂƌĞĂƐƵŶĚĞƌƐƚƌŽŶŐƵƌďĂŶ Area (GDA) which are experiencing ŝŶĨůƵĞŶĐĞ͛͘ ^ƵĐŚ ŶĞĞĚƐ ŵĂǇ ďe pressure from the development of accommodated on lands within the rural urban generated housing in the open area under strong urban influence, subject countryside. These areas are:- to the availability of a suitable site and normal proper planning, environmental The north and eastern areas in x and sustainable development criteria the County

x km buffer zones around the It is an objective of the Council only to Principal town, Key service permit single houses in the area under Town and Service Towns of strong urban influence to facilitate those Graiguecullen and with a local rural housing need2 in the area, Mountmellick in particular those that have lived in an

x National, Strategic Regional rural area. Routes and Regional Routes as defined in chapter 11 In order to demonstrate a genuine rural 3.24.2 housing need, any of the following criteria Continued high levels of single rural shall be met: houses in these locations would inhibit ƚŚĞŐƌŽǁƚŚŽĨƚŚĞŽƵŶƚǇ͛ƐƵƌďĂŶĂƌĞĂƐ (a the application is being made by a long which would result in a failure to term landowner or his/her son or daughter achieve the growth targets. It would also seeking to build their first home on the cause further deterioration of rural family lands; or amenities. (b) the applicant is engaged in working the 3.24.3 family farm and the house is for that The key development plan objectives in persons own use; or these areas seeks to facilitate the genuine housing requirements of the (c) the applicant is working in rural rural community as identified by the activities3 and for this reason needs to be planning authority in the light of local accommodated near their place of work; conditions while on the other hand or directing urban generated development to areas zoned for new housing (d) the application is being made by a local development in towns and villages. rural person(s) who have spent a substantial period of their life (minimum 10 years) living in the local rural area, and, who for family and/or work reasons need to live in the rural area.

2ŶĂƉƉůŝĐĂŶƚǁŚŽƐĂƚŝƐĨŝĞƐĂ͚>ŽĐĂůZƵƌĂů,ŽƵƐŝŶŐEĞĞĚ͛ iƐĚĞĨŝŶĞĚĂƐĂƉĞƌƐŽŶǁŚŽĚŽĞƐŶŽƚŽƌŚĂƐŶĞǀĞƌŽǁŶĞĚĂŚŽƵƐĞŝŶƚŚĞ͚ůŽĐĂůƌƵƌĂůĂƌĞĂ͛ and has the need for a permanent dwelling for their own use in the rural area. 3 Such rural activities will normally encompass persons involved in full time farming, forestry, inland waterways or marine related occupations as well as part time occupations where the predominant occupation is farming/ natural resource related. Such circumstances could also encompass persons whose work is intrinsically linked to rural areas such as teachers in rural schools or other persons whose work predominantly takes place in rural areas.

55 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

RURAL AREA DEFINITION CRITERIA DESIGNATION Strong Rural Areas The rural areas that traditionally have It is an objective to recognise the individual had a strong agricultural base, that are housing needs of people intrinsic to the 3.24.4 restructuring to cope with changes in rural area located within the rural areas the agricultural sector and have an defined as strong rural areas. extensive network of smaller rural towns, villages and other settlements. In It is an objective of the Council to permit these areas, the focus of urban single houses in the strong rural areas to generated housing should be in the facilitate those with a rural housing need in network of settlements to support the the area. development of services and In order to demonstrate a rural housing infrastructure and to take pressure off need, any of the following criteria should development in the open countryside. be met:

(a) the application is being made by a long term landowner or his/her son or daughter seeking to build their first home on the family lands; or

(b) the applicant is working in rural activities and for this reason needs to be accommodated near their place of work; or

(c) the application is being made by a local rural person(s)4 who for family and/or work reasons wish to live in the local rural area in which they have spent a substantial period of their lives (minimum 5 years) and are seeking to build their first home in the local rural area5. Structurally Weak The rural areas generally exhibit To help stem decline and strengthen Rural Areas characteristics such as persistent and structurally weak areas, it is an objective of significant population decline as well as the Council that in general, any demand a weaker economic structure based on for permanent residential development indices of income, employment and should be accommodated, subject to economic growth. These rural areas are meeting normal planning and more distant from the major urban environmental criteria. areas and the associated pressure from urban generated housing.

The Council recognizes the needs of local rural people who wish to live or work in the area in which they grew up. The following 3 criteria arise in assessing applicants under this category: x dŚĞĂƉƉůŝĐĂŶƚŵƵƐƚĐŽŵĞǁŝƚŚŝŶƚŚĞĚĞĨŝŶŝƚŝŽŶŽĨĂ͚>ŽĐĂůZƵƌĂůWĞƌƐŽŶ͛

4͚>ŽĐĂůZƵƌĂůWĞƌƐŽŶ͛ is a person who is living or has lived in the local rural area for a minimum of 5 years prior to making the planning application except for a local rural person living within areas of strong urban influence, in which case the qualifying criterion is 10 years 5 dŚĞ͚>ŽĐĂůZƵƌĂůƌĞĂ͛ for the purpose of this policy is defined as the area generally within a 10km ƌĂĚŝƵƐŽĨƚŚĞĂƉƉůŝĐĂŶƚ͛ƐĨĂŵŝůǇ home.

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x dŚĞƉƌŽƉŽƐĞĚƐŝƚĞŵƵƐƚďĞƐŝƚƵĂƚĞĚǁŝƚŚŝŶƚŚĞŝƌ͚>ŽĐĂůZƵƌĂůƌĞĂ͛ x dŚĞĂƉƉůŝĐĂŶƚŵƵƐƚŚĂǀĞĂ͚>ŽĐĂůZƵƌĂů,ŽƵƐŝŶŐEĞĞĚ͛

Housing in the Countryside It is a policy of the Council to DPS 3 / P41 WƌŽǀŝĚĞĨŽƌƐƵƐƚĂŝŶĂďůĞƌƵƌĂůŚŽƵƐŝŶŐŝŶƚŚĞŽƵŶƚǇŝŶĂĐĐŽƌĚĂŶĐĞǁŝƚŚƚŚĞ͚^ƵƐƚĂŝŶĂďůĞZƵƌĂů ,ŽƵƐŝŶŐ͛ ŐƵŝĚĞůŝŶĞƐ ŝƐƐƵĞĚ ďǇ ƚŚĞ Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, EPA Code of Practice in relation to wastewater treatment (2009) and ensure that any plan or project associated with the provision of new housing which has the potential to significantly affect a Natura 2000 site is appropriately assessed in accordance with Article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of the site.; DPS 3 / P42 ŶƐƵƌĞƚŚĂƚƚŚĞƉƌŽǀŝƐŝŽŶŽĨƌƵƌĂůŚŽƵƐŝŶŐǁŝůůŶŽƚĚĞƚƌĂĐƚĨƌŽŵƚŚĞŽƵŶƚǇ͛Ɛnatural and built heritage, economic assets and environment and the planning authority will have regard to the relevant development plan objectives. DPS 3 / P43 Apply a presumption in favour of granting planning permissions to applicants for rural generated housing where the qualifying criteria set down in objectives are met and where standards in relation to siting, design, drainage and traffic safety set down in the Plan are achieved. DPS 3 / P44 Encourage the retention and sympathetic refurbishment, with adaptation if necessary, of traditional dwellings in the countryside in sympathy with the character of the existing building in preference to their replacement Planning permission will only be granted for replacement of a dwelling where it is demonstrated that it is not reasonably capable of being made structurally sound or otherwise improved, where the building is not of architectural merit. In this instance consideration will be given to the replacement of an existing dwelling with a new dwelling at the same location, subject to appropriate design, scale of building and normal planning considerations. Local rural housing need shall not apply in this instance.. DPS 3 / P45 Facilitate the provision of accommodation for older people and dependant relatives attached to the existing family home subject to compliance with the following criteria:

x be attached to the existing dwelling, x be linked internally with the existing dwelling x not have a separate access provided to the front elevation of the dwelling x be of appropriate size and design x be capable of being served by adequate foul drainage facilities DPS 3 / P46 Promote good rural design through the implementation of rural house design guidelines prepared by Laois County Council; DPS 3 / P47 Outside the settlements which are zoned and designated in the County settlement Strategy, all proposed development which is vulnerable to flooding and is located in flood zones A and B must pass the development management justification test.

57 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

Map 1.3.1:

58 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

59 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

60 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

61 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

4 HOUSING STRATEGY

Core aim To facilitate the provision of housing in a range of locations ƚŽŵĞĞƚƚŚĞŶĞĞĚƐŽĨƚŚĞĐŽƵŶƚǇ͛Ɛ population, with particular emphasis on facilitating access to housing to suit different household and tenure needs in a sustainable manner;

4.1 INTRODUCTION

Whilst reflective of changing social and economic patterns, housing provision and location must aim at achieving sustainable development, well structured communities, maximise the use of infrastructural investment and facilitate human choice and aspiration. In the National Anti Poverty Strategy (NAPS), access to housing is one of the key elements for fighting social exclusion and marginalisation and thereby assisting in the fight against poverty. The Council recognise the aims of NAPS and in partnership with the Voluntary and Community Sectors and through their function as a housing authority are committed to the development of a sustainable housing policy which will counteract social exclusion and marginalisation.

4.2 SOCIAL INCLUSION

The National Anti Poverty Strategy 1997-2007 (NAPS) provides a framework for anti poverty initiatives within local authorities and its implementation enhances the work that local authorities already carry out. dŚĞŵĂŝŶŽďũĞĐƚŝǀĞŽĨEW^ŝƐ͞ƚŽƌĞĚƵĐĞƐƵďƐƚantially and ideally eliminate poverty in Ireland and to build ĂƐŽĐŝĂůůǇŝŶĐůƵƐŝǀĞƐŽĐŝĞƚǇ͘͟dĂĐŬůŝŶŐƚŚŝƐŽďũĞĐƚŝǀĞǁŝůůƌĞƋƵŝƌĞĂŵƵůƚŝƐĞĐƚŽƌĂů- multi policy approach. The overall policy approach is to: x Sustain economic growth and employment; x Provide levels of income support to those relying on social welfare sufficient to sustain dignity and avoid poverty, while facilitating participation in employment and escape from welfare; x Address the needs of groups at high risk of poverty with specific needs; x Provide high quality public services to all; x Tackle the vicious cycle of intergenerational transmission of poverty; x Support disadvantaged communities.

Laois County Council has put in place a number of measures to support the mainstreaming of social inclusion in order to ensure that social inclusion is reflected as a core value in Plans and programmes and policies of the organisation and in service delivery.

62 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

It is the policy of the Council to HS 4 / P01 Encourage and facilitate participation by a wide selection of groups and interests in the preparation of Local Area Plans, framework Plans and other projects; HS 4 / P02 Facilitate and encouraging balanced economic development in a range of appropriate locations, through providing and promoting a variety of housing options, support services, Community Facilities and improvements to Recreational Amenities; HS 4 / P03 Work with various voluntary, community and public interest groups to improve access to education and Improved Public Transport and Accessibility; HS 4 / P04 Counteract undue social segregation in the housing market; HS 4 / P05 promote estate management. HS 4 / P06 Raise awareness of the challenges of peak oil, climate change and economic contraction with a view to empowering communities to plan a transition to a lower carbon community HS 4 / P07 Support and nurture intergenerational and cross cultural relationships through the development of community initiatives such as community gardens / allotments

4.3 HOUSING STRATEGY 2011-2017

The Housing Strategy 2011-2017 (See Appendix 3)has been prepared by Laois County Council and the National Building Agency Ltd in accordance with the requirements of Part V of the Planning and Development Act, 2000 -2010 as amended by the Planning and Development (Amendment) Act, 2002 (herein referred to as the Act). In accordance with the legislative requirements, this Housing Strategy will form part of the Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017 (herein referred to as the Development Plan). It is an update of the County Laois Housing Strategy 2006-2012.

Section 38 of the Planning and Development Act 2010 amends section 96 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 to ensure that delivery options available under Part V fully reflect the wider restructuring of the social housing investment programme. In addition to the various options under Part V as outlined above, Authorities will be able to take houses on a temporary basis either under the Rent Assistance scheme or the long term leasing initiative.

In considering these details, the Planning Authority must consider each of the following: x Whether such an agreement will contribute effectively and efficiently to the achievement of the objectives of the Housing Strategy; x Whether such an agreement will constitute the best use of resources; x The need to counteract undue segregation in housing between persons of different social background in the area of the authority; x Whether such an agreement is in accordance with the provisions of the Development Plan; x The timeframe within which housing is likely to be provided.

Part V of the Act applies to all applicants for residential developments on sites in excess of 0.1 hectares or 4 units on residential/mixed use zoned land. The decision on the transfer of sites or houses in lieu of land or such other compliance as specified in the Act is a matter for negotiation between the developer and the Planning authority and is subject to agreement between the two parties

63 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

4.3.1 Structure of the Document

The aim of this Strategy is to set out how Laois County Council will meet the housing needs of existing and future populations of the County within the Development Plan period. Despite the sharp decline in housing demand being experienced in Ireland at present, this document follows the DoEHLG Model Housing Strategy Guidelines (2000) for the preparation of a Housing Strategy as it is statutorily obliged to do so.

The key elements of the Housing Strategy are summarized as follows: The total estimated demand for housing between 2011-2017 is 4,167 units and it is estimated that 12% of households (645) will meet eligibility criteria for affordability as defined in section 93(1) in the Act.

In relation to the supply of housing, 770 house units are targeted under the social leasing programme. Traditionally the needs of the lower income groups have typically been met in the past by the local authority social housing programme, and to a more limited extent by the community and voluntary sector. It is anticipate that no capital funding will be available over the period of the housing strategy for the building of social and affordable housing. The mechanism of delivering/fulfilling social housing needs will predominantly be through Social Leasing (either existing council stock or existing private stock) and the refurbishment and re-letting of existing council stock. The combined list of the local authorities at present is 1,739. Should the target of 770 units be achieved, it would satisfy the housing needs over the housing strategy period and also reduce the numbers on the housing list.

Due to the economic downturn and number of housing units that remain either complete and vacant or unfinished across the County, it is difficult to estimate the significance of Part V unit that might be delivered in the County over the period of the Housing Strategy.

4.4 HOUSING POLICY

The Council will continue to meet social and affordable housing needs in all the towns and villages throughout the County in a balanced way and avoiding over concentration in any one area. The Council will place emphasis on providing high quality, well designed schemes appropriate to the character of the area. The Council recognises the important role played by the Voluntary Sector in meeting social housing need and will support and facilitate the expansion of that role as appropriate. It is a key Government Objective to "enable every household to have available an affordable dwelling of good quality, suited to its needs, in a good environment and as far as possible at the tenure of its choice".

Programme for Local Authority Provision x There is a four year multi annual housing provision Plan for the period 2009-2013 in place. Social housing is provided through the following measures: x New build on existing County Council owned land; x Purchase of second hand houses; x Turnkey schemes; x Infill schemes in existing estates; x Development of derelict sites; x Development of brownfield sites; x Development in conjunction with other housing agencies; x Social leasing arrangements; x Part V acquisitions

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4.4.1 UNFINISHED HOUSING ESTATES

The National Housing Development survey mĞƚŚŽĚŽůŽŐǇƵƐĞĚƚŚĞĞƉĂƌƚŵĞŶƚ͛ƐĞǆŝƐƚŝŶŐŬŶŽǁůĞĚŐĞŽĨŚŽƵƐŝŶŐ construction sites across the country and was developed on the basis of a pilot study carried out in County Laois. The survey focused on the:

o Location of the development (including GIS data to map each development); o Number of originally approved housing units in the development; o Construction status of each dwelling (either completed and occupied, completed and vacant; o dwelling at a number of stages of construction or dwelling not commenced) o · Service and amenity status of the development with regard to completion of roads, footpaths,street lighting, water services and open spaces; and o · Activity levels on sites.

The key survey results for County Laois include the following:

70 developments have been inspected, of which building activity was ongoing on 6 sites at the time of the survey; 6464 dwellings have been estimated as being approved on the sites above; 2403 dwellings are complete and occupied; 636 dwellings are complete and vacant; 309 x dwellings are near complete, (e.g. units are watertight but require fitting out or x connection to services to ready them for sale); and

506 dwellings are at various early stages of construction activity from site clearance,foundations up to wall plate level; and

2607 dwellings have not been commenced.

4.4.2 Balanced Communities Ȃ Providing for a mix of house types, sizes and tenure

It is an objective of the Council to ensure that a mixture of house types and sizes are provided in each residential development. House design and layout reflect the requirements of different categories of households around the County- particularly those with special needs. An indication of house types required ĨŽƌƐŽĐŝĂůŚŽƵƐŝŶŐŝƐĂǀĂŝůĂďůĞǁŝƚŚƚŚĞƚƌŝĞŶŶŝĂů͞ƐƐĞƐƐŵĞŶƚŽĨEĞĞĚ͟ƵŶĚĞƌƚĂŬĞŶďǇƚŚĞ,ŽƵƐŝŶŐ^ĞĐƚŝŽŶ of Laois County Council.

4.4.3 Housing and Estate Management

The Estate Management Section helps establish and supports residents associations, meets with the residents associations, holds pre tenancy courses, holds summer camps for children of local authority estates. The Estate Management Section also offers grants to assist residents associations in the development of their estates.

4.4.4 Homeless Persons

Where possible Laois County Council will actively promote integrated social housing solutions including Accommodation provision to relieve the problem of homelessness (as defined in the Housing Act 1988) and will promote the provisions of the Laois Housing Strategy with regard to provision of housing for Homeless persons.

65 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

Housing Policy It is the policy of the Council to HS 4 / P08 Implement the Laois Housing Strategy 2011-2017 which requires that up to 12% of land zoned for residential developments or for a mix of residential and other uses, is reserved to meet social and affordable housing needs; HS 4 / P09 Ensure that sufficient and suitable land is zoned in the Development Plan for residential use to meet the requirements of the Housing Strategy and to ensure that a scarcity of such land does not occur at any time during the period of the Development Plan ensure that any plan or project associated with the provision of new housing which has the potential to significantly affect a Natura 2000 site is appropriately assessed in accordance with Article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of the site and in compliance with environmental legislation; HS 4 / P10 Make available housing to persons who have different levels of income; HS 4 / P11 Ensure a choice of house types and sizes to cater for all categories of households; HS 4 / P12 Counteract undue segregation in housing between persons of different social background; HS 4 / P13 Promote estate management in all schemes across the County in order to supportthe formation of sustainable communities; HS 4 / P14 Encourage the provision of small scale community facilities in new housing developments e.g. meeting room, community storage facility to allow for shared expenses and a reduction in energy usage; HS 4 / P15 Provide financial resources to the voluntary sector for the effective management of homeless accommodation; HS 4 / P16 Promote targeted provision of accommodation for homeless persons; HS 4 / P17 Audit and assess all local authority housing schemes in the County and determine if any would benefit from a regeneration plan to address problems associated with the physical design and layout, such as lack of natural surveillance, piecemeal provision of open space, excess provision of open space, lack of services and facilities, lack of permeability, isolation, peripherality, etc; HS 4 / P18 Ensure that all houses in the ownership of the Local Authority, which are over 20 years old, are assessed for remedial and/or refurbishment works;

HS 4 / P19 Explore mechanisms to address the issue of incomplete developments through a variety of mechanisms including dialogue with developers, existing/adjoining residents, financial institutions, NAMA, State and Semi-State Agencies; HS 4 / P20 Work in partnership with the voluntary housing bodies to address the social and affordable housing requirements of the County; HS 4 / P21 Encourage developers of privately owned estates, where there are high levels of vacancy, to consider releasing units under the Social Leasing Programme; HS 4 / P22 Ensure that all future housing developments in the County have regard to the development of neighbourhoods and sustainable communities; HS 4 / P23 Ensure that all future housing developments have regard to the provisions of the Statement on Density, Design and Housing Quality, as contained within the County Development Plan;

66 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

HS 4/ P24 Determine future demand for apartments on the basis of the current supply of apartments in the respective towns and/or villages. HS 4/ P25 Raise awareness of the challenges of peak oil, climate change and economic contraction with a view to empowering communities to plan a transition to a lower carbon community HS 4 / P26 Encourage and nurture intergenerational and cross cultural relationships through community initiatives such as community gardens / Allotments HS 4 / P27 Ensure new and refurbished housing is as self sustaining as possible, endeavoring to avoid fossil fuel dependence in light of peak oil and climate change. HS 4 / P28 Investigate the feasibility of district heating systems, local energy solutions like solar or anaerobic digestion and natural water treatment HS 4 / P29 In dealing with such developments to implement the DEHLG Guidance Manual on ͞DĂŶĂŐŝŶŐĂŶĚZĞƐŽůǀŝŶŐ,ŽƵƐĞŝŶŐĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚƐ͘͟dŚŝƐǁŝůůŝŶĐůƵĚĞŵĂŝŶƚĂŝŶŝŶŐĂ dedicated Unfinished Estates Team and continuing to maintain an up to date Register of all Unfinished Estates in County Laois. It also recommends the use of statutory powers available to the Local Authority as a means of resolving outstanding issues. The Planning Authority wŝůůƉƌŽŵŽƚĞƚŚĞĚĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚŽĨ͞^ŝƚĞZĞƐŽůƵƚŝŽŶWůĂŶƐ͟ŝŶǀŽůǀŝŶŐĂůů stakeholders such as developers, financial institutions, receivers, bond companies, HAS and most importantly the residents of the estates.

4.5 ACCOMMODATION FOR TRAVELLERS

The Housing (Traveller Accommodation) Act 1998 placed a statutory obligation on local authorities to prepare and adopt a five-year programme, subject to periodic reviews for the provision of traveller accommodation within their area. Laois County Council provides accommodation in accordance with the 5 year Traveller Accommodation Plan 2009-2013.

>ĂŽŝƐŽƵŶƚǇŽƵŶĐŝů͛ƐƉŽůŝĐǇŝŶƌĞůĂƚŝŽŶƚŽƚŚĞƉƌŽǀŝƐŝŽŶŽĨĂĐĐŽŵŵŽĚĂƚŝŽŶĨŽƌŵĞŵďĞƌƐŽĨƚŚĞƚƌĂǀĞůůŝŶŐ community is based on a partnership approach with members of the settled and travelling communities and elected members and officials.

Traveller Accommodation

It is the policy of the Council to HS 4 / P30 Provide accommodation in accordance with a 5 year traveller Accommodation Plan.

4.6 THE ELDERLY

Laois County Council has been active over recent years in the provision and upgrading of accommodation for the elderly within its housing stock. Voluntary agencies have also had a lead role in providing for this sector of the community with many successful schemes up and running around the County. With an ageing population and increasing demand for housing the elderly, the Council is conscious of the need to increase provision.

67 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

Greater emphasis is now placed on the provision of lifetime adaptable housing, the provision of housing units in centrally located areas where there is access to all amenities such as shops, medical facilities, churches, etc. Provision through sheltered housing schemes is also an option that is encouraged. The special needs of the elderly such as security, medical care, and personal safety, amongst others is fundamental to the adequate provision and locational aspects of accommodation for this group within society.

Provision for the Elderly It is the policy of the Council to HS 4 / P31 Encourage the provision of housing for the elderly in appropriate locations which will facilitate their continued integration in local communities and meet the needs of the aged population; HS 4 / P32 Meet the needs of the elderly by providing accommodation in central, convenient and easily accessible locations to facilitate independent living where possible; HS 4 / P33 Encourage a range of housing types in town centre and village centre locations; HS 4 / P34 Encourage the provision of smaller dwelling units in new housing developments to allow for lifestyle transition; HS 4 / P35 Encourage the provision of lifetime adaptable housing in order to ensure that people have the choice to stay in their own homes; HS 4 / P36 Provide appropriate transport points adjacent to accommodation for older people.

4.7 PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

The Voluntary Housing sector and other agencies are active in the County in terms of identifying and meeting the needs of those with disabilities. The County Council is working in partnership with various voluntary sector groups and associations to facilitate further identification of needs and provision of housing for those with disabilities. The housing needs of those on waiting lists and existing tenants with disabilities are generally being met through the Disabled Persons Grants Scheme which provides financial assistance for the adaption of accommodation. The Voluntary sector also caters for these needs.

The concept of Lifetime adaptable housing will be applied to all new housing so that all new housing is easily adaptable without undue expense or works to the original house design.

Provision for People with Disabilities It is the policy of the Council to HS 4 / P37 Provide for the housing needs of those with disabilities through the provision or adaption of appropriate accommodation; HS 4 / P38 Work with the voluntary sector in the identification and provision of special needs housing for those with disabilities; HS 4 / P39 Ensure that developments provide appropriate public transport points adjacent to accommodation for people with disabilities.

Laois County Council recognises the need to promote better awareness of people with disabilities. These ƉƌŝŶĐŝƉůĞƐĂƌĞĞŶƐŚƌŝŶĞĚŝŶƚŚĞĞĐůĂƌĂƚŝŽŶ͞dŚĞŝƚǇĂŶĚƚŚĞŝƐĂďůĞĚ͟ƐŝŐŶĞĚŝŶĂƌĐĞůŽŶĂŝŶDĂƌĐŚϭϵϵϱ͘

68 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

It is the policy of the Council to HS 4 / P40 Develop a process for the implementation of the Barcelona Declaration so as to ensure its effective implementation across the County in both existing services and new developments; HS 4 / P41 Ensure that particular consideration shall be given to access for all people.

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5 SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE

Core aim To facilitate the provision of and improvement to social and recreational infrastructure and to provide access to new and existing community and social facilities throughout the county for all citizens;

5.1 INTRODUCTION

This section considers the provision of social infrastructure in County Laois and incorporates the following sections dealing with the various aspects of social and community infrastructure provision including:- x Community facilities x Education x Childcare x Healthcare x Libraries x Arts and Culture x Cemeteries x Fire Services

5.2 COMMUNITY FACILITIES

Building strong, inclusive communities is an integral component to achieving sustainable development objectives. Apart from housing and employment opportunities, sustainable communities require the provision of and access to a myriad of support infrastructure in the areas of education, childcare, health and community support services, recreational and leisure facilities and a good quality built environment. Communities also require opportunities to meet, interact and form bonds, all essential prerequisites to the evolution of a sense of place and belonging.

Laois Community Forum addresses the need for creating sustainable communities within County Laois. The importance of community development and development of facilities for community/voluntary groups to meet and work on their various activities in the areas of arts, sports, economic or community initiatives is essential in improving the quality of life of the residents in our County. This is vital in helping to attract economic investment to a local area, promoting tourism, providing community childcare, care for the elderly and/or the rurally isolated in our community.

5.3 EDUCATION

The Central Statistics Office(CSO) and Department of Education and Science projections indicate that birth rates will remain relatively high for the foreseeable future at least, resulting in a growing percentage of those in the standard school-going age cohorts of 0-18. This in turn has implications for provision of childcare facilities and primary and secondary level schools infrastructure. In terms of adult education, it is

70 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017 necessary to develop a co-ordinated strategy in conjunction with Laois VEC, FAS, IPA and other related bodies to increase service provision in this key sector across the County.

With the rising costs of pesticides, fertilizers, fuel, food and imports among other things we will have different employment requirements in the future and education has to reflect that. The area of organic food production will feature greatly in a shift from fossil fuel so reskilling in organic farming and production of complimentary products such as natural chemicals and medicine will be prominent.

Education It is the policy of the Council to

SI 5 / P01 Ensure that existing school sites are protected for educational use and lands adjacent to existing schools are protected for future educational use to allow for expansion of these schools, if required, subject to site suitability and agreement of school management and ensure that any plan or project associated with the expansion of existing developments which has the potential to significantly effect a Natura 2000 site is assessed in accordance with article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of that site; S1 5 / P02 Facilitate the development of primary, second-level, third-level outreach, vocational and lifelong learning facilities and digital capacity for distance learning including fourth level education, lifelong learning and Up-skilling generally to meet the needs of the County including mature adults i.e. back to school in existing educational infrastructure; S1 5 / P03 Ensure the provision and implementation of primary and secondary education facilities in concert with the Planning and sustainable development of residential areas in order to maximise the opportunities for use of walking, cycling and use of public transport; S1 5 / P04 Ensure that adequate lands and services are zoned and reserved to cater for the establishment, improvement or expansion of primary and post-primary educational facilities in the County. The Council supports the concept of multi-campus educational facilities.Ensure that adequate services such as water supply and wastewater treatment are in place prior to development taking place SI 5 / P05 Ensure new and refurbished buildings are as self sustaining as possible, endeavoring to avoid fossil fuel dependence in light of peak oil and climate change. S1 5 / P06 Co-operate with the County Development Board within the lifetime of the Plan in the preparation of an integrated County strategy for education and skills focussing in particular on strengthening competence in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) subjects and developing entrepreneurial skills, innovation skills, leadership skills, sales and marketing skills and language skills to underpin the future economic development of the County which will address the issues on Social support and offer encouragement for children dropping out of school within the lifetime of the plan.

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S1 5/ P07 Encourage, support and develop opportunities to open up new and existing schools to wider community use; S1 5/ P08 Co operate with the Department of Education & Science in the necessary provision of primary and post primary educational facilities throughout the County by reserving lands for such uses in the respective Local Area Plans and settlement Plans where necessary;SI5 / P09... Collaborate with communities to establish the educational needs as they arise with the adaptation to a lower energy society. SI 5 / P10 Facilitate new educational needs to stimulate understanding and innovation of natural power sources as a prerequisite essential to facilitating industry. SI 5 / P11 Collaborate with communities to establish the educational needs as they arise with the adaptation to lower energy society.

5.4 CHILDCARE

In view of these trends and to avoid unnecessary duplication or displacement of existing services, Laois County Childcare Committee recommends that a more flexible approach be taken towards the national recommendation of 1:75 and that future residential applications be assessed more on a case by case basis having regard to the socio-economic profile and level of infrastructure already available or approved in a given area. It also favours greater levels of consultation between itself, the Council and prospective developers.

Childcare It is the policy of the Council to S1 5 / P12 Encourage, promote and facilitate the provision of childcare facilities in accordance with national policy and the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government Planning Guidelines on Childcare Facilities. S1 5/ P13 Ensure the provision of quality affordable childcare throughout the County in consultation with the Laois County Childcare Committee, the County Development Board and the Health Services Executive. S1 5/ P14 Require the provision of childcare facilities of an appropriate type and scale in suitable locations throughout the County. In particular, the development of childcare facilities at the following locations will normally be required. -areas of concentrated employment and business parks; -neighbourhood centres; -integrated into large retail developments and retail warehouse parks; -in, or in the vicinity of, schools or major educational facilities; -adjacent to public transport nodes, -in, or adjacent to, community centres and -within new and existing residential development. S1 5 / P15 Encourage the provision of childcare facilities in tandem with proposals for new residential developments. Generally, one childcare facility with places for 20 children shall be provided for each 75 family dwellings in accordance with national guidelines [unless it can be demonstrated otherwise, to the satisfaction of the Council, having regard to the existing geographic distribution of childcare facilities and the demographic profile of the area]. The 72 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

Planning Authority will encourage developers of new residential developments to undertake prior consultation with Laois County Childcare Committee on how best to meet the childcare needs of that area. S1 5 / P16 Permit childcare facilities in existing residential areas provided that they do not have a significant impact on the character or amenities of an area, particularly with regard to car parking, traffic generation and noise disturbance. Where proposed facilities relate to properties which have been designed and built as dwellings, and are surrounded by other houses, a significant residential element should be retained. S1 5 / P17 Promote and encourage the provision of a network of childcare facilities that reflect the distribution of the residential population in the County and to minimise travel distance and maximise opportunities for disadvantaged communities.

5.5 HEALTH CARE FACILITIES

Healthcare and medical facilities are provided by public, private and voluntary agencies within County Laois. The Health Service Executive (HSE) is the primary organisation responsible for the delivery of health care and personal social services to the people of the County. dŚĞĞƉĂƌƚŵĞŶƚŽĨ,ĞĂůƚŚĂŶĚŚŝůĚƌĞŶƉƵďůŝƐŚĞĚ͞dŚĞWƌŝŵĂƌǇĂƌĞ^ƚƌĂƚĞŐǇ͟ŝŶϮϬϬϭĂŶĚƚŚŝƐƉƌŽŵŽƚĞƐĂ team-based approach to service provision, designed to make available a fully integrated primary care service. Two primary care centres are currently being developed in County Laois, in Mountmellick and Portarlington.

The primary role of Laois County Council with regard to health care is to ensure that there is an adequate policy framework in place which includes for the reservation of lands should additional services be required and that the health care facilities would be permitted subject to good Planning practice. The Planning Authority will reserve sites within development centres for health care facilities in consultation with the HSE.

Health Care provision It is the Policy of the Council to S1 5/ P18 Co-operate with the Health Service Executive and other statutory and voluntary agencies in the provision of appropriate health care facilities covering the full spectrum of such care from hospitals to the provision of community based care facilities subject to proper Planning considerations and the principles of sustainable development; S1 5/ P19 Ensure that adequate lands and services are available for the improvement, establishment and expansion of health services. Ensure that adequate services such as water supply or wastewater treatment are in place prior todevelopment takeing place S1 5/ P20 Encourage the integration of healthcare facilities within new and existing communities and to discourage proposals that would cause unnecessary isolation or other access difficulties, particularly for the disabled, the elderly and children; S1 5 / P21 Consider change of use applications from residential to health care facilities / surgeries only where the privacy and amenity of adjacent occupiers can be preserved and the proposal does not have a detrimental effect on local amenity by way of an increase in traffic, car parking or noise. The full conversion of semi-detached terraced type dwellings will not be permitted; S1 5 / P22 Encourage nursing homes and sheltered housing accommodation to be located within settlements to provide for easy access both for staff and visitors in order to enhance overall

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quality of life, increase their links with, and accessibility to, local amenities and to adopt a presumption against rural locations; S1 5/ P23 Encourage, support and facilitate the provision of a range of services for the aged population. The Council is committed to accommodating the needs of older people in rural areas by the provision, or facilitation of nursing homes and sheltered housing developments. These facilities should be located within settlements in order to enhance overall quality of life, increase their links with, and accessibility to, local amenities, and therefore reduce the likelihood of social isolation S1 5/ P24 Have particular regard to public transport access in considering proposals for major hospital facilities or the re-location of major hospital facilities to a new location. This should include both public transport access from the catchment area of the hospital and, where the facility serves a specialist or national need, from outside of the catchment.

5.6 LIBRARY SERVICES

The library service of Laois County Council plays an increasingly important educational, community, information and outreach role in the County. It has also become an important venue for cultural activities. In terms of future projects, replacement libraries are planned for Portarlington and Portlaoise, both of which are under increased pressure as a result of the huge population growth in both towns.

Library Services It is the policy of the Council to S1 5 / P25 Continue to expand and improve the library service to meet the needs of the community, in line with the objectives and priorities of the Library Development Plan and subject to the availability of finance; S1 5/ P26 Provide new library facilities in the Principal town of Portlaoise and the Key Service Town of Portarlington in the lifetime of the plan; S1 5/ P27 Investigate the delivery of library services to rural villages using public private partnerships and electronic networking; S1 5/ P28 Provide and improve access for the disabled in both existing and Planned accommodation; S1 5 / P29 Develop links between existing library facilities for third level education and outreach facilities in relation to distance learning.

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5.7 ARTS AND CULTURAL FACILITIES

The County Laois Arts Development Plan 2006-2011 sets out measures to encourage heightened awareness and interest in the arts and increase public participation by all sectors of the community including those previously not involved. The Arts Plan also includes objectives in relation to public art.

Arts and cultural facilities are wide ranging across the County and include - Dunamaise Theatre in Portlaoise, Mountmellick and Attanagh museums, and outdoor music venues such as the internationally acclaimed Electric Picnic site in Stradbally Hall. Libraries such as Mountmellick, Abbeyleix, Mountrath and Durrow serve as key arts and cultural outlets. Plans are underway for the provision of a Library / Arts facility in the service town of Stradbally

Arts and Cultural Facilities Policies It is the policy of the Council to S1 5 / P30 Continue to recognise the importance of the arts in areas of personal development, community development, employment and tourism and to endeavour to create further opportunities in each of these areas; S1 5 / P31 Ensure that all arts and cultural facilities in the ownership and management of the Council are accessible to the wider community and to promote the role of these centres as focal points for the community; S1 5 / P32 Continue the physical enhancement programme of arts spaces in libraries Countywide, including visual art galleries, performance and workshop facilities; S1 5/ P33 Liaise with the County Arts Officer on any development proposal that is likely to have a significant impact on the arts; S1 5 / P34 Increase public awareness of and participation in the Arts in line with the objectives and priorities of the Arts Development Plan and subject to the availability of finance; S1 5 / P35 Promote the provision of public art, including temporary art and sculpture, through such mechanisms as the government supported Percent for Art Scheme and the development management process; S1 5 / P36 Encourage and support the creation and display of works of art in public areas, including appropriate locations within the streetscape, provided no unacceptable environmental, amenity, traffic or other problems are created.

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5.8 BURIAL GROUNDS

Under the Planning and Development Act 2000, the Council can include objectives to reserve land for burial grounds. The individual settlement Plans and Local Area Plans will examine the adequacy of the existing facilities to cater for the Plan period and will reserve lands within each development centre for burial facilities as required.

In addition to the actual provision of burial grounds, another important Planning issue is to recognise and protect the heritage value of the existing cemeteries, often located in the grounds of old churches. Cemeteries had been provided on a parish basis in Ireland and very frequently were in the vicinity of and associated with the ruins of churches that had existed in previous centuries. These burial places were controlled locally ʹ in the case of Catholic burial grounds by the parish priest and his parishioners. Some of these may be national monuments or in the curtilage of protected structures. The Aghaboe Abbey complex is a good case in point.

Burial Grounds It is the Policy of the Council to S1 5 / P37 Facilitate the provision of new burial grounds and the extension of existing cemeteries as appropriate to cater for the needs of a multi-cultural County. Ensure the protection of groundwater dependant Natura 2000 sites which rely on the continued supply of groundwater resources to secure the key environmental conditions that support the integrity of the site and through protection of groundwater standards by the South East Regional Basin Management Plan; SI 5 / P38 Explore the use of environmentally sound burial sites. S1 5 / P39 Protect the cultural heritage of historical burial grounds within County Laois and encourage their management and maintenance in accordance with conservation principles; S1 5 / P40 Encourage local community groups to develop, manage and maintain new burial facilities.

5.9 EMERGENCY SERVICES

Fire fighting is an important safety service provided by Laois County Council. The fire service also has a responsibility in relation to fire safety standards in the design of new and improved buildings, changes of use and also in relation to the fire safety aspects of the daily use of buildings which are accessed by the public. Under the Building Regulations, separate applications are sent to the Fire Service to obtain a Fire Safety Certificate and this is obtained prior to construction.

There are eight fire stations at strategic locations throughout the County; Portlaoise (the headquarters of the network), Portarlington, Abbeyleix, Rathdowney, Mountmellick, Stradbally, Durrow and Mountrath. New fully-equipped stations have recently been opened in Portlaoise [2003], Abbeyleix [2008] and Portarlington [2009].

Fire Services Policies It is the policy of the Council to S1 5 / P41 Continue to provide a modern and effective fire service for the County S1 5 / P42 Facilitate the accommodation of fire service facilities in locations that allow ease of access and safe functioning with respect to the road network and Ensure new and refurbished

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developments are as self sustaining as possible, endeavoring to avoid fossil fuel dependence in light of peak oil. S1 5 / P43 Continue with the programme for station development and improvement at the stations in Rathdowney, Stradbally, Mountmellick, Mountrath and Durrow. SI 5 / P44 Ensure new vehicles for fire services are as fossil fuel independent as possible to ensure services are available despite a rise in oil costs 5.10 Crime

Informed, positive planning, particularly when co-ordinated with other measures, can make a significant contribution to tackling crime.

Sustainable communities are communities which succeed economically, socially and environmentally, and respect the needs of future generations. They are well-designed places where people feel safe and secure; ǁŚĞƌĞĐƌŝŵĞĂŶĚĚŝƐŽƌĚĞƌ͕ŽƌƚŚĞĨĞĂƌŽĨĐƌŝŵĞ͕ĚŽĞƐŶ͛ƚƵŶĚĞƌŵŝŶĞƋƵĂůŝƚǇŽĨůŝĨĞŽƌĐŽŵŵƵŶŝƚǇĐŽŚĞƐŝŽŶ͘

Designing out crime and designing in community safety should be central to the planning and delivery of new development. Planning out crime also makes sense financially. Once a development has been completed the main opportunity to incorporate crime prevention measures will have been lost. The costs involved in correcting or managing badly-designed development are much greater than getting it right in the first place.

Planning can contribute directly to crime prevention through the following tools:

x Development plan policies x Supplementary planning guidance x Pre-application discussions and negotiations x Development control decision-making x Planning conditions and planning obligations

There are seven attributes of sustainable communities that are particularly relevant to crime prevention. The attributes have emerged from in-depth research into crime prevention and urban design practice and theory. These are set out below:-

Access and movement: places with well-defined routes, spaces and entrances that provide for convenient movement without compromising security

Structure: places that are structured so that different uses do not cause conflict

Surveillance: places where all publicly accessible spaces are overlooked

Ownership: places that promote a sense of ownership, respect, territorial responsibility and community

Physical protection: places that include necessary, well-designed security features

Activity: places where the level of human activity is appropriate to the location and creates a reduced risk of crime and a sense of safety at all times

Management and maintenance: places that are designed with management and maintenance in mind, to discourage crime in the present and the future

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It is the Policy of the Council to S1 5/ P45 Accommodate a Garda Office within Community Facilities SI 5 / P46 Ensure that development ƉƌŽƉŽƐĂůƐĂĚĂƉƚ͞ĞƐŝŐŶŝŶŐŽƵƚĐƌŝŵĞ͟ƐƚĂŶĚĂƌĚƐĂƐŝŶĚŝĐĂƚĞĚŝŶ Chapter 16- Design and Development Standards S1 5 / P47 Co-ŽƉĞƌĂƚŝŽŶǁŝƚŚĂŶ'ĂƌĚĂ^şŽĐŚĄŶĂ͛ƐKůĚĞƌWĞƌƐŽŶ^ƚƌĂƚĞŐǇƚŽĞŶƐƵƌĞĐŽŶƚĂĐƚĂŶĚƐĂĨĞƚǇ of elderly and rurally isolated citizens through community alert/ neighbourhood watch schemes.

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6 RECREATION AND AMENITY

Core aim To facilitate the provision of social and recreational infrastructure and to provide access to new and existing community and social facilities throughout the county for all citizens;

6.1 INTRODUCTION

The Council has recognised the need to maximise opportunities for play facilities for children both within the natural and built environments. Laois County Council has made a major commitment to this sector with funding coming from a number of internal and external sources including development contributions, the FAI and the Dept. of Tourism, Culture and Sport.

Recreation, leisure and sport are important components of a good quality of life and have major land use implications. Adequate and accessible provision of open space, sport and recreational facilities including swimming pools and public parks is an important consideration in assessing the quality of life in a town or area. It is likely to become more important as densities in central areas increase and pressure from competing land uses becomes more intense. Open space policies will be considered in the context of these provisions as required in the development control standard section of the Plan.

COUNTRYSIDE RECREATION

Countryside recreation refers to a wide range of activities including horse riding, cycling, walking, picnicking, country drives, off-road biking, nature trails, bird watching, painting, photography, field studies, orienteering, para ʹgliding and hang- gliding, rock climbing, back-packing, caving, mountaineering, hill walking and adventure sports, camping in the wild, archaeological guided walks and water related activities such as swimming, boating, canoeing and kayaking. It is recognised that the countryside of County Laois provides an important resource in outdoor recreational facilities not only for its own population but also for those visiting the county. The Council recognises the significance of natural amenities as a major resource for visitors and local people. dŚĞ͞EĂƚŝŽŶĂůŽƵŶƚƌǇƐŝĚĞZĞĐƌĞĂƚŝŽŶ^ƚƌĂƚĞŐǇ͟ǁĂƐĨŝŶĂůŝƐĞĚŝŶϮϬϬϲ͘/t defines the scope, vision and a suggested framework for the implementation of countryside recreation as agreed by Comhairle na Tuaith. This strategy will inform Laois Sports Partnership in the preparation of a strategic plan for physical recreation in County Laois.

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Sport, Leisure and Recreation Policies It is the policy of the Council to RA 6/ P01 Encourage and support local sports and community groups in the provision and development of outdoor and indoor sporting and community facilities. RA 6/ P02 Support local sports groups and community groups in the development of facilities through the reservation of suitable land and the provision of funding where available and appropriate. RA 6/ P03 Cater for the sporting and recreational needs of all sectors and ages of the community and promote the integration of those with special needs into the sporting and recreational environment. RA 6/ P04 Protect leisure and recreation facilities from change of use or redevelopment to other uses unless a comparable facility can be provided to serve the same area.

RA 6/ P05 Recognize the role played by Natural Amenities as a major resource for visitors and local people and support, protect and promote public access to mountains, Natura 2000 sites, nature reserves rivers, lakes and other natural amenities that have been traditionally used for outdoor recreation and to the countryside generally and ensure that any plan or project associated with open space planning, recreation or tourism which has the potential to significantly effect a Natura 2000 site is assessed in accordance with article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of that site.

Given that Portlaoise has been designated as a National Transportation Hub - ͞/ŶůĂŶĚWŽƌƚ͟ŝŶƚŚĞEĂƚŝŽŶĂů Spatial Strategy and its supremacy as a Principal Town within the Midland Regional Settlement Strategy and the County Settlement Strategy as indicated in this Plan, Laois County Council will investigate the potential to develop a regional sports centre that would incorporate a range of facilities currently lacking in the region.

Regional Sports Centre It is the policy of the Council to RA 6 / P06 Work in co-operation with Laois Sports Partnership in exploring the potential for clustering facilities to provide a regional sports centre in a strategic location.

6.2 OPEN SPACE PROVISION

Open space can provide a variety of functions, including passive recreation, active recreation, visual amenity, ecology, drainage regulation and socio-economic needs. It is important that the provision of open space considers all of these needs.

Much of the open space suitable for sporting activities in the County belongs to privately managed clubs and organisations. Organisations such as the GAA, soccer clubs, rugby clubs, athletic clubs, together with schools, convents and colleges provide invaluable facilities throughout the County.

However, like many other counties, our towns and villages are currently in need of improved open space and parklands. Development of an appropriate range and standard of facilities for sports and formal recreation will be encouraged.

Proposals on suitable sites for open space and parklands, which are well related to their local catchment populations and to footpath and transport networks, and are capable of being serviced by public transport, will normally be permitted.

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Open Space Provision It is the policy of the Council to RA 6 / P07 Prepare an Open Space Plan for the County having regard to the town parks, riverside walks and other amenity spaces and ensure that any plan or project associated with open space planning or tourism which has the potential to significantly affect a Natura 2000 site is appropriately assessed in accordance with Article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of the site; RA 6 / P08 Ensure that a range of options are explored for the provision of open space in consultation with the County play strategy; RA 6 / P09 Develop a balance in the location and types of open space provided throughout the County and to ensure the development of high quality open space areas, for both active and passive use, and formal and informal activities and ensure that flood risk management measures are incorporated into the provision of recreation and amenity infrastructure ; RA 6 / P10 Ensure that open space is provided to enhance the character of residential areas; RA 6 / P11 Require developers to make provision for sport and recreational infrastructure as an integral element of their proposals. Such provision should include direct provision on or off site or a development levy to enable the Council to make appropriate alternative provision; RA 6 / P12 Encourage developers to pool land for the purposes of open space requirements to allow for the provision of multipurpose amenity areas (e.g. playing pitches) as well as small ancillary open spaces within residential areas; RA 6 / P13 Pursue the provision of riverside walks and fishing areas, and where appropriate, the development of ancillary facilities to ensure that these are user-friendly and the development of other unique recreational offerings such as mountain biking at appropriate sites, in order to harness the tourist / recreational potential of the County and ensure that any plan or project associated with open space planning or tourism which has the potential to significantly affect a Natura 2000 site is appropriately assessed in accordance with Article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of the site RA 6 / P14 Encourage community gardening and other use of open space to facilitate lower carbon living education and practice. RA 6 / P15 Encourage open space use by community groups, schools and tidy towns to promote inter generational and cross cultural skill sharing on edible landscapes, community composting, rain water harvesting etc. RA 6 / P16 Preserve the major natural amenities of the County (i.e. Slieve Bloom Mountains and River Valleys) and to provide parks and open spaces in association with them along with facilitating walking and cycling routes linking the mountains, river valleys and major parks and ensure that any plan or project associated with open space planning, recreation or tourism which has the potential to significantly effect a Natura 2000 site is assessed in accordance with article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of that site. RA 6 / P17 Develop walking routes to reflect recreational value and to implement strategic green corridors and ensure that any plan or project associated with open space planning, recreation or tourism which has the potential to significantly effect a Natura 2000 site is assessed in accordance with article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of that site.

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6.3 SPORTS PROVISION IN COUNTY LAOIS

Laois Sports Partnership was established in 2001 as part of the Irish Sports Council initiative aimed at improving the delivery of sport at a local level. The Local Sports Partnership (LSP) initiative aims to increase participation in sport and optimise the use of local resources. Many of the sports facilities within the County are in private ownership. Laois County Council will continue, where appropriate, to facilitate the provision of further facilities to which public access will be available, where possible. Sporting facilities should be well managed and accessible.

Recreation and Sports Provision It is the policy of the Council to RA 6 / P18 discourage development, which woulĚ ƌĞƐƵůƚ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ůŽƐƐ ŽĨ ƉůĂǇŝŶŐ ĨŝĞůĚƐ͕ ƉĂƌŬƐ͕ ĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ͛Ɛ play space, amenity open space or land zoned for recreational or open space purposes, an exception may be considered where the following requirements are demonstrably met: -a clear excess of playing fields or open space provision within the area. This should take into account the long term needs of the community, the type of recreational and amenity value of such provision; -alternative provision is made which is both accessible and of equal or greater quality and benefit to the community; -the continued use and proper maintenance of the facility can best be achieved by the redevelopment of a small part of the site that will not adversely affect its sporting, recreational or amenity value; RA 6 / P19 Seek opportunities to improve the quality and capacity of existing leisure facilities and where appropriate the Council will use its powers under the Planning and Development Acts 2000 - 2010 as amended to require development levies to achieve the redevelopment of existing facilities. RA 6 / P20 In the case of large residential developments, to require developers to make appropriate provision for sport and recreation infrastructure, commensurate with the needs of the development, as an integral element of their proposals. Such provision to include direct provision on or off site or the payment of a development levy to enable alternative provision be made. RA 6 / P21 prohibit development proposals for sports facilities involving the use of motor vehicles, aircraft or firearms unless the following criteria are fulfilled: -There will be no unacceptable disturbance to local residents. There will be no unacceptable disturbance to farm livestock and wildlife -There will be no conflict with the enjoyment of areas used for informal recreation -The ambient noise level in the area of the proposed development is already high and the noise likely to be produced by the proposed activity will not be pre-dominant -In certain cases, the Council may only consider it appropriate to grant a temporary permission so as to allow the impact of noise levels and other forms of disturbance and nuisance to be more fully assessed. RA 6 / P22 Encourage the development of areas ĨŽƌŽůĚĞƌƉĞŽƉůĞƚŽ͞ŚĂŶŐŽƵƚ͟ŝŶ- combination with ĂĐƚŝǀŝƚŝĞƐ ƐƵĐŚ ĂƐ ͞ǇŽƵƚŚĐĂĨĠ͟ ǁŚĞƌĞďǇ ƚŚĞ ƉƌĞŵŝƐĞƐ ĐĂŶ ďĞ ƵƐĞĚ ƚŚƌŽƵŐŚŽƵƚ ƚŚĞ ĚĂǇ ďǇ each age group.

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6.4 PLAY FACILITIES FOR CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE

The Council will have regard to the Departments of ,ĞĂůƚŚ ĂŶĚ ŚŝůĚƌĞŶ͛Ɛ ƉŽůŝĐǇ ĚŽĐƵŵĞŶƚ Teenspace National Recreational Policy for Young People (2007). It is recognized that a multi agency approach is required to deliver the needs of the young people of the County. Such needs include skate parks, youth cafes; hang out areas where young people can socialize with one another. The Council will be guided by this multi-agency Plan in the development of local play policies over the lifetime of the Plan.

Play Strategy It is the policy of the Council to RA 6 / P23 Improve the provision of public playgrounds6 to allow for reacreational areas for the elderly and the youth in appropriate locations across the County; RA 6 / P24 Encourage new innovative leisure facilities to allow for teenagers needs. i.e. safe place to hang out, youth cafés, etc RA 6 / P25 Provide play facilities adjacent to other community facilities, in so far as is practicable. RA 6 / P26 Devise and adopt, in co-operation with other relevant agencies, a play Plan for County Laois setting out a strategy for the provision, resourcing and implementation of improved social and play opportunities for children and the youth of the County. RA 6 / P27 Acknowledge the need of children to play in a natural environment and work with communities to recognise, make safe and utilise these areas.

6.5 SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES

It is an objective of the Council to carry out the following specific projects, planned over the course of the County Development Plan 2011-2017 as indicated in Table 14.

6 Supervised and covered playgrounds will be considered as appropriate subject to development control standards and environmental criteria;

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Table 14: Planned Leisure Facilities in County Laois 2011-2017

Location Type of facilities provided Portlaoise Leisure Centre Floodlighting & Fencing of Grass Pitch, Extension to Sports Hall Mountmellick Willow Grove Playground Slieve Bloom National Cycling Trail Centre Rathdowney Playground & MUGA Ballylinan Playground Borris- in- Ossory Playground Emo National Natural Playground Ballinakill Playground & Upgrade of Outdoor Swimming Pool Coolrain, Castletown, Doonane, Village Playground Developments Arles, Killenard, Camross, Rosenallis, Vicarstown, Crettyard, The Swan, Ballyfin and Errill Knockmay, Sean Doire, Balladine Local Authority Housing Recreational Area Development housing estates etc Portarlington Leisure Centre 2 X 5 a Side Pitches and Outdoor Adventure Centre Rathdowney,Mountrath, Slí na Sláinte Walking Routes WŽƌƚĂƌůŝŶŐƚŽŶ͕ΘϮZƵƌĂů^ůş͛Ɛ Portlaoise Athletic Track ʹTartan Resurface, Dressing Rooms & Floodlighting Main Population Centres Provision of Youth Café Facilities Slieve Bloom Further Upgrade of Slieve Bloom Walks

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7 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Core aim To build on the economic strengths of County Laois in a balanced and sustainable manner focusing on the opportunities of its strategic location, infrastructure, environment, heritage assets and labour force

7.1 INTRODUCTION

This chapter sets out how the Council will proactively encourage the economic development of the County in accordance with the principles of proper Planning and sustainable development. Economic development is a key concern of the Council because industrial, commercial and retail development and job creation are fundamental to maintaining and building sustainable communities and a strong economic base in towns, villages and also in rural areas. A key challenge for the Council is to tackle unemployment by supporting local entrepreneurship as well as attracting new foreign direct investment and small to medium sized enterprises.

This chapter addresses industrial and enterprise development, retail development, the town centre economy, rural development and the development of the tourism economy.

7.2 CONTEXT

The economic profile of the County is detailed in Chapter 2, County Profile. This chapter is informed by submissions and by sectoral and spatial economic development strategies and guidelines, framed at European, national, regional and local levels:

EU 2020 Strategy ʹ focuses on: x Smart growth: fostering knowledge, innovation, education and the digital society x Sustainable growth: promoting a low-carbon, resource-efficient and competitive economy x Inclusive growth: raising participation in the labour market, the acquisition of skills and the fight against poverty

The European Spatial Development Perspective (1999) and the National Spatial Strategy advocate a polycentric development strategy whereby growth is directed to a dynamic network of centres within each region, which build and sustain a critical mass of population, industry, services and infrastructure. This network is underpinned by synergistic and supportive economic relationships. This is an alternative to a mono-centric spatial structure, whereby the country is over dependent on the greater Dublin area.

Horizon 2020 IDA Strategy (2010) sets specific targets to be achieved by 2014: x Creation of 62,000 new jobs x Locating of 50% of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) outside Cork and Dublin x ŶŶƵĂůŝŶǀĞƐƚŵĞŶƚďǇĐůŝĞŶƚƐŽĨΦϭ͘ϳďŶŝŶƌĞƐĞĂƌĐŚ͕ĚĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚĂŶĚŝŶŶŽǀĂƚŝŽŶŝŶ/ƌĞůĂŶĚ͘

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The strategy highlights the essential importance of transport, energy and broadband infrastructure and the importance of keeping infrastructural charges and development contributions competitive in order to attract FDI to areas outside Dublin and Cork.

Transforming Irish Industry Enterprise Ireland Strategy 2008-2010 focuses on: x Growing export sales x Scaling up Irish companies x Increasing high value research and development spend x Driving the establishment of High Potential Start Up enterprises and delivering 50% of supported- start ups outside the Dublin Region.

It identifies existing growth sectors: food, environment, industrial sciences, life sciences, and software. It also identifies emerging growth sectors: environmental products and services, and construction products and services. Enterprise Ireland is also increasing its focus on specific growth sectors such as internationally traded services and cleantech sectors. It is anticipated that Enterprise Ireland client companies will create 60,000 jobs by 2016.

ƵŝůĚŝŶŐ/ƌĞůĂŶĚ͛Ɛ^ŵĂƌƚĐŽŶŽŵǇ͗&ƌamework for Sustainable Economic Renewal (Dept of Taoiseach 2008) highlights six actions x Securing the Enterprise Economy x Building the Ideas Economy ʹ ƌĞĂƚŝŶŐ͚dŚĞ/ŶŶŽǀĂƚŝŽŶ/ƐůĂŶĚ͛ x Enhancing the Environment and Securing Energy Supplies x Investing in Critical Infrastructure x Efficient and Effective Public Services x Smart Regulation

ĞǀĞůŽƉŝŶŐ/ƌĞůĂŶĚ͛Ɛ'ƌĞĞŶĐŽŶŽŵǇ;ĞƉĂƌƚŵĞŶƚŽĨŶƚĞƌƉƌŝƐĞdƌĂĚĞĂŶĚŵƉůŽǇŵĞŶƚ͕ĞƉĂƌƚŵĞŶƚŽĨ Communications, Energy and Natural Resources 2009) includes a recommendation for the designation of Green Zones to provide an opportunity for greater clustering and brand development of green economy activities and facilities. It also states that the provision of state-of-the-art environmentally friendly buildings and infrastructures (energy, water, waste treatment, etc.) in a green business park would support the development of the Green Economy.

Report of Innovation Taskforce (2010) emphasises the importance of broadband infrastructure and laboratory facilities for the development of sectors such as Information, Communication Technology (ICT), life sciences and green technology. It suggests that broadband provision be provided for in local authority Plans and infrastructural works.

Discussion and background papers to 2020 Strategy (Dept of Agriculture 2010) focus on the potential of the agrifood, forestry and fishing sectors to contribute significantly to Ireland's export-led economic recovery

Retail Planning Guidelines (DoEHLG 2005) outlines a spatial framework for directing different types and sizes of retail development. The focus on maintaining the vibrancy and vitality of town centres underpins the guidelines.

Midland Regional Planning Guidelines 2010 focuses on economic development in the following sectors: x Internationally traded services (including ICT and software),

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x Life sciences (including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology and medical devices), x Food, x Tourism and leisure, x Engineering, x Renewable energy, x Logistics and distribution, x International trading, x Public services

In addition it supports the directing of logistics and distribution development to Togher Inland Port and notes the potential of Togher to drive regional economic development.

Fáilte Ireland East and Midlands Regional Tourism Development Plan 2008-2010 focuses on four main areas x Inland waterways as an international and domestic visitor hub x Position the region as the heart of equestrian activities in Ireland x Focus on tourism experiences within easy reach of Dublin x Focus on heritage

County Development Board Strategy Review (2009-2012) ʹ focused on three priorities: x Enhancing employment opportunities for all x Promoting Laois as a child friendly County x Retain and develop the viability of its towns and villages

Laois Tourism Strategy 2006-2010 prepared by Laois Leader, Laois County Council and Laois Tourism Ltd focuses on: x Selecting target markets x Determining competitive advantage of Laois within target markets x Positioning Laois within the target markets x Building capacity to pursue tourism agenda

7.3 REQUIREMENTS FOR ECONOMIC SUCCESS

The following skills are critical for success

x Entrepreneurial Skills x Innovation Skills x Leadership Skills x Sales & Marketing Skills ʹ especially for international markets x Language Skills ʹ in recent years significant economic opportunity has arisen in countries such as China, Brazil & India. Being able to speak the local language will be increasingly valuable.

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Focusing energies in promoting a strong Laois competence in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) subjects will help to position Laois strongly within the Smart Economy. The development of the quality of these skills across Laois we believe will make an important contribution to achieving the Vision for Laois not just in the Economic Development area but also in other areas of Laois life. Examples of activities (& metrics that could be developed to drive these skills) include

- Number of people in key local communities that participate in Leadership Development Programmes - Number of innovative solutions developed to solve local problems ʹ dereliction, unfinished housing estates, crime rates, loneliness of elderly people, obesity etc - Getting primary & secondary school kids to partake in selling activities within schools. - Number of new ideas, products, services or companies developed ( & successfully in operation) - Number of Laois people learning Mandarin - etc

In achieving the Vision for Laois, priority should be given to companies and wealth creators. To pay for future services, income must be generated from companies ʹ especially those in the productive sector. If Laois has a vibrant productive sector it will be well positioned to achieve or even exceed the Strategic Targets of the plan.

Does the plan acknowledge that the key driver of future success will be companies?

If so, how does Laois propose to drive the success of companies?

A number of actions that would contribute towards the achievement of this include - Organisations in Laois, including Laois Local Authorities, supporting say 10 new Laois businesses every year of the plan - Developing an Entrepreneurship Policy and Action Plan for Laois - Quarterly Laois Company Consultative Meetings - Identifying potential investors in Laois (& outside Laois) that might invest in new Laois projects.

Finally it should be highlighted that the core aim of the Economic Development section may need changing. An existing strength of the local Laois economy is the number of people employed in the public sector and the core aim serves to enhance this. If we accept that the key driver is companies ʹ especially the productive sector, then this objective may need changing.

A key strength of Laois is its location and the number of Transport & Logistics companies that have chosen to locate here. In developing this sector it will be important that an action plan is developed and implemented by a named person/body with SMART objectives.

1. It may be useful to consider a number of Guiding Principles that would underpin each Strategic Target.

These Principles could include ¾ Excellence - in everything that happens in Laois ¾ Innovative Thinking ʹ is applied by all to solve problems

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¾ Sustainable Delivery ʹ activities that erode the sustainability of Laois life would be avoided or rejected and ensuring that activities are designed and delivered to persist into the future, once public sector resources have played out their role ¾ A Common Purpose ʹ activities that harness the people of Laois into action for the common good would be encouraged and embedding a pervasive understanding of and commitment to key areas such as enterprise, innovation, leadership and selling. ¾ Enterprise Led ʹ ensuring a strong commercial imperative in everything that we do and being prepared to apply the lessons of experience ¾ A Global View ʹ Using the world as a benchmark to gain a better understanding of the quality of Laois activities and assets, the potential to become world competitive and the need to adapt to changing circumstances

Enterprise Ireland looks forward to making an important contribution to the development of new companies, new products and services and new export markets for Laois thereby sustaining and creating jobs and wealth in the county.

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7.4 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVES

EC 7/ O01 Use a collaborative and integrated approach to fostering an administrative environment that is conducive to local entrepreneurship, inward investment and sustainable employment, in consultation with key agencies, and one that reconciles the need for business and industrial development with social and environmental considerations. EC 7/ O02 ,ĂƌŶĞƐƐƚŚĞĞĐŽŶŽŵŝĐĚĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚƉŽƚĞŶƚŝĂůƚŚĂƚĂƌŝƐĞƐĨƌŽŵ>ĂŽŝƐ͛ŬĞǇůŽĐĂƚŝŽŶŝŶƌĞůĂƚŝŽŶ to national strategic road network and rail infrastructure, to act as a driver for regional and local growth and in particular facilitate the development of Togher as an area for Foreign Direct Investment and a national transport node, as a conferencing, office and leisure services centre, and an area to avail of off-line motorway services and retail warehousing uses. EC 7/ O03 Protect existing industry and enterprises and encourage the development of new industry and enterprise in appropriate locations, directing large-scale and labour intensive developments to either appropriately zoned industrial, business or enterprise areas such as the Togher National Enterprise Centre (encompassing Clonminam Business Park IDA Business and Technology Park and additional lands), Kea Lew Business Park, Portarlington Enterprise Centre or to appropriately and serviced zoned lands and ensure that any plan or project associated with economic development of lands which has the potential to significantly affect a Natura 2000 site is appropriately assessed in accordance with Article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of the site and environmental legislation; EC 7/ O04 Retain, reinforce and diversify the range and quantum of retail development in County Laois by focusing in particular on the high order retail functioning of Portlaoise as the Major Town ĞŶƚƌĞĂŶĚĂĚŚĞƌŝŶŐƚŽƚŚĞŽƵŶĐŝů͛ƐZĞƚĂŝů^ƚƌĂƚĞŐǇϮϬϭϭ-2017 as included in the appendices . EC 7/ O05 Foster a hierarchy of interconnected and inclusive town centre cores characterised by vibrancy and vitality, which function as mixed-use hubs for retail, commercial, leisure and civic activities, support the mutually beneficial relationship between retail and commercial land uses in town centre cores and the key role that town centres play in underpinning the ŽƵŶƚǇ͛ƐĞĐŽŶŽŵǇ͘ EC 7/ O06 Facilitate the development of land-based industry in rural locations, commercial development related directly to land-based industry and small scale home-based economic activity where these developments do not adversely affect the transport network, the environment or general amenity of the surrounding area. EC 7/ O07 DĂǆŝŵŝƐĞ>ĂŽŝƐ͛ƐŚĂƌĞŝŶƚŚĞƚŽƵƌŝƐŵĞĐŽŶŽŵǇ͖ŝŶƉĂƌƚŝĐƵůĂƌďǇƌĂŝƐŝŶŐƚŚĞƉƌŽĨŝůĞŽĨCounty Laois as a tourism destination, by improving access to and appreciation of archaeological, historic and natural heritage assets, by developing enterprises related to heritage assets, and focusing on leisure, conferencing, events and hospitality sector which could comprise tourist attractions in their own right. EC 7/ O08 Contribute to the development of a regional brand to capitalise on the central geographical location of the region in its entirety and complete the branding strategy for the region in partnership with the Midland Regional Authority; EC 7/ 009... Encourage businesses to have regard to the economic impacts of peak oil and climate change on their business; EC 7/ 010... Encourage the use of locally sourced materials within the Business community in order to overcome the challenges of peak oil, climate change and economic contraction;

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EC 7/ 011... Ensure the infrastructure is available to support new employment uses such as reactionary skills base to include mending, repairs, mechanics, permaculture, beekeeping, food preservation and seed saving and ensure that any plan or project associated with infrastructure development which has the potential to significantly effect a Natura 2000 site is assessed in accordance with article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of that site.

7.5 TYPES OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

In order to effect the orderly development of lands, the Council zones land for specific economic purposes: industrial, enterprise and employment, general business, town-centre core, town centre secondary, edge of centre, mixed-ƵƐĞǌŽŶŝŶŐƐ͘ĂĐŚǌŽŶŝŶŐĐĂƚĞŐŽƌǇŚĂƐĂƐƉĞĐŝĨŝĐŽďũĞĐƚŝǀĞĂŶĚƚŚĞŽƵŶĐŝů͛ƐǌŽŶŝŶŐŵĂƚƌŝǆ details what land uses are (i) permitted in principle (ii) open for considerations (iii) not permitted.

In its zoning decisions, the Council is concerned with protecting existing enterprises and providing for their expansion and also with providing sufficient land for new enterprise across a range of sectors. The Council is also concerned with maintaining and providing for additional hard infrastructure (roads, water supply, wastewater treatment, electricity grid, gas pipeline network, broadband network, incubator centres etc) and soft infrastructure (attractive town centres, good quality of life, childcare provision, mentoring of new enterprises). These actions will serve to sustain and attract industry and enterprise.

The Council will ensure that this Development Plan and forthcoming Local Area Plans will have a positive role to play in ensuring that their planning policies promote a wide range of enterprise and employment opportunities and that adequate land and infrastructure services are in place to attract investment.

At the time of the preparation of this Plan, the economic context and short term outlook was uncertain. In these circumstances, it is important to remain adaptable and flexible, without undermining other importance planning considerations.

The modern economy is characterised by rapid change with new and sometimes unexpected areas of commercial opportunity emerging, while some traditional enterprises lose their competitive advantage. While other sectors may offer opportunities during the lifetime of this Plan, the Council has identified the following sectors as having economic potential in Laois: x Ability to attract Foreign Direct Investment; x Logistics, general and retail warehousing, off-line motorway services, office, leisure and conferencing services at Togher; x Tourism sector in urban and rural areas, discussed in Chapter 8:Tourism; x Event Planning, management and servicing; current annual events include the Laois Walking Festival, Electric Picnic, Gordon Bennett Rally and Magnet Festival; x Green economy: in particular forestry, biomass processing, geothermal energy production, wind farm development, sustainable waste treatment or recycling, as well as developments to improve building performance or reduce energy dependency of individual buildings; x Land-based, land associated and home-based economic activities in rural areas, in particular agri- food industry and aggregate-processing industry; x Comparison retail sector, retail warehousing and town centre markets; x Large-scale offices and manufacturing;

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There is a strong history of cooperative enterprises particularly in the agricultural sector. A resurgence in this business model will be considered in the next Plan period. Likewise there is a strong tradition of independently-owned and run small enterprises in County Laois and this model is likely to continue to play a significant role in the economic development of the County. Community-based, cooperative and start-up business is also supported by Laois Partnership.

Industrial development proposals will normally be located on appropriately zoned and serviced lands within ƚŚĞŽƵŶƚǇ͛ƐƵƌďan settlements. It is accepted that there are certain limited categories of enterprise that may have specific locational requirements that can more readily be accommodated outside of industrially zoned lands. Where no other suitable alternative sites for the location of such enterprise use are available in designated areas, the Council will consider employment generating uses in the countryside that primarily serve the adjoining rural community and are sympathetic to the surrounding area. These small-scale enterprises will generally be family owned and operated businesses and will need to satisfy traffic, public health and amenity and environmental requirements.

In summary the following will be sought as priorities in increasing employment during the next Plan period

JOB CREATION POLCIES It is the policy of the Council to EC 7 / P01 Facilitate appropriate development which could result in significant job creation; EC 7 / P02 Create sustainable employment and nurture entrepreneurship; EC 7 / P03 Develop the existing indigenous company base in County Laois; EC 7 / P04 Support community-based or cooperative enterprise; EC 7 / P05 Seek to facilitate the establishment of enterprises of this nature; EC 7 / P06 Support start-up enterprises and work in partnership with other agencies to provide support for start-up enterprises (Incubator Units at Portlaoise and Portarlington Enterprise Centres have been provided to this end) EC 7 / P07 ĞǀĞůŽƉĂĚŝǀĞƌƐŝĨŝĞĚĞĐŽŶŽŵŝĐďĂƐĞǁŚŝĐŚƌĞĚƵĐĞƐ>ĂŽŝƐ͛ǀƵůŶĞƌĂďŝůŝƚǇƚŽĂŶy one sector or a number of potentially vulnerable sectors through facilitating educational opportunities to broaden the skillsets of the residents of the County; EC 7 / P08 Support and facilitate the creation of employment in the green economy through the promotion of key sectors such as Renewable Energy and Efficient Energy Use and Management sectors.

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7.6 LOCATION OF ENTERPRISE AND EMPLOYMENT

The allocation of large tracts of serviced land at Togher as a National Enterprise Park for enterprise, employment and industrial uses in the immediate vicinity of national strategic transport infrastructure represents a unique opportunity to develop a cluster of complementary enterprises and more generally a larger, more robust and more diverse economic base for the County and the Region.

Town centre cores provide focal points for retail trade, commercial uses and service provision and play a lead role in driving the economic development of the County. High footfall in town centres gives rise to multiplier trade effects. A large number of independently owned small and medium sized businesses are located in town centres across the County.

Town centres, edge of centre, allocated industrial or enterprise lands are generally well-served by transport, high voltage electricity lines, water supply and wastewater treatment and broadband infrastructure as well as supporting service industries. In addition these areas are generally close to existing settlements which means that employees can have short trips to work and employers have ready access to labour. Enterprise and employment areas are suitable for commercial activities that have high space and parking requirements.

While the development agenda of siting industry and enterprise in or close to existing settlements provides for the efficient and sustainable use of land and infrastructure, some types of industry are better suited to rural areas.

This Plan widens the scope of acceptable economic activities in rural areas in order to allow for diversification of agricultural uses.

Although most rural areas are working landscapes associated with economic activities such as agriculture, forestry, quarrying and peat-cutting, these resource-based economic activities are acceptable on unzoned ůĂŶĚƐ͘ dŚĞ ŽƵŶĐŝů͛Ɛ >ĂŶĚƐĐĂƉĞ ŚĂƌĂĐƚĞƌ ƐƐĞƐƐŵĞŶƚ ŵĂƉƐ ƐĞŶƐŝƚŝǀĞ ĂƌĞĂƐ ǁŚĞƌĞ ƌĞƐŽƵƌĐĞ-based economic activities such as wind farms and conifer Plantations may not be acceptable.

Subject to general Planning considerations, potential exists for the development of land-based industries of various scales, economic activities which constitute rural diversification that are connected or related to land-based activities and also for small-scale home-based or tourist-based economic activities.

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Table 15: Tiered Strategy of Clustering Industrial and Enterprise Development in Laois

Tiered Strategy of Clustering Industrial and Enterprise Development in Laois Tier 1 Togher National Enterprise Inland Port Park Road and Rail Infrastructure Established heavy industry Incubator Centre Large catchment area Capacity for industrial/ enterprise development ʹ FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES Supported by NSS, RPGs, NRA, IDA policies Tier 2 Portarlington and Portlaoise Principal and Key Service Town (outside Togher) Road and Rail Infrastructure Established heavy industry Incubator Centres Large catchment area Capacity for industrial/ enterprise development Tier 3 Mountmellick Service Town and/or Graiguecullen Towns bypassed by M7/M8 Mountrath Capacity for industrial/ enterprise development. Abbeyleix Towns on SACs more suited to zoning for Enterprise and Stradbally Employment and General Business Use. Rathdowney 7.6.1 Durrow 7.6.2 Tier 4 Borris in Ossory Settlements bypassed by M7/M8 with good transport links Ballybrittas Capacity for industrial/ enterprise development Ballylynan 7.6.4 Ballacolla 7.6.3 Tier 4 The Swan Maintenance and expansion of established industrial Newtown Doonane complexes

7.7 TOGHER NATIONAL ENTERPRISE PARK

Following on from the National Spatial Strategy and Midland Regional Planning Guidelines 2010 a Masterplan for Togher National Enterprise Park was prepared and forms part of the amended Portlaoise Local Area Plan 2006-2012 (See Map 1.7.1.). The location of the enterprise and employment zone at Togher National Enterprise Park benefits from the availability of labour in Portlaoise town and is easily accessible from the national road network M7 (Dublin to Limerick), M8 (Dublin to Cork) , N80 and N77. Clustering specialist economic activities will lend itself to the establishment of a robust employment centre and the development of specialist skills in the labour market.

Opportunities for smaller-scale enterprise are provided for under town centre and village centre policies and zonings.

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It is the Council policy to EC 7 / P09 Encourage the clustering of mutually supportive land uses to maximise spin-out enterprise, synergistic business relationships and the development of specialist labour skills EC 7 / P10 Promote the efficient use and orderly development of land for economic purposes ; this includes land served by high quality infrastructure (transport, water, wastewater, electricity and gas), land in proximity to labour pools, land in proximity to services, land in proximity to raw or source materials, land in proximity to sites of tourism potential; EC 7 / P11 Preserve and enhance the vitality and vibrancy of town centre cores; EC 7 / P12 Stimulate economic development in urban and rural settlements playing to their particular strengths; EC 7 / P13 Protect scenic landscapes, archaeological, built and natural heritage, which have an economic value in attracting visitors; EC 7 / P14 Protect lands reserved for infrastructure essential to a developed local economy; EC 7 / P15 Encourage economic development in the hierarchy of employment centres within existing settlements as indicated in the settlement plans in Volume 2 and referred to in TT10/P23 such as Portarlington, Ballybrittas, Ballacolla, Mountrath and Borris in Ossory, Abbeyleix, Rathdowney and Durrow; EC 7 / P16 Develop Togher, as a National Enterprise Park, focused in particular on trade warehousing, distribution, logistics and other uses associated with the transport industry. Other suitable uses include offline motorway services, retail warehousing, offices and conference facilities, leisure uses such as hotels, catering and indoor sporting facilities. Provision is also made within Togher for the development of significant heavy, light and ICT industry uses as well as general enterprise uses In order to deliver the Togher National Enterprise Park, develop an implementation programme including direct marketing campaigns in order to drive economic development. EC 7 / P17 Develop Togher, as a National Enterprise Park, focused in particular on trade warehousing, distribution, logistics and other uses associated with the transport industry. Other suitable uses include offline motorway services, retail warehousing, offices and conference facilities, leisure uses such as hotels, catering and indoor sporting facilities. Provision is also made within Togher for the development of significant heavy, light and ICT industry uses as well as general enterprise uses in order to deliver the Togher National Enterprise Park, develop an implementation programme including direct marketing campaigns in order to drive economic development.

7.8 RETAIL DEVELOPMENT

Retail development is subject to the spatial context for different types and quantum of retail development set down in Retail Strategy (Appendix 4 and Map 1.7.2).

Retail development is an importance component of economic development in the County, as stated above. The Council has prepared a Retail Strategy 2011-2017 to coincide with the review of the County Development Plan 2011-2017 which sets out retail treŶĚƐ ƚŽ ĚĂƚĞ͕ ƚŚĞ ŽƵŶĐŝů͛Ɛ ŽďũĞĐƚŝǀĞƐ ĂŶĚ ĚĞƚĂŝůĞĚ policy in relation to retail development in the County for the next Plan period .There are significant opportunities for the development of further comparison shopping and retail warehousing in County Laois. Retail development is also essential in relation to community sustainability. One of the essential elements of the Retail Planning Guidelines 2005 is the retention and enhancement of the vitality and vibrancy of the town centre cores. The following table indicates the retail hierarchy within the County.

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Table 16: County Retail Hierarchy County Retail Hierarchy and Strategic Direction of Retail Development in Laois Status under County Town Action Status under RPGs Hierarchy Major Town Centre Portlaoise Reinforce and extend high Principal Town order retail functioning with particular emphasis on historic core. Enhancing retail appeal of the County by strengthening retail functions of Portlaoise County Town Centre Portarlington Encourage retail development Eastern Area commensurate with existing Key Service Town and anticipated growth, with particular emphasis on traditional core County Town Centre Mountmellick Sustain and enhance the Southern Area Abbeyleix vitality and viability of the Service Towns: Mountrath central parts of the town in Mountmellick Stradbally conjunction with the Abbeyleix Rathdowney utilisation of strategic Mountrath Durrow backland areas Stradbally Local Service Towns: Rathdowney Durrow District Centre Graiguecullen Develop joint and mutually Southern Area beneficial retail policies with Service Town Carlow County Council Graiguecullen Neighbourhood Kilminchy Encourage development of 7.8.3 Centres Fairgreen additional neighbourhood centres at Portlaoise: 7.8.1 Summerhill, Boghlone and 7.8.2 Northern Environs Portarlington: Sandy Lane, Canal Road Villages Arles, Ballinakill, Provide and retain essential 7.8.4 Ballylynan, shopping facilities in smaller Ballyroan, rural settlements Ballybrittas, Ballyfin, Borris in Ossory, Camross, Coolrain, Cullahill, Castletown, Emo, Errill, Killeshin, Killenard, Newtown Doonane, Timahoe, Swan, Shanahoe

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More than three quarters of approved retail floorspace in the County is located in Portlaoise and it is necessary to maintain that primacy in order to reduce leakage to competing towns of similar size in the surrounding counties.

RETAIL DEVELOPMENT It is the policy of the Council to EC 7 / P18 Have regard to its Retail Strategy 2011-2017 (Appendix 4 )and the Retail hierarchy contained therein (as indicated below) any subsequent review of same and the Retail Planning Guidelines 2005; EC 7 / P19 Implement the sequential approach, outlined below in relation to retail development exceeding 1000 sq m in Portlaoise and 500 sq m in settlements outside Portlaoise. The details of the sequential test are specified in the Retail Strategy 2011-2017. EC 7 / P20 Support the role of Portlaoise as the principal town and primary retail centre in County Laois and the focus for comparison retail development.

1st Preference: PRIMARY RETAIL CORE 2nd Preference: TOWN CENTRE REMAINDER 3rd Preference: EDGE OF CENTRE LOCATIONS 4th Preference: OUT OF CENTRE SITES

7.9 TOWN CENTRE AND VILLAGE CENTRE ECONOMY

Similar to retail development, commercial enterprises are also generally best suited to town centre locations. Service providers and general traders who locate in town centres will benefit from high footfall and the multiplier effect, whereby a member of the public may make a trip to a service provider for a particular purpose and may avail of additional services because of the wide range available within close proximity.

The provision of services such as Post Offices, community centres, town parks, playgrounds, libraries, ĐŚƵƌĐŚĞƐ͕ĐŝƚŝǌĞŶƐ͛ĂĚǀŝĐĞĐĞŶƚƌĞƐ͕ĐŚĂŵďĞƌƐŽĨĐŽŵŵĞƌĐĞĂŶĚŽƚŚĞƌƐĞƌǀŝĐĞƐƵŶĚĞƌƉŝŶƐƚŚĞĐĞŶƚƌĂůƌŽůĞŽĨ the town centre in the community and attracts people to the town centre. The provision of civic, religious, community or amenity functions in town centres, along with retail and commercial services lends itself to a synergistic relationship whereby diverse functions of the town centre are mutually supportive. These functions therefore reinforce the town centre economy.

Vacant, dilapidated or derelict buildings detract from the appearance of the town centre and may be harmful to its vitality and vibrancy. The Council will utilise its powers under the Derelict Sites Act 1990 to effect improvement in the appearance of derelict buildings.

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The introduction of community gardens or allotments should be encouraged. They nurture intergenerational and cross cultural relationships as well as re-skilling residents in the art of growing food, composting, harvesting rainwater, preserving food and seasonal cooking among other things. This also addresses economic contraction as the re-skilling results in more food growing lowering outgoings within the home. This transition will lead to locally manufactured and produced goods, especially food. Re-skilling in organic food production would greatly benefit all residents from an economic and social point of view

Markets Squares of towns in Laois such as Portlaoise, Portarlington, Mountrath, Abbeyleix and Stradbally are an indicator of the historic function of these settlements in providing an arena for farmers to sell agricultural products locally. Local markets represent an opportunity for the resurgence of the local economies for a number of reasons. Local entrepreneurs could start up a food or craft-based business without significant overheads and with ready access to customers. Markets provide an opportunity for local farmers to sell basic commodities as well as develop value-added products to local customers and visitors. The location of markets in town centres will encourage people into the town centre and could lead to spin- off trade among established town centre retailers and other traders. Overall markets can potentially make a significant contribution to the vitality and vibrancy of town centres and the general local economy.

TOWN AND VILLAGE CENTRE DEVELOPMENT It is the policy of the Council to EC 7 / P21 Encourage retail and commercial development in towns and village centres of a scale needed to serve the needs of local people of that centre; EC 7 / P22 Direct the location of new commercial enterprises to town centre locations, where a suitable site can be located and ensure that any plan or project associated with economic development of lands which has the potential to significantly affect a Natura 2000 site is appropriately assessed in accordance with Article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of the site; EC 7 / P23 Support the provision of civic, religious, community and amenity functions in town centres; EC 7 / P24 EŶĐŽƵƌĂŐĞ͞ůŝǀŝŶŐŽǀĞƌƚŚĞƐŚŽƉ͟7 whereby the use of the upper storeys of buildings are used for residential use with ground floor for commercial or retail uses; EC 7 / P25 Create a safe and welcoming town and village centre environment by way of passive surveillance of the street, street lighting and public realm improvement schemes, provision of litter receptacles and the management of the mixes of uses in town and village centres and main streets in order to protect and enhance the vitality and vibrancy of town and village centres; EC 7 / P26 Restrict the opening hours of Takeaways to 02.00a.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday morning and 00.00 on every other morning and encourage the provision of covered litter bins in or outside their premises (subject to license); EC 7 / P27 Enforce the Derelict Sites Act 1990 in relation to derelict sites throughout the County and Support the active and full use of town centre buildings and facilitate the redevelopment or reuse of vacant or derelict buildings in town centres, as appropriate;

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EC 7 / P28 Support the existing functioning markets on public lands and on private lands within town and village centres and encourage in principle the development of further markets8 or farmers markets in town centre locations throughout the Count EC 7 / P29 Actively seek out opportunities to assemble sites itself or in conjunction with local landowners and developers to facilitate town and village redevelopment and ensure that any plan or project associated with economic development which has the potential to significantly effect a Natura 2000 site is assessed in accordance with article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of that site. EC 7/ P30 Encourage community gardens/ allotments as a means to re-skilling residents in the art of growing food, composting, harvesting rainwater, preserving food and seasonal cooking among other things and encourage space for allotments in each new residential/mixed-use developments.

7.10 HOME BASED ECONOMIC ACTIVITY

The Council encourages the development of home-based economic activities in both urban and rural settings, which consists of the development of small-scale commercial uses that are carried out by residents and are subordinate to the main use of the property as a dwelling house. These activities are supported in principle, subject to environmental, traffic and amenity considerations.

Home-based Economic Activity It is the policy of the Council to EC 7 / P31 Support home based economic activities subject to environmental, traffic and residential amenity considerations without undermining land zoned for commercial uses.

7.11 LAND-BASED RURAL ECONOMY AND DIVERSIFICATION

Most land in rural areas is associated with one or more economic activities such as farming, forestry and quarrying. The character of the rural landscape is in large part shaped by these economic activities and in particular by farming. Unlike in urban areas where industrial uses that generate noise and odour can be clearly separated from residential uses which are emission-sensitive through land use objectives, this robust system of separating uses is not managed in the same manner in unzoned rural areas and as a result conflicting uses are more likely to occur in close proximity.

Resource-based Economic Activities It is the policy of the Council to EC 7 / P32 Reconcile the need for resource-based economic activities to conduct a reasonable operation and the needs of residents in rural areas to access a good quality of life;

8 Markets on public lands must be designated as casual trading areas under the Casual Trading Act 1995. Markets on private lands sometimes require Planning permission depending on specific circumstances.

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EC 7 / P33 Have regard to Landscape Character Assessment (attached in Appendix 6), as well as more general Planning considerations, such as transport, environmental sensitivities, in its determination of Planning applications.

7.12 AGRICULTURE

Although employment in agriculture is declining, it remains an important sector and significant employer in County Laois. Background papers to a new national strategy indicate that agriculture and the manufacturing of food and drink products may play a more central role in the future economic development of the country. Although Ireland has traditionally been a food exporter, concerns about the environmental cost of transporting food are leading to increased consumer interest in sourcing local food. Concern about food quality and supporting the local economy is also a factor in the interest in locally- produced food. The Council promotes the role of town centres as markets for local agriculture produce as they are mutually beneficial to town centres and their rural hinterland.

The Council recognises the importance of agriculture for sustaining, enhancing and maintaining a viable rural economy. The Council will support and facilitate agricultural restructuring and diversification within the framework of the 2020 Strategy (Department of Agriculture 2010), in order to integrate the sector more closely with rural development, in pursuit of environmental and social objectives. This approach accords with national policy as set out in the National Sustainable Development Strategy. The Council supports the emphasis in the National Development Plan on investment, on measures for improving farm structures, including farm waste management, animal welfare, food quality and environmental protection, complementing the substantial investment in REPS. The optimum and environmentally sensitive use of land no longer required for agriculture will be a key issue over the Plan period. Laois County Council will support the production of energy crops on set aside land throughout the County.

Agriculture It is the policy of the Council to EC 7 / P34 Support the expansion and diversification of the agricultural sector into areas such as forestry, alternative energy enterprises, tourism amenities, etc and ensure that any plan or project associated with the economic development of lands which has the potential to significantly affect a Natura 2000 site is appropriately assessed in accordance with Article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of the site;; EC 7 / P35 Support Commercial development associated with agriculture, such as the processing of agricultural commodities for food, drinks and other value-added products and the sale of commodities and value-added produce from the farm subject to environmental, traffic and general Planning considerations; EC 7 / P36 Support the establishment of enterprises associated with the provision of allotments outside the development envelop the urban population of Laois for cultivation EC 7 / P37 Support the agri-food industry to promote local food production EC 7 / P38 Support entrepreneurship in alternative energy generation. 7.13 FORESTRY

Forests and woodlands are a natural resource which can provide commercial, recreational, environmental, amenity and aesthetic benefits. There is considerable potential to develop this sector in County Laois from its current relatively low base. The Council recognises the importance of forestry, its value added potential, and the opportunities it offers for on-farm diversification.

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EĂƚŝŽŶĂů ŐŽǀĞƌŶŵĞŶƚ͛Ɛ ŝŶƚĞƌĞƐƚ ŝŶ ƐƵƉƉŽƌƚŝŶŐ ĨŽƌĞƐƚƌǇ ŝƐ clear from the grant aid allocated to forestry developments and in national policy documents with ambitious forestry targets (17% of national land cover by 2035 with a 30% broadleaf component). Only 10% of land cover in Ireland is forested compared with an EU average of 36%. Of the Planted forests, currently only 21% are broadleaf. Laois has a history of extensive forested lands; it retains substantial swathes of woodland of nature conservation importance and a substantial amount of conifer Plantations.

Emphasis on forestry has increased because of its role in economic development and employment and the potential of forestry to sequester carbon, thereby offsetting the production of green house gases such as methane, nitrous oxide and carbon dioxide. The benefits arising from carbon sequestration must be balanced against the need to carefully manage forestry so that it does not result in local environmental damage to soil, water quality or biodiversity.

Planted forests are popular as amenity areas, according to the Tree Council of Ireland Every year, there are almost 8 million visits by Irish residents to Irish forests. National government is focused on increasing the proportion of renewable energy produced, which includes biomass production and forestry. The consumption of renewable energy is already prioritized over other forms of energy by Eirgrid.

The Council will have regard to Native Riparian Woodlands - A Guide to Identification, Design, Establishment and Management, current suite of Forest Service Guidelines, the Code of Good Forestry Practice, the Forestry Schemes Manual and the River Basin Management Plans for the South East and the Shannon Region, as well as other Planning policies in determining forestry proposals that require Planning permission.

Forestry It is the policy of the Council to EC 7 / P39 Support in principle the expansion of the forestry sector in line with national policy documents and in particular support an increase in the broadleaf component to 30% and ensure that any plan or project associated with the economic development of lands which has the potential to significantly affect a Natura 2000 site is appropriately assessed in accordance with Article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of the site; EC 7/ P40 Consider proposals for commercial development associated with forestry such as air or kilns seasoning, timber pellet production and saw mills. These will be open for consideration in rural areas in proximity to large forested areas which are used for source material; EC 7/ P41 Ensure adequate buffer zones around water bodies are provided for conifer Plantations, where Planning permission is required. EC 7 / P42 Encourage access to forestry, including private forestry, in co-operation with Coillte and other agencies for amenity and recreational purposes including the provision of walking routes, mountain trails, bridle paths, nature trails, hiking, orienteering and other non noise- generating activities which is of benefit to local people and tourists and ensure that any plan or project associated with increasing recreational access to forestry which has the potential to significantly effect a Natura 2000 site is assessed in accordance with article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of that site. EC 7/ P43 Forestry should not obstruct existing rights of way, traditional walking routes and other recreational facilities and should recognize recreational tourism value on the land. EC 7/ P44 Recognise and encourage the role of forestry in providing recreational amenities and achieving the social objectives laid out in the plan

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EC 7 / P45 Identify existing rights of way and established walking routes before planting commences. EC 7 / P46 The convergence of the forest edge and the skyline shall be avoided. EC 7 / P47 On steep slopes above the 300 metre line planting will be strongly discouraged and where possible existing areas under forestry will be reduced and/or redesigned following clear felling. EC 7 / P48 Protect access routes to upland walks and rights of way.

7.14 ALTERNATIVE ENERGY

A number of underground mines (Galmoy and Rossmore mines) and flooded quarries are located in County Laois. Low-temperature geothermal energy associated with mine sites and flooded pits may be readily exploitable, by way of various ground source heat pump designs which exchange geothermal energy using ground, surface or closed loop water.

Bord na Mona are at present examining the feasibility of CHP Plants which would be fired by environmentally positive low carbon fuels such as Biomass. These Plants produce electricity and heat which can be used to heat commercial, industrial or residential units. Bord na Mona Plans a significant development of its power generation business. The generation of energy from Renewable sources will be a key component of this. They are reviewing their land bank in this context and identifying a number of locations within the region that can offer potential for wind farm developments.

Alternative Energy Enterprise It is the Policy of the Council to EC 7 / P49 Support the expansion of the wind energy9 industry in Laois and ensure that any plan or project associated with wind energy which has the potential to significantly affect a Natura 2000 site is appropriately assessed in accordance with Article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of the site; EC 7 / P50 Support in principle the harnessing of geothermal energy as a commercial enterprise subject to general Planning and environmental considerations.

7.15 PEATLANDS

The Council recognizes the importance of the peatlands as a major natural and archaeological resource and its critical role ĂƐ ĂŶ ĞŵƉůŽǇŵĞŶƚ ŐĞŶĞƌĂƚŽƌ͘ dŚĞ ĚĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ŽƵŶƚǇ͛Ɛ ƉĞĂƚ ƌĞƐŽƵƌĐĞƐ ǁŝůů ďĞ promoted and facilitated. The Council also recognizes the potential of peatland areas for tourism, amenity, educational and research purposes.

9 Refer to wind energy strategy in Appendix 5 as a guide to suitable areas for wind energy production.

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Bord na Mona owns c 2,500 ha of peatlands in the County. The most extensive areas are adjacent to the Cúl na Mona facility on the outskirts of Portlaoise. Milled peat is produced as a feedstock for the energy and fuels business as well as to provide the raw material for the Horticulture business which exports c 90% of the products it produces. All peat production operations are carried out in line with IPPC licences.

Killamuck Bog south of Abbeyleix, accessible from the N8, was handed over to the Community of Abbeyleix in order to provide an amenity for the town.

Peatlands offer the opportunity to contribute to the diversification of the rural economy. They could potentially accommodate large scale energy production in the form of wind farms and bio energy fuel sources. The Laois Wind Energy Strategy has indicated many of the County's peatland areas as areas preferred for wind energy development. (Refer to Appendix 5:Wind Energy Strategy 2011-2017).

PEATLANDS It is the Policy of the Council to EC 7 / P51 Support the development of peatlands within County Laois for appropriate alternative uses subject to general Planning and environmental considerations and nature considerations and ensure that any plan or project associated with open space planning or tourism which has the potential to significantly affect a Natura 2000 site is appropriately assessed in accordance with Article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of the site and environmental legislation. EC 7 / P52 Support the development of sustainable Holistic Management Plan for the future use of the industrialised Peatlands in the Midlands Region and ensure that any plan or project associated with such a plan which has the potential to significantly effect a Natura 2000 site is assessed in accordance with article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of that site.

7.16 MINERAL AGGREGATES

The Council recognises that the aggregate and concrete products industry contribute to the development of the national, regional and local economies by the proper use and management of natural resources for the benefit of the community and the creation of employment opportunities. These products are required as essential building materials in the social and economic development process including the provision of housing and infrastructure. Laois County Council will seek to safeguard these valuable resources for future extraction.

The National Guidelines on Quarries and Ancillary Activities for Planning Authorities 2004 (DOEHLG) forms the guiding document against which applications for quarries and ancillary activities will be considered.

As indicated in Chapter 3 of this Plan, the mineral extraction and processing industry is an important ĐŽŵƉŽŶĞŶƚŽĨƚŚĞŽƵŶƚǇ͛ƐƌƵƌĂůĞĐŽŶŽŵǇĂŶĚŝƐĂŶŝŵƉŽƌƚĂŶƚĞŵƉůŽǇŵĞŶƚƉƌŽǀŝĚĞƌ͘

Where the expected life of the proosed quarry exceeds 5 years it will normally be appropriate to grant permission for a longer period (such as 10 years or more), particularly where major capital investment is required at the outset. In deciding the length of the planning permission, the Council will take account of the expected life of the reserves within the site. The purpose of setting a finite period is not to anticipate that extraction should not continue after the expiry of that period, but rather to enable the planning authority, in conjunction with the developer and environmental authorities, to review changes in environmental standards and technology since the original permission was granted. In considering

103 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017 whether a further permission should be granted, the planning authority should have regard (inter alia) to the following factors: a) The extent of the remaining mineral resources and b) The extent of existing capital investment in infrastructure, equipment, etc c) Policy TT10/P11 in relation to road safety or protection of efficiency and capacity on the national road network.

Mineral Extraction and Processing It is the policy of the Council to EC 7 / P53 Support in principle the expansion of -aggregates and concrete products industry which offers opportunity for employment and economic development generally and ensure that any plan or project associated with extractive industry which has the potential to significantly affect a Natura 2000 site is appropriately assessed in accordance with Article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of the site; EC 7 / P54 Support in principle the processing of minerals to produce cement, bitumen or other products in the vicinity of the source of the aggregate, where the transport network is suitable to reduce trip generation. EC 7 / P55 Ensure that the development of aggregate extraction, processing and associated concrete production does not significantly impact on established rights of way and walking routes.

7.17 ADVERTISING

Certain types of advertisements can cause particular harm to the appearance of buildings and the streetscape. The Council will therefore discourage the following: a) Free-standing advertisements on forecourts, streets or public roads; b) Signs or advertisements above fascia level, and more than one projecting sign per unit; c) Overuse of directional signs, particularly sale or letting signs; and d) Billboards.

Chapter 16 of this Plan outlines advertising that will be encouraged within County Laois.

In respect of signs on public property the Council will require all signs to have a licence under Section 254 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended). Once licensed, the sign must display the licence number and the sign may be sited at one location and removed and reused indefinitely under the licence.

Billboards constitute one of the most obtrusive elements of all forms of advertisements. They rely on their impact on size, scale and location and these are usually detrimental to the character of the area in which they are situated. However, the Council may allow temporary poster boards where they are used to screen a building site or temporarily enclosed area.

Advertising It is the policy of the Council to EC 7 / P56 Manage advertising if: a) by reason of size, siting, design, materials or illumination it would harm the appearance of a building or the visual amenities of the area; b) it would adversely affect public or traffic safety

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8 TOURISM

CORE AIM Build on the tourism opportunities of County Laois in a balanced and sustainable manner

8.1 INTRODUCTION

At County level, tourism in County Laois is relatively undeveloped by comparison with other counties and the main destinations in Dublin, the West and the South West. This is due to a number of factors such as a perceived limited range of attractions, a low base of hotel and other registered accommodation, the absence of a tourism tradition and the lack of an extensive base of professional tourism providers.

There is significant potential to grow the tourism sector in County Laois. The Tourism Strategy for the County has identified strengths and opportunities that will benefit the local economy and make the most of its location on the national transport links. The key recommendations of the Laois Tourism Strategy 2006 - 2010 are: x To actively involve the private tourism sector of Laois in the strategy development process; x To encourage all sectors of business in Laois to become involved in the expansion of the tourism sector , not just the accommodation sector and activity business but also retailing , food and beverage and the general public; x To implement a coordinated approach to the development of Laois as a distinctly appealing tourism destination within the Midland East Tourism Region; x To identify how joint development and marketing initiatives are to be funded and how to sustain the funding over the initial 3-5 year of emerging market strategies; x To devise an implementation process for emerging development and investment Plans. dŚĞŽƵŶĐŝů͛ƐƐƚƌĂƚĞŐǇŝƐĐŽŶĐĞƌŶĞĚǁŝƚŚŵĂŝŶƚĂŝŶŝŶŐĞǆŝƐƚŝŶŐƚŽƵƌŝƐŵĨĂĐŝůŝƚŝĞƐĂŶĚĨŽĐƵƐŝŶŐŽŶƚŚĞƚŚĞŵĞƐ and locations that present the best opportunities to facilitate growth.

The number of overseas visitors to Ireland in 2006 wĂƐϴ͘ϴŵŝůůŝŽŶ͘dŚĞƚŽƚĂůŶƵŵďĞƌŽĨŽǀĞƌƐĞĂƐǀŝƐŝƚŽƌ͛ƐƚŽ Laois in 2008 was 53,000 with the greatest number originating in the UK. This generated 21 million in revenue to the local economy. Data for domestic tourism is available only at regional level, extrapolating from the Midlands and East regional figures, it is estimated that there were 57,900 domestic trips to County Laois in 2008 with associated expenditure of 10.78 million.

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Britain

Mainland Europe

North America

Other Areas

Source CSO Ireland 2008 Figure 3 Overseas Visitors to Laois, 2008

The Council is focused on the following areas in particular: x Slieve Blooms with towns such as Mountrath and Clonaslee providing supporting tourist amenities and facilities. x Waterways supporting towns and villages such as Durrow, Portarlington, Vicarstown, Mountrath and Castletown. x Event Management: festivals, sporting events, conferences, weddings, corporate retreats x Additional Heritage Assets including historic towns x Commercial Tourist Attractions

Both human beings and recreational pursuits in sensitive areas can potentially have an adverse effect. ,ŽǁĞǀĞƌ͕ ŝƚ ŝƐ ƚŚĞ ŽƵŶĐŝů͛Ɛ ǀŝĞǁ ƚŚĂƚ ƉŽƚĞŶƚŝĂů ƐŝŐŶŝĨŝĐĂŶƚ ĂĚǀĞƌƐĞ ĞĨĨĞĐƚƐ ĐĂŶ ďĞ ĂǀŽŝĚĞĚ ďǇ ǁĂǇ ŽĨ sensitive design, low-impact engineering solutions, advisory signage and visitor management strategies, as appropriate. The Council is mindful that there is an incentive to maintain the integrity of heritage assets in the medium and long-term for the economic benefit of the County, as well as for environmental and social reasons.

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The objectives set to achieve for the development of the tourism product in the County are as follows:

TM 8 / O01 To implement the County Laois Tourism Strategy 2005; TM 8 / O02 To develop an Action Area Plan for the Slieve Bloom Environmental Park in association with Offaly County Council iIn order to promote its tourism potential TM 8 / O03 To continue to grow the Festival theme within the County through the implementation of the Business Development Plan for Festivals over the next 5 year period; TM 8 / O04 To co-operate with Fáilte Ireland , Shannon Development, Offaly Local Authorities and other relevant bodies and agencies in promoting the Slieve Blooms as a biking destination within the Midlands Region in respect of an overall tourism and development and marketing strategy and ensure that any plan or project associated with open space planning, recreation or tourism which has the potential to significantly effect a Natura 2000 site is assessed in accordance with article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of that site; TM 8 / O05 To identify walking, cycling and driving trails between historic towns and village and protect the natural resources upon which tourism is based through the enforcement of policies in relation to resource protection , landscape character assessment , architectural conservation areas, water quality and ensure that any plan or project associated with open space planning or tourism which has the potential to significantly affect a Natura 2000 site is appropriately assessed in accordance with Article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of the site; TM 8 / O06 To improve the attractiveness of the historic towns and villages through the implementation of the policies and objectives as set out in the Village Design Statements(VDS) carried out for Durrow and Clonaslee and the Architectural Conservation Areas(ACA) as proposed for the towns discussed in Chapter 14; TM 8 / O07 To co-operate with Fáilte Ireland , Waterways Ireland and other relevant bodies and agencies in promoting the waterways product of the County in respect of an overall tourism and development and marketing strategy which would include participation in various websites such as www.; TM 8 / O08 To support best practice environmental management including energy efficiency, waste management and procurement and recycling in tourism enterprises / accommodation providers throughout the County; TM 8 / O09 To work with relevant and interested parties to implement specific tourism and leisure projects.

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Map 1.8.1: Sustainable Tourism Strategy Map

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Table 17 Tourism Assets of the County

Key Archaeological Assets Architectural Assets Natural Assets Heritage Monastic heritage including Emo Court and gardens Slieve Blooms Nature Reserve with Assets Abbey at Aghaboe, intact walks at: Round Tower at Timahoe and Monicknew fine Romanesque doorway at Glenbarrow Killeshin The Cut

Viking Longphort known as Heywood Gardens Timahoe Esker Nature Reserve with Dunrally Fort close to walk Vicarstown Rock of Dunamaise with Castledurrow, Ballyfin, Granstown Nature Reserve with walk Norman Influences Abbeyleix, Stradbally Hall, Roundwood House demesnes Maryborough Fort and St &ŝŶĞ 'ĞŽƌŐŝĂŶ ^ƋƵĂƌĞ͗ K͛ŽŶŶŽƌ Waterways: Nore, Erkina and Barrow WĞƚĞƌ͛Ɛ ŚƵƌĐŚ ĂŶĚ ŐƌĂǀĞǇĂƌĚ Square Mountmellick including its source and smaller associated with Plantation of streams. Laois-Offaly Grand Canal

Small lakes at Ballinakill, Brittas House, Ballyfin Tower houses at Lea, Cullahill Proposed Architectural Wetlands walks at Slieve Blooms, and Ballaghmore Conservation Areas at Portlaoise, Killamuck, Portarlington and the Derries Abbeyleix and Durrow Fortified houses at Brittas House,

Industrial Archaeology Historic town and villages such Woodlands open to the public: Donaghmore Workhouse and as Portarlington, Mountrath Agricultural Museum Market Square, Clonaslee, Oughaval Wood, Ballinakill, Emo, Timahoe and Carrick Wood Mill Buildings at Mountmellick, Stradbally Dunmore Wood Castletown, Donaghmore Garryhinch Wood Brittas Wood Exhibits at Stradbally Steam Togher Wood Museum, Work Museum Capponellan Mountmellick and Heritage Forest and Lake Walk Centre Abbeyleix Heritage Trails, Sli Dala, ancient Coolbanagher Church, Emo Subtle landscape of rolling hills, river travelling route extant in places basins and their floodplains, expansive flat areas, upland areas

Midland Regional Hospital On road and off-road walking and cycling routes open up the countryside to rural tourism 8.1.1 Walks mapped on Laois Tourism www.laoistourism.ie Sli na Slainte Coillte

8.2 SLIEVE BLOOM MOUNTAINS

111 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017 peregrine, merlin and red grouse, are a biogenetic reserve of European importance, and wetlands of international importance.

The Slieve Blooms are a distinctive element of the Laois landscape and contain the source of the River Barrow. Existing amenity areas, walking routes and car parks are in place and plans are in place to create an off road cycling network and related facilities.

A policy statement for the Slieve Blooms was drawn up in cooperation with Offaly County Council in 1995. This policy reflects the desire to coordinate and control the competing land uses, to develop the physical infrastructure in a manner that is sympathetic to the intrinsic character of the area and to secure the maximum economic benefit to the area.

8.3 WATERWAYS

The Nore, the Barrow, the Erkina and the Grand Canal flow through Laois and are an important element of the Laois landscape. A number of these waterways are protected habitats or contain protected species. River banks and their vegetation provide important habitats for protected species such as otters and kingfishers. Some of the bridges spanning the rivers are considered structures of architectural merit. Existing walks along or in vicinity of waterways include wooded area at Garryhinch, Durrow leafy loop and the canal towpath at Vicarstown.

Riverside amenity areas are in place at Portarlington and Mountrath. The canal is navigable by barge, while the Nore, Barrow and Erkina are navigable by canoes and kayaks, though no slips are in place to facilitate this. Angling is popular in Laois with a number of established clubs. Angling is one of the main attractions for visitors to County Laois.

8.4 FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

Events are already well-catered for in Laois. Events held in Laois in the past few years include festivals such as Electric Picnic, Magnet Festival, Laois Walking Festival, Regional Final of the Rose of Tralee Competition and the National Sheep Shearing Festival. Durrow Community Forum have over the past few years ƉƌŽŵŽƚĞĚĂŚŝŐŚƋƵĂůŝƚǇŝŶŶŽǀĂƚŝǀĞĐŽŵŵƵŶŝƚǇĨĞƐƚŝǀĂůƌĞĨĞƌƌĞĚƚŽĂƐƚŚĞ͞,ŽǁǇĂ͟ĨĞƐƚŝǀĂů͘>ĂŽŝƐ͛ĐĞŶƚƌĂů geographic location and its transport links make it a strategic choice for hosting festivals and events.

Good quality conferencing, leisure, hospitality and catering facilities are available in Portlaoise, Abbeyleix, Durrow, Killenard and at Country House Hotels in rural areas. In addition land has been allocated for leisure and hospitality uses at Togher.

In addressing the issue of developing the festival theme in County Laois the following objectives need to be achieved: x Spotlight Portlaoise; x Be intrinsically Laois at its core; x Be driven and supported by the local people; x Have real presence in Portlaoise when it is on; x Highlight the great local resources in Laois; x Grow organically over time; x Have National profile.

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8.5 HISTORIC TOWNS AND VILLAGES

A number of the historic towns and villages are located on the Heritage Trail of the County and have much to offer - Abbeyleix, Clonaslee, Durrow, Emo, Mountmellick, Mountrath, Portarlington, Portlaoise, Rathdowney and Stradbally. Many beautiful heritage sites have been restored for the public to enjoy such as Emo Court and Gardens and Timahoe Round Tower, while others, such as Castledurrow, have been sensitively restored. There is also an abundance of monuments to be visited that bear testament to the County's historical legacy. In more recent times, small museums and heritage centres have sprung up throughout the County. Laois Heritage Trail, the Garden Heritage of County Laois and maps of Mountmellick and Portlaoise Heritage Trails are available on the heritage of some of the popular towns and villages throughout the County.

8.6 COMMERCIAL TOURISM ASSETS

County Laois has a wide variety of recreational and sporting activities available to tourists such as traditional sports, walking, cycling, equestrian (point to points at Stradbally Hall) canoeing, etc. Golf has been played in County Laois since the 1890's and a variety of courses are located throughout the county. Each year the Laois International Golf Challenge takes place in May. Laois offers excellent equine facilities. The landscape is ideal for horse riding or trekking.

8.7 SUSTAINABLE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT

The following five principles encapsulate the need to achieve a balance between appropriate tourism development and economic, environmental and social sustainability. Sustainable tourism planning requires a balance to be struck between the needs of the visitor, the place and the host community.

8.8 HOLIDAY HOMES

Holiday homes will normally be encouraged in existing settlements where services are available. In addition, the Council will look favourably on the conversion of derelict houses and/or farm buildings to commercial holiday home usage where the design and scale is appropriate to the surrounding area, in particular the enhancement of vernacular architecture will be encouraged.

Tourism It is the Policy of the Council to TM 8 / P01 Support the implementation of the Regional Tourism Plan for the East Coast and Midlands, 2008 - 2010 and future publications with the aim of increasing overseas and domestic visitor numbers and emphasising the direct urban links between domestic and international centres and the County ʹ and wider Tourism Region; TM 8 / P02 Promote more balanced County-wide development of tourism infrastructure to ensure that tourism is used as an economic driver enabling the achievement of more self-sustaining centres throughout the County and protect the natural resources upon which tourism is based through the enforcement of policies in relation to resource protection , landscape character assessment , architectural conservation areas, water quality and ensure that any plan or project associated with open space planning or tourism which has the potential to significantly affect a Natura 2000 site is appropriately assessed in accordance with Article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of the site; TM 8 / P03 Identify the principal tourism hubs and nodes within the County, and the primary transport linkages between them. Encourage clustering of tourism products and services within

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identified hubs and nodes to increase linkages within and reduce leakage from, the local economy; TM 8 / P04 Liaise with strategic partners such as Fáilte Ireland , Waterways Ireland ,the National Parks and Wildlife Services, the Regional Fisheries Board, Coillte , Office of Public Works , etc. on the identification of land use strategies for areas focussing on the tourism, environmental and heritage value of these areas; TM 8 / P05 Protect the natural amenities upon which tourism is based through the enforcement of polices in relation to resource protection; landscape character assessment; architectural conservation areas; water quality; and biodiversity; TM 8 / P06 Identify settlements or areas of special character, where this special character is recognised as a particular tourism asset, which may require localised Planning schemes such as Local Area Plans, Village Design Statements, Design Guidelines, etc. as tools to ensure the long- term protection and management of their special character; TM 8 / P07 Evaluate public transport provision and where appropriate provide support for alternatives to the use of private cars to access tourism hubs, nodes and attractions; TM 8 / P08 Facilitate infrastructure for water-based activities such as boating and water sports, ensuring compliance with the measures of the Southeast River Basin Management Plan and Shannon International River Basin Management Plan; TM 8 / P09 Facilitate the growth of outdoor and adventure activities within the County; TM 8 / P10 Evaluate the existing sustainable tourism attractions and support new eco-tourism initiatives in the County, particularly in the Slieve Bloom Mountains and for Rosmore to the Barrow via the Slieve Margy Way., including visitor accommodation and supplementary activities such as ŽƌŐĂŶŝĐͬĨĂƌŵĞƌ͛ƐŵĂƌŬĞƚƐ͕ŚĞĂůƚŚĨĂƌŵƐ͕ŚĞƌŝƚĂŐĞĂŶĚŶature trails, pony trekking and boating; ensuring that all built elements are appropriately designed and satisfactorily assimilated into the landscape and endeavor to have Laois feature on the Sustainable Tourism Ireland website to attract the growing eco tourism business. http://www.sustourism.ie/where.php; TM 8 / P11 Promote the development of new festivals and sporting events to increase the cultural and lifestyle profile of the County and ʹ where appropriate, to promote the development of new venues and locations to host these events; TM 8 / P12 Formulate, in association with Fáilte Ireland, a policy and strategy on tourist signage for the County; TM 8 / P13 Support the maintenance of existing walking routes and related facilities in the Slieve Blooms and the future amenity proposals; TM 8 / P14 Support the zoning of lands for tourism facilities in Mountrath and Clonaslee given the good level of services already available and proximity of these towns to service the Slieve Blooms; TM 8 / P15 ^ƵƉƉŽƌƚ ƚŚĞ ƵŶĚĞƌƐƚĂŶĚŝŶŐ ŽĨ͕ ĂĐĐĞƐƐ ƚŽ ĂŶĚ ƉƌŽŵŽƚŝŽŶ ŽĨ ŽƵŶƚǇ >ĂŽŝƐ͛ ĂƌĐŚĂĞŽůŽŐŝĐĂů assets, historic building assets and natural heritage assets; TM 8 / P16 Support in principle the development of sites in public or private ownership, which could become tourist or recreational attractions in their own right; TM 8 / P17 Encourage schemes of commercial holiday homes in serviced centres where piped water and sewerage is available. Holiday homes will however, be permitted on appropriate sites in rural areas, particularly as part of farm diversity schemes. The conversion of derelict houses to commercial holiday homes usage will generally be permitted. The use of vernacular architecture will be encouraged. In the event that it is considered that holiday homes constitute a threat to the permanent settled community, strict restrictions on their numbers will be imposed.

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TM 8 / P18 Develop the habitats in the Rosmore/ Killeshin Area as a key amenity which could be developed with Oisin Park as the focal point for an interpretative facility of site. Development of Killeshin waterworks as a recreatuional amenity for all ages including the incorporation of an angliong facility which would cater for the needs of all. TM 8 / P19 Maximize the use of canals and other waterways as tourism amenities. The Council will co- operate with Waterways Ireland, National Park and Wildlife Service and community groups to develop the infrastructure, quality and amenities of these waterways.

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9 ENERGY AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS

CORE AIM To identify the energy and telecommunications needs for the county and the manner in which the council can facilitate their development to ensure a secure energy and communications network to support the residents and future development needs of the county while fostering the transition to a lower carbon county.

9.1 INTRODUCTION

The availability of energy is of critical importance to the continued development and expansion of employment in County Laois. The two main energy networks serving the County are electricity and gas. With vastly increased residential development over the past decade especially and a drive for more industrial, commercial and employment generating uses, it is hugely important to ensure that the capacity of the energy networks is sufficient to meet these demands.

In relation to both renewable and non renewable power generation, County Laois is well placed to encourage and facilitate the development of power generation facilities in the County, mainly because of ƚŚĞ ŽƵŶƚǇ͛Ɛ ƉƌŽǆŝŵŝƚǇ ƚŽ ƵďůŝŶ ĂŶĚ ƚŚĞ ƉĂƐƐĂŐĞ ŽĨ Ă ŶƵŵďĞƌ ŽĨ ŐĂƐ ŵĂŝŶƐ ĂŶĚ ƚƌƵŶŬ ĞůĞŵĞŶƚƐ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ national grid through or in very close proximity to the County.

It is the objective of the Council to ET 9 / O01 To raise awareness within communities of the need to reverse fossil fuel dependency, to mitigate the effects of peak oil and economic contraction, and drastically reduce carbon emissions, to mitigate the effects of climate change. ET 9 / O02 To continue to support the Midlands Energy Agency in the promotion of energy efficiency initiatives within the County. ET 9 / O03 To encourage and facilitate the development of renewable power generation facilities in the County, including the support of non renewable energy developments where it is consistent with the proper Planning and sustainable development of the County and ensure that any plan or project associated with energy generation and supply which has the potential to significantly affect a Natura 2000 site is appropriately assessed in accordance with Article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of the site and environmental legislation; ET 9 / O04 To support the further extension of the gas network in County Laois to serve existing and future residential and commercial activities; ET 9 / O05 To support and facilitate the development of the electricity infrastructure to ensure a secure supply for the residents of County Laois and ensure that any plan or project associated with energy generation or supply which has the potential to significantly affect a Natura 2000 site is appropriately assessed in accordance with Article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of the site and environmental legislation ET 9 / O06 Ensure the provision of and access to basic and next generation broadband in Laois, in order to drive economic development and facilitate e-governance, e-working and distance-learning, by enabling the use of strategic infrastructure and local infrastructure for broadband provision, by securing funding where available and by working with state agencies, commercial telecommunications operators and developers.

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9.2 CLIMATE CHANGE

Climate change is now recognised as the most significant and threatening global environmental problem. In addition the impacts and predicted future impacts of over dependence on non-renewable energy sources are costly. They are likely to include significant increases in rainfall resulting in increased risk of flooding, rising sea levels, an increase in storm events, high levels of air pollutants and pressure on world economies as fossil fuel reserves are depleted.

/Ŷ ƌĞƐƉŽŶƐĞ ƚŽ ƚŚŝƐ ƚŚĞ <ǇŽƚŽ WƌŽƚŽĐŽů ŚĂƐ ŝŵƉŽƐĞĚ ƚĂƌŐĞƚƐ ŽŶ /ƌĞůĂŶĚ͛Ɛ ŐƌĞĞŶŚŽƵƐĞ ŐĂƐ ĞŵŝƐsions. The National Climate Change Strategy 2007-2012 highlights the need for a radical strategy to meet the climate change commitments made in the Kyoto Protocol. The Council recognizes that it can make an important and positive contribution towards initiating climate change action in land use Planning, transport, services Planning, housing provision, energy Planning and awareness raising.

In an overall context, this Development Plan seeks to simultaneously address issues of climate change, energy supply, sustainability and competitiveness through the adoption and implementation of policy at a local level. The Plan also aims to facilitate, promote and achieve a reasonable balance between responding to central Government policy on renewable energy and ĞŶĂďůŝŶŐĞŶĞƌŐǇƌĞƐŽƵƌĐĞƐǁŝƚŚŝŶƚŚĞŽƵŶĐŝů͛ƐĂƌĞĂ to be harnessed in a manner that is in accordance with the principles of proper Planning and sustainable development. dŚĞŽƵŶĐŝů͛ƐƐƵƉƉŽƌƚŽĨƌĞŶĞǁĂďůĞƚĞĐŚŶŽůŽŐŝĞƐĂŶĚĞŶĐŽƵƌĂŐĞŵĞŶƚŽĨŵŽƌĞƐƵƐƚĂŝŶĂďůĞ energy-efficient building methods will further reduce our dependence on non-renewable energy sources.

All new developments must allow for Climate Change as set out in the Greater Dublin Sustainable Drainage Systems Technical Documents, Volume 5 Climate Change and must take proper account of its potential effects on the existing flood regime where necessary. It is widely accepted that current levels of greenhouse gas emissions i.e. carbon dioxide, methane are exacerbating global temperature rises. Use of non-renewable fossil fuels is the prime generator of greenhouse gases.

There is a shift towards the use of renewable energy sources and whilst County Laois may seem very small ŝŶƚŚĞĐŽŶƚĞǆƚŽĨŐůŽďĂůŐƌĞĞŶŚŽƵƐĞŐĂƐĞŵŝƐƐŝŽŶƐ͕ƚŚĞƉŚƌĂƐĞ͞ƚŚŝŶŬŐůŽďĂůůǇ͙ĂĐƚůŽĐĂůůǇ͟ŝƐŝŵƉŽƌƚĂŶƚ͘

The major sectors that have contributed to greenhouse gas emissions over the last 15- 20 years in Ireland are as follows: x Transport x Energy x Agriculture x Waste x Industrial / commercial services x Residential

9.2.1 National Climate Change Strategy 2007-2012

The National Climate Change Strategy 2007-2012 builds on the commitment to sustainable development set out in Towards 2016 and the National Development Plan 2007-2013 and is one of a number of interrelated Government initiatives that address energy and climate change issues.

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9.2.2 Laois County Climate Change Strategy 2009

Laois County Council aims to tackle climate change by reducing energy consumption and CO2 emissions by 3% per annum, in line with the National Climate Change Strategy. This will be achieved by a targeted reduction across the following sectors: a) Energy Usage b) Transport c) Housing/Building d) Planning e) Raising Awareness f) Waste Management

Many of the actions set out in the Strategy require very little funding, while others need some initial investment in facilities and infrastructure in order to obtain a return in energy savings in future years. In such cases, the level of investment will depend on the availability of financial resources. The Strategy will be reviewed at the beginning of each year and will be adjusted, where necessary, to take account of changing circumstances. In order to assess the effectiveness of the Strategy, energy usage will be measured by the Midlands Energy Agency.

9.3 MIDLAND ENERGY AGENCY (MEA)

The Midland Energy Agency is funded by and serves Laois, Offaly, Westmeath and Longford County Councils. The aim of the Agency is to promote and develop energy conservation and renewable energy for the region, coupled with meeting important Climate Change targets.

Over the past two years the focus has been on projects which reduce the everyday energy consumption and cost within the four local authorities. Typical projects include energy audits and improvements on waste water treatment Plants, water supply sites, public lighting and buildings. The agency is also involved in developing Key Performance indicators for water and wastewater sites, along with producing Display Energy Certificates for local authority buildings over 1000m2 to comply with the Energy Performance Buildings Directive.

In August 2009 the agency joined other local energy agencies in a regional tender for supply of electricity to Local Authority sites. The regional tender for the supply of energy to local authority street lighting was also launched. All of the local authorities involved will make significant savings from these tenders in 2010. Total savings achieved by the Agency by the end of 2010 will be in ĞǆĐĞƐƐŽĨΦϳϬϬ͕ϬϬϬ͘

9.4 RENEWABLE ENERGY

The development of renewable energy sources is a priority at National and European level for both environmental and energy policy reasons. The National Development Plan and Midland Regional Planning Guidelines 2010 set out a number of objectives for the provision of electricity from renewable and indigenous sources. The development of renewable sources of energy offers: x Sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels, x A means of reducing harmful greenhouse gas emissions in line with the provisions of the National Climate Change Strategy and x Opportunities to reduce over-reliance on imported fuels.

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Renewable energy comes from natural sources that are continuously replenished by nature. The main sources of renewable energy are the wind, the sun (solar energy), water (hydropower, wave and tidal energy), heat below the surface of the earth (geothermal energy) and biomass (wood, biodegradable waste and energy crops). The potential feasible renewable energy options for County Laois include but are not limited to a balanced mix of: x Wind Energy; x Bio energy -crops, forestry; x Biomass - anaerobic digestion, combined heat and power (CHP); x Hydro energy - small and micro hydro systems; x Solar - passive solar heating, active solar heating; x Waste - landfill methane gas collection, anaerobic digesters; x Geothermal.

9.4.1 Wind Energy

Wind energy is regarded as the biggest potential contributor to the expansion of the renewable energy sector in the County. An eight turbine wind farm with a projected electricity output of 20 MW has been developed in the south-east of the County while there is a current Planning application for a four turbine wind farm with a projected electricity output of 10 MW being considered for a site in the south-west of the County (See Map 1.9.1).

Laois County Council has prepared a Wind Energy Strategy for County Laois (See Appendix 5). The Strategy strongly advocates a formal Plan led approach to wind energy development in the County, as recommended in national guidelines. In addition, it identifies those areas within the County [predominantly upland and worked-out peatland] that are eminently suitable for this form of energy production.

9.4.2 Hydro Energy

Regarding hydro energy specifically, the Council will seek to respond positively to applications in the context of a sustainable energy policy. In responding to applications, the Council will seek to ensure that the free passage of fish is provided for by incorporating a fish pass where considered necessary in consultation with the relevant Fisheries Board and the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources.

9.4.3 Biomass

Biomass in various forms is a key renewable energy resource. The Council supports the potential of growing Biomass crops on cutaway bogs and at other suitable locations.

The Council supports the use of Combined Heat and Power (CHP) Plants which would be fired by environmentally friendly low carbon fuels such as Biomass. These Plants produce electricity and heat which can be used to heat commercial, industrial or residential units.

9.4.4 Solar Energy

Solar energy can provide a sustainable source of energy for buildings and reduces demand for electricity supply from the national grid. Solar energy is achieved by the manner in which glass and other materials

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ĂŶĚƐƚƌƵĐƚƵƌĞƐĂƌĞƵƚŝůŝƐĞĚƚŽĐĂƉƚƵƌĞĂŶĚŵĂŐŶŝĨǇƚŚĞƐƵŶ͛ƐĞŶĞƌŐǇ͘dŚƌĞĞďĂƐŝĐƚĞĐŚŶŝƋƵĞƐĂƌĞƵƐĞĚƚŽĚĂǇ to harness solar energy and gain maximum benefit from solar energy in buildings: x Passive Solar x Active Solar Heating x Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems

The Council encourages such methods in the provision of renewable energy, subject to design and other considerations, over the Plan period.

9.4.5 Ground Sources Heating Systems

The Council will encourage the provision of ground source heat pumps, also known as geothermal heat pumps. These are used for space heating and cooling, as well as water heating for both residential and commercial developments.

9.4.6 Small Scale Renewable Energy

The classification of small-scale renewable energy sources is in line with the Planning and Development Regulations (Exempted Development), 2007. The provision of each of the following for domestic use is exempt from Planning permission, subject to certain conditions as set out in the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended): x Stand-alone wind turbines x Building mounted wind turbines x Building mounted solar panels x Stand alone solar panels x Ground source heat pumps x Air source heat pumps x Biomass (includes fuel storage tanks /structures)

New Planning & Development Regulations came in to effect on 2nd July 2008 which provide exemptions for wind turbines, meteorological masts, combined heat and power (CHP) Plants, solar panels and biomass boiler units, subject to certain conditions for industrial, commercial and public buildings.

9.4.7 Energy Efficiency & Energy Performance for Buildings

As well as promoting renewable energy developments at designated locations throughout the County there is also the issue of improved energy efficiency in buildings to be considered. Arising from the Kyoto protocol, the EU has set the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions as a key objective. The most significant greenhouse gas is CO2, almost half of which derives from energy use in buildings. EU research has indicated that CO2 emissions from buildings could be reduced by 22% through improved energy efficiency.

The EU Energy Performance for Buildings Directive (EPBD) 2002 requires: x An energy rating for all newly constructed buildings, existing buildings (when existing buildings are let or sold) and public service buildings and x Improvement of the energy efficiency of certain classes of boilers and heating installations and inspection of air-conditioning systems. 120 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

The EPBD contains a range of provisions aimed at improving energy performance in residential and non- residential buildings, both new build and existing. The EPBD obliges the provision of specific forms of information and advice on energy to building purchasers, tenants and users. The intention is that this information and advice will help consumers to make informed decisions leading to practical actions to improve energy performance.

Laois County Council is committed to developing sustainable building practices in terms of energy efficiency and low environmental impact on building in County Laois. The Council recognizes that good design is the key to achieving the optimum energy performance of buildings at no extra cost. The benefits are clear- lower energy bills for the consumer and a healthier environment for the wider community.

9.5 ELECTRICITY

The National Development Plan 2007 - 2013 sets out policies for the provision of electricity from both renewable and non-renewable sources. The demand for electricity has grown by approximately 40% in the last decade and it is projected that this upward trend will increase to more than double its current load in the next 25 years.

The Council acknowledges the need to utilise electricity for domestic and commercial use within the County. (See Map 1.9.2 on page 133) illustrates the major existing electricity corridors within the County i.e. transmission and sub transmission network.

ESB Networks is the owner of the electricity network and as the licensed Distribution System Operator it is responsible for Planning, operating and maintaining all the sub-transmission (mostly 38kV system but including some lines at higher voltages), medium voltage (10kV and 20kV) and low voltage electricity network infrastructure in the country.

The electricity supply for Laois is distributed from the 110kV Station Bulk Supply Point (HV) located at Portlaoise, Ikerrin and Blake through the 38kV (HV), Medium Voltage (MV), and Low Voltage (LV) network to customers. The capacity and exact location of these stations are outlined in Table 18 below.

Table 18: Power Stations Located in Laois

38/MV stations located in Laois Station Station type Capacity Grid Reference Mountrath 38/10kV 2x5MVA 236017, 193419 Mountmellick 38/10kV 2x5MVA 246393, 206468 Portlaoise 38/10kV (within 110/38kV 2x10MVA 247066, 197652 stn) Pallas 38/10kV 2x5MVA 246019,199008 Rathdowney 38/10kV 1x5MVA 226808, 178486 Portarlington 38/10kV 2x5MVA 252918, 212591 Stradbally 38/10kV 2x5MVA 267013,194769 Ballylinan Rd 38/10kV 2x5MVA 267647,193544

38/MV Stations located outside Laois but which supply part of Laois

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Station 9.5.1 Capacity Grid Reference Graigue 38/10kV 2X5MVA 271216,176713 Roscrea 38/10kV 2X10MVA 213838,188776 Ballyragget 38/10kV 1x5MVA 244443, 172160 Castlecomer 38/10kV 2X5MVA 254493,176618

The following list outlines significant projects completed or that are in the process of commencing on the HV and MV Network. These projects will and have improved the capacity and quality of supply to Laois. x New 110/MV station in Portlaoise to commence in 2010 on the same site of the existing 110/38/10kV station. x New 38kV line to be built from Portlaoise to Mountmellick, to progress in 2010; x The existing station in Portarlington will see a temporary upgrade to 3x5MVA to allow for lead time of new station build in Bracklone Portarlington. Commencing in 2010; x Stradbally and Ballylinan Road station are currently being retired and the MV network will be fed from a new 110/MV Station in Athy; x Uprating of Graigue station to 2x10MVA is currently underway.

The following are the most significant elements of work which have a high probability of being needed during the Development Plan period 2011-2017. All these projects will be evaluated in detail by ESB Networks prior to commencement and if they are to proceed they will go through the standard Planning permission process: x A new 110/MV station in Bracklone Portarlington to replace existing 38/10kV station in Portarlington. x New 1x5MVA station in Abbeyleix.

These proposals will cater for normal load growth in the area. However, an individual large customer or development requiring a connection from ESB Networks may precipitate additional work. It should be noted that in some instances, housing developments can be significant and can drive HV reinforcements. A final review and decision on whether a project will progress is determined based on detailed analysis, which is completed closer to the project start time. The effective delivery of these projects are dependent on the success in acquiring appropriate sites, achieving suitable routes for lines and cables, and the success in achieving planning permission for the projects.

EirGrid is the state owned independent Transmission System Operator (TSO) and Market Operator (MO) in Ireland. It is EirGrid's role to deliver quality connection, transmission, and market services to electricity generators, suppliers and customers utilising the high voltage electricity system.

It is in this capacity that EirGrid is proposing to reinforce the network in the Laois-Kilkenny region by way of constructing a new circuit between the two counties. The proposed new transmission infrastructure will consist of the following: x A 400/110 kV substation situated to the south east of Portlaoise, the location of which is yet to be determined. The existing 400 kV Moneypoint-Dunstown and 110 kV Carlow-Portlaoise overhead lines will be looped into this new substation. x A 110 kV substation located adjacent to the existing 38 kV electricity substation at Ballyragget, County Kilkenny.

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x A 110 kV circuit between the proposed 400/110 kV substation and the proposed 110 kV substation.

The above Transmission Projects are required to address the network problems associated with the increase in load demand in the local area over the last number of years, together with the growth in forecast demand in future. These projects [which shall fully comply with the Policies/Objectives provided within the Plan, in relation to protection of environmental vulnerabilities and sensitivities] will ensure that an adequate level of security of supply and quality of supply is maintained to the whole region.

9.6 GAS

The present gas infrastructure in County Laois is indicated on Map no.1.9.3 below; gas transmission pipelines are shown in RED whereas the gas distribution networks are marked in BLUE. The Bord Gáis customer base in the County comprises of domestic, commercial and industrial users predominantly in the Portlaoise and Portarlington urban areas. The towns of Mountrath and Mountmellick are currently being considered for connection to the grid.

Map 1.9.3 Gas Network

ENERGY It is the policy of the Council to ET 9 / P01 Facilitate energy infrastructure provision, including the development of renewable energy sources at suitable locations, so as to provide for the further physical and economic development of County Laois.

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ET 9 / P02 To raise awareness within communities of the need to reverse fossil fuel dependency, to mitigate the effects of peak oil and economic contraction, and drastically reduce carbon emissions, to mitigate the effects of climate change. ET 9 / P03 Support national and international initiatives for limiting emissions of greenhouse gases through energy efficiency and the development of renewable energy sources which makes use of the natural resources of the County in an environmentally acceptable manner, where it is consistent with proper Planning and sustainable development of the area. ET 9 / P04 Encourage the production of energy from renewable sources, including in particular from wind, waste material, solar, hydro and biomass energy, subject to normal proper Planning considerations, including in particular, the potential impact on areas of environmental or landscape sensitivity. ET 9 / P05 Support the National Climate Change Strategy and, in general to facilitate measures which seek to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases. ET 9 / P06 Seek to improve the energy efficiency of its existing building stock, and to promote energy efficiency and conservation in the design and development of all new buildings in the County, and in residential schemes in particular. ET 9 / P07 Encourage planning applications for developments which maximise energy efficiency through their location, layout or design or which make appropriate use of energy conservation techniques, provided the development would not have a detrimental impact on the amenities of occupiers of nearby properties, or the amenities of the area. Development which is wasteful of energy in its location, layout or design will generally be resisted. ET 9 / P08 Attain high standards of energy efficiency and environmental sustainability in residential development, including the following; 1. Bio-climatic site design; 2. Water Conservation; 3. Ventilation; 4. Energy efficient strategies for housing design; 5. Daylight analysis, and; 6. High insulation standards. ET 9 / P09 Promote, encourage and facilitate the provision of micro-renewable energy. ET 9 / P10 Encourage the development of wind energy, in accordance with Government policy and having regard to the Landscape Characterisation Assessment of the County and the Wind Energy Strategy for the County. ET 9 / P11 Ensure that the assessment of wind energy development proposals will have regard to the impacts on public rights of way and walking routes. ET 9 / P12 Facilitate Solar Energy Technology through recognition of the need for particular orientations as part of house design. ET 9 / P13 Ensure that the assessment of hydro energy development proposals will have regard to the impacts on public rights of way and walking routes. ET 9 / P14 Support and facilitate the development of enhanced electricity and gas supplies, and associated networks, to serve the existing and projected residential, commercial, industrial and social needs of the County. ET 9 / P15 Co-operate and liaise with statutory and other energy providers in relation to power generation in order to ensure adequate power capacity for the future needs of the County.

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ET 9 / P16 Ensure that the assessment of energy development proposals will have regard to the impacts on public rights of way and walking routes. ET 9 / P17 Support the statutory providers of national grid infrastructure by safeguarding such strategic corridors from encroachment by other developments that might compromise the provision of energy networks where strategic route corridors have been identified. ET 9 / P18 Protect areas of recognised landscape importance and significant landscape views from construction of large scale visually intrusive energy transmission infrastructure. In such circumstances, it is an objective to seek alternative routing or transmission methods. ET 9 / P19 Only in cases where feasible , require the provision of electricity cables underground, especially in the urban environment, and generally within areas of public open space, in the interest of visual amenity. ET 9 / P20 Require that, in all new developments, multiple services be accommodated in shared strips and that access covers be shared whenever possible. ET 9 / P21 Ensure that the development of high tension power lines will be restricted, and that new high tension lines will not be permitted adjoining existing dwellings, except where no other alternative can be shown to exist. ET 9 / P22 Locate services, including electricity, telephone and TV underground, where possible, and that existing overhead cables and associated equipment should progressively be located underground with future capacity considered and appropriate ducting put in place. ET 9 / P24 Facilitate the sustainable provision of energy networks in principle provided that it can be demonstrated that:

x The development is required in order to facilitate the provision or retention of significant economic or social infrastructure. x The route proposed has been identified with due consideration for social, economic, environmental and cultural impacts. x Where impacts are inevitable mitigation features have been included. x tŚĞƌĞŝƚĐĂŶďĞƐŚŽǁŶƚŚĞƉƌŽƉŽƐĞĚĚĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚŝƐĐŽŶƐŝƐƚĞŶƚǁŝƚŚŝŶƚĞƌŶĂƚŝŽŶĂůďĞƐƚƉƌĂĐƚŝĐĞ͛͘ x That any such projects shall fully comply with the Policies/Objectives provided within the Plan, in relation to protection of environmental vulnerabilities and sensitivities.

9.7 TELECOMMUNICATIONS

Laois County Council recognises the essential need for high quality communications and information ƚĞĐŚŶŽůŽŐǇŶĞƚǁŽƌŬƐŝŶŵĂǆŝŵŝǌŝŶŐƚŚĞĐŽŵƉĞƚŝƚŝǀĞŶĞƐƐŽĨƚŚĞŽƵŶƚǇ͛ƐĞĐŽŶŽŵǇĂŶĚŝƚƐƌŽůĞŝŶƐƵƉƉŽƌƚŝŶŐ regional and national development generally. The two main contributors to these sectors in County Laois are broadband and telecommunications pylons, masts and associated antennae (See Map 1.9.5).

9.8 BROADBAND

The provision of extensive broadband coverage across urban and rural areas in the short term and the provision of fast and ultra-fast broadband in the medium term are critical to the economic development of County Laois.

European Context

The European Commission has proposed a number of targets for member states in relation to the provision of broadband:

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1. 2013 deadline for access for all to basic broadband 2. 2020 deadline for access for all to fast broadband, classified as speeds of 30 megabits per second (mbps) and 50% of European households to have subscriptions to ultra-fast broadband, classificed as above 100 megabits per second. 3. 2013 deadline for EU countries to open up the 800 MHz spectrum, with exceptions allowed until 2015 only in exceptional cases. Television stations currently used this spectrum to broadcast but it can also be used for wireless broadband provision.

In support of these targets, the European Commission will in cooperation with the European Investment Bank (EIB) make proposals for broadband financing in 2011 and issue guidance on the use of EU funds for ďƌŽĂĚďĂŶĚ͘ƵƌƌĞŶƚůǇΦϮďŝůůŝŽŶŝƐŝŶǀĞƐƚĞĚĂŶŶƵĂůly in broadband infrastructure by the EIB. The project of rolling out fast and ultra-ĨĂƐƚďƌŽĂĚďĂŶĚĂĐƌŽƐƐƵƌŽƉĞďǇϮϬϮϬŵĂǇƚƌŝŐŐĞƌŝŶǀĞƐƚŵĞŶƚŽĨďĞƚǁĞĞŶΦϭϴϬ ĂŶĚΦϮϳϬďŝůůŝŽŶďǇhĨƵŶĚŝŶŐ͕ůĞŶĚŝŶŐĂŶĚƐƵƉƉŽƌƚŵĞĐŚĂŶŝƐŵƐ͘

Direct investment by the state in high speed broadband is recommended in line with state aid rules. Promotion of private sector investment by reducing costs, risk-sharing and developing suitable regulatory frameworks is recommended. Relevant EU policy documents include: Europe 2020 Strategy (2010), ƵƌŽƉĞ͛ƐŝŐŝƚĂůŐĞŶĚĂ;ϮϬϭϬͿ͕ƵƌŽƉĞĂŶƌŽĂĚďĂŶĚ͗/ŶǀĞƐƚŝŶŐŝŶĚŝŐŝƚĂůůǇ-driven growth (2010).

National Context

National government, its agencies and appointed contractors have developed and reviewed a number of policies and implemented initiatives in relation to broadband provision. These include:

National Broadband Scheme (delivery date October 2010-October 2012) Broadband to [Secondary] Schools Scheme (delivery date 2012) County and Group Broadband Scheme (established 2004, ongoing) Regional Broadband Scheme (DCENR, phase 1 delivered, phase 2 underway) DĂŶĂŐŝŶŐ/ƌĞůĂŶĚ͛ƐZĞŐŝŽŶĂů&ŝďƌĞKƉƚŝĐ/ŶĨƌĂƐƚƌƵĐƚƵƌĞĂŶĚŶĂďůŝŶŐtŽƌůĚůĂƐƐdĞůĞĐŽŵƐ (Enet 2009) Next Generation Broadband: Gateway to Knowledge Economy (DCENR 2009) /ƌĞůĂŶĚ͛ƐƌŽĂdband Performance and Policy Actions (Forfas 2010) Next Generation Broadband in Ireland ʹ Promoting the timely and efficient development of high speed broadband infrastructure and services (ComReg 2009) Spectrum Management Strategy Statement (ComReg 2008-2010) Report of Working Group on Spectrum Policy (DCENR 2008) Development of National Policy Framework for the Digital Dividend (DCENR 2009) ƵŝůĚŝŶŐ/ƌĞůĂŶĚ͛Ɛ^ŵĂƌƚĐŽŶŽŵǇ;ĞƉĂƌƚŵĞŶƚŽĨdĂŽŝƐĞĂĐŚϮϬϬϴͿ

The above documents note significant progress in basic broadband coverage and the use of broadband by businesses and households. However, Comreg (2009) reports that we have barely begun to see the deployment of next generation broadband access networks in Ireland and Forfas (2010) echoes these concerns stating Ireland is lagging at least 3 to 5 years behind competitor countries in terms of rolling out infrastructure capable of high-ƐƉĞĞĚ ŶĞǆƚ ŐĞŶĞƌĂƚŝŽŶ ďƌŽĂĚďĂŶĚ͘ KŶůǇ Ϭ͘ϲй ŽĨ /ƌĞůĂŶĚ͛Ɛ ďƌŽĂĚďĂŶĚ connections are fibre connections compared to the OECD average of 11.3%, 21% in Sweden, 51% in Japan.

Optical fibre systems are accepted as the best means of delivering fast and ultra-fast broadband. Other technologies can deliver fast broadband, including coaxial cable, twisted copper, wireless platforms or hybrids of these. However the competition between these technologies is primarily in providing last mile service (the link connecting the customer to the local exchange). The major long distance wires that comprise the Internet backbone around the world are primarily made out of optical fibre (Forfas 2010). The availability of EU funding for the roll-out of fast broadband will enable the transformation of broadband services in Ireland.

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National Broadband Scheme

Basic wireless broadband is being rolled out in selected areas (map 1.9.4 below) by a private company under the National Broadband Scheme. This scheme involves the erection of masts and in difficult or remote terrain the use of satellite technology (8% of area). Minimum download schemes associated with the scheme are detailed below.

Download Speed Upload Speed Download Speed Upload Speed by masts by masts by Satellite by Satellite

In place 1.6 mbps 1.2mbps 1mbps 128kbps (0.1024mbps)

2012 2.3mbps 1.4 mbps unchanged unchanged delivery

Metropolitan Area Networks

As part of the Regional Broadband Programme, the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources (DCENR) in conjunction with Laois County Council have invested in a Metropolitan Area Network in Portlaoise. This is a fibre-optic cable network in public ownership open to all telecommunication operators (Map 1.9.6 below). Metropolitan Area Networks are also planned for Portarlington and Mountmellick under phase II of the Regional Broadband Programme. The investment of these fibre networks in Portlaoise, Portarlington and Mountmellick capable of fast and ultra-fast broadband will underpin the future economic development of these towns.

County and Group Broadband Scheme

This above scheme has been running since 2004 by the Department and aims to promote a partnership approach to broadband provision. It provides grant aid to service providers who form partnerships with local communities, to provide sustainable broadband service to their areas. Wireless broadband in Abbeyleix, Durrow, Kilminchy and housing estates on the Borris Road in Portlaoise has been provided under this scheme. Rural development programmes may also provide funding relating to broadband.

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Map 1.9.4: Areas in County Laois to be covered by National Broadband Scheme [NBS}

BROADBAND It is the policy of the Council to ET 9 / P25 Encourage the further co-ordinated development and extension of basic and next generation broadband in the County as a means of improving economic competitiveness, in particular support the planned rollout of fibre networks in Portarlington and Mountmellick under the Regional Broadband Scheme and the roll-out of broadband in Laois under the National Broadband Scheme, the Broadband to Schools Scheme, County and Group Broadband Scheme and the use of state physical infrastructure networks for fibre-based networks ET 9 / P26 Promote e-inclusion in County Laois through the Planning process and by supporting strategies to encourage and enable lower income households to avail of modem broadband infrastructure; ET 9 / P27 Seek to have the most up to date appropriate modern information technology, incorporated into the overall design and layout of all new developments in County Laois , where feasible; ET 9 / P28 Require the provision of telephone and TV cables underground, especially in the urban environment, and generally within areas of public open space, in the interest of visual amenity; ET 9 / P29 Require that all new housing developments be phone connected with the best wired technology available i.e. fibre and that multiple services be accommodated in shared strips and that access covers be shared whenever possible.

9.9 TELECOMMUNICATIONS MASTS AND ANTENNAE

In addition to Broadband, provision of masts and associated antennae is an essential element in the development of a modern telecommunications network in County Laois. The document

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"Telecommunications Antennae and Support Structures ʹ Guidelines for Planning Authorities" published by the Department of the Environment in July 1996 gives considerable guidance on this matter.

It shall be the preferred approach that all new support structures meet fully the co-location or clustering policy of the guidelines and that shared use of existing structures will be required where there are a number of masts located in any single area.

Due to the physical size of mast structures and the materials used to construct them, they can [especially latticework versions] severely impact on both rural and urban landscapes. When dealing with applications, great care will be taken to minimise damage through discreet siting and good design and access arrangements.

The design of the mast structures should be simple and well finished; monopoles are preferred to latticework types. They should employ the latest technology in order to minimise their size and visual impact. Mast structures are most visible and exposed within open lowland terrain and in upland areas. Where practical, masts should be placed in forestry Plantations provided that the antennae are clear of obstruction. The developer will be required to retain a cordon of trees around the site, which will not be felled during the lifetime of the mast. In un-forested areas, softening of the visual impact can be achieved through judicious design, and through the Planting of shrubs, trees, etc., as a screen and backdrop. Disguised masts e.g. as trees, will be encouraged in appropriate locations.

All masts approved will be for a temporary 5 year period only. This will allow review and reassessment in relation to numbers and concentrations, technology and the general dynamic nature of both the industry and the receiving environment within which these masts are sited.

Where the antennae and their support structures are no longer being used by the original operator and no new user has been identified they should be demolished, removed and the site reinstated at the operators expense (This will be a condition of any permission and a bonding arrangement to this effect will be put in place).

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TELECOMMUNICATIONS It is the Policy of the Council to ET 9 / P30 Provide orderly development of telecommunications infrastructure throughout the County in ĂĐĐŽƌĚĂŶĐĞ ǁŝƚŚ ƚŚĞ ƌĞƋƵŝƌĞŵĞŶƚƐ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ͞dĞůĞĐŽŵŵƵŶŝĐĂƚŝŽŶƐ ŶƚĞŶŶĂĞ ĂŶĚ ^ƵƉƉŽƌƚ Structures ʹ 'ƵŝĚĞůŝŶĞƐĨŽƌWůĂŶŶŝŶŐƵƚŚŽƌŝƚŝĞƐ͟:ƵůǇϭϵϵϲ͖ ET 9 / P31 Encourage coverage and capacity of mobile phone network infrastructure, while striving to ƌĞĚƵĐĞ ƚŚĞ ŶƵŵďĞƌ ŽĨ ƚĞůĞĐŽŵŵƵŶŝĐĂƚŝŽŶƐ ƐƚƌƵĐƚƵƌĞƐ͕ ďǇ ĞŶƐƵƌŝŶŐ ƚŚĂƚ ŽŵZĞŐ͛Ɛ ŽĚĞ ŽĨ Practice on Site Sharing is implemented and reciprocal national roaming is entered into; ET 9 / P32 Encourage co-location of antennae on existing support structures and to require documentary evidence as to the non availability of this option in proposals for new structures. The shared use of existing structures will be insisted upon where there are a number of masts located in any single area; ET 9 / P33 Secure a high quality of design of masts, towers and antennae and other such infrastructure in the interests of visual amenity and the protection of sensitive landscapes, subject to radio and engineering parameters; ET 9 / P34 Adopt a presumption against the location of structures in vulnerable landscapes as identified in the Landscape Character Assessment (Appendix 6) and in areas where views and/or prospects are to be preserved and in areas adjacent to national monuments, sites of archaeological heritage or protected structures. ET 9 / P35 Prohibit any developments which would impinge on a public right of way, traditional walking routes or public access to the countryside. ET 9 / P36 Existing Rights of Way and established walking routes be identified prior to any new telecommunications developments.

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10 TRANSPORT

CORE AIM Develop an accessible county, well-connected internally and with national strategic transport infrastructure, with a more balanced modal split, with strong integration between transport nodes and intensive land uses, and an efficient and safe road and public transport network.

10.1 INTRODUCTION dŚŝƐĐŚĂƉƚĞƌĚĞĂůƐǁŝƚŚƉůĂŶŶĞĚŽƉƉŽƌƚƵŶŝƚŝĞƐĂƌŝƐŝŶŐĨƌŽŵ>ĂŽŝƐ͛ƐƚƌĂƚĞŐŝĐůŽĐĂƚŝŽŶ͕ƚƌĂŶƐƉŽƌƚŝŶĨƌĂƐƚƌƵĐƚƵƌĞ improvements, the maintenance of a safe and efficient road network, the integration of transport and land use, the provision of pedestrian, cycling and public transport infrastructure.

10.2 CONTEXT

This chapter was informed by Department of Transport policy documents, such as: x Smarter Travel 2009-2020; x National Cycle Policy Framework; x Transport 21; x National Development Plan 2007-2013; x Spatial Planning and National Road Guidelines 2010 (Draft); x Other policy documents and best practice policy; x Fáilte Ireland: Strategy to Develop Irish Cycle Tourism;

The timely provision of a full range of transportation services is critical if County Laois is to continue to develop as an attractive location for business and residential development. Achieving spatial balance by developing the potential of areas will depend on enhancing capacity for the movement of people, goods, energy and information between different places. The attractiveness of particular locations depends on their relative accessibility and connectivity which in turn depends on the quality and quantity of the transport infrastructure. Although Laois County Council is only directly responsible for the development of some transportation modes, the Council will continue to provide those elements of the transportation system which are within its remit and to facilitate the development of those elements provided by others.

Laois County Council recognises that the current trends in transportation are unsustainable, in particular the relentless increase in private car traffic. The Council is strongly committed to the promotion of sustainable means of travel including public transport, walking and cycling, and the encouragement of modal change from private car use to these means. In Planning for transport development, the Council will ensure that the needs of people with differing abilities are taken into account. The Council seeks to reduce the degree of commuting in the first instance by facilitating the creation of additional jobs within the County for the resident population.

10.3 TRENDS, CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES

County Laois is served by transport corridors of national strategic importance (figure 1). These transport corridors include the M7 and M8 motorways connecting Dublin with Limerick and Dublin with Cork and the

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ƚƌĂŝŶ ůŝŶĞƐ ĐŽŶŶĞĐƚŝŶŐ ƵďůŝŶ ǁŝƚŚ ŽƌŬ͕ <ĞƌƌǇ͕ >ŝŵĞƌŝĐŬ͕ 'ĂůǁĂǇ ĂŶĚ DĂǇŽ͘ /Ŷ ĂĚĚŝƚŝŽŶ͕ >ĂŽŝƐ͛ ĐĞŶƚƌĂů location geographically means that most cities and towns and their related economic hubs are within easy reach.

The eastern portion of Laois has been significantly influenced by the proximity to Dublin and the construction of good road transportation links. The widening of the Dublin commuter belt led to residential commuter development in Portlaoise, Portarlington, Graiguecullen, Mountmellick and Ballylinan. The influence of Dublin on the residential development of Laois may change over this Plan period, as a result of restructuring of the property market.

On a national level, over the past decade, significant expenditure has been directed to the improvement and upgrading of the national road network. The completion of outstanding sections of the M7 (Portlaoise ʹ Borris in Ossory) and M8 (Portlaoise ʹ Cullahill) motorway presents opportunities and challenges in relation to Planning and economic development.

On a regional level, the County is served by the N80 connecting Tullamore with Portlaoise and Carlow and is served by the N77 which connects Laois with Kilkenny through Abbeyleix and Durrow. It is important that Laois makes the best use of its key location in relation to transport infrastructure to develop economically.

The carrying capacity, safety and operational efficiency and upgrading of national primary /secondary roads and strategic regional/regional roads and the provision of new relief roads or orbital roads are important for the functioning of towns and villages and the economic development of the County generally. Given the dispersed nature of settlement, the maintenance of the local road network is also of significant importance.

Objectives TT 10 / O01 Upgrade and improve the hierarchy of road transportation links between towns and villages to cater for existing trip generation numbers and patterns and provide for anticipated trip generation numbers and patterns as envisaged by the settlement strategy and economic development strategy; TT 10 / O02 Maintain and enhance the carrying capacity and operational efficiency of national, strategic regional and regional road networks and improve the safety of the transport network generally; TT 10 / O03 Foster the use of more sustainable forms of transport by making towns and villages and suburban areas more cycle and pedestrian friendly and providing rural cycling routes where feasible, providing information relating to rural walking routes

TT 10 / O04 Supporting the provision of public transport and rural transport schemes ; TT 10 / O05 Ensure new developments are adequately served by transport infrastructure, both off-site (capacity and quality of roads in the vicinity and their lighting, footpaths, cycle paths, capacity of junctions relating to a new development) and on-site (adequacy of estate roads, including foot and cycle paths, signage, car and cycle parking, traffic calming, turning circles for emergency service vehicles, loading bays, set down areas, lay-bys, service lanes; TT 10 / O06 To ensure that the development of the settlements as indicated in the settlement hierarchy located on strategic transportation corridors occur in a compact and self sustaining manner, and facilitate the economic provision of public transport; TT 10 / O07 To ensure that the widest spectrum of needs, including pedestrians, cyclists and those with differing levels of ability are taken into account in the design and Planning of transport infrastructure and services;

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TT 10 / O08 To have regard to the ecological, landscape, archaeological and cultural heritage of the County in the pursuit of objectives relating to the provision of transport infrastructure. TT 10 / O09 To ensure that flood risk management measures are incorporated into the provision of transport and emergency planning infrastructure.

10.4 LAND USE AND TRANSPORTATION

Traffic is increasingly becoming a problem with the growth of urbanisation leading to greater car dependency. Measures need to be taken at a number of levels (local, regional and national) to mitigate the effects of transport, in particular private car traffic, and reduce the need and demand for travel. The extent to which policy succeeds in reducing the effects of transport depends on the level of co-ordination and integration of transport, environmental Planning and economic policies. Decisions on land use and development must take account of existing and public transport networks and support the emergence and development of new integrated transport systems. Notwithstanding the significant investment at national level in developing an extensive motorway network, the focus of national transport policy (Smarter Travel 2009-2020, National Cycle Framework Policy) is being re-orientated to more sustainable forms of transport including rail transport, bus transport, cycling and walking.

Laois benefits from having three railway stations in the County (Portlaoise, Portarlington and Ballybrophy) and also the station at Monasterevin which serves some Laois residents. These railway stations are served by two lines of national strategic importance and operate regular train services.

Existing zoned lands in the vicinity of these stations are suitable for high density residential development or labour intensive enterprises. Industry requiring freight transport by rail will be directed to Togher highlighted in Chapter 7- Economic Development. Portarlington has a number of well established industries and residential developments located in close proximity to the Train Station.

Much of the national sustainable transport policy is concerned with changing the modal split for journeys of less than 4km and also for school journeys. By enhancing infrastructure for walking and cycling as well as encouraging car sharing and the preparation of work place travel Plans (also known as mobility management Plans) a significant change in the modal choice that people make is anticipated. Policies supporting this modal shift are included in this Plan.

It is a strategic aim of this Development Plan to co-ordinate transport and land use planning through settlement and enterprise and employment policies.

Land use and Transport Integration It is the policy of the Council to TT 10 / P01 Encourage coordination by transport providers to promote linked up transport services enabling complete coverage of the County through the creation of integrated transport hubs in the larger towns: by providing bus stations or stops in or around train stations by providing cycle parking stands at stations and stops by providing good pedestrian facilities TT 10 / P02 Zone lands for high density residential development and labour intensive industry in proximity to railway stations.

136 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

TT 10 / P03 For larger Planning application, request a Mobility Management Plan10 detailing accessibility measures and measures to encourage sustainable modes of transport such as walking, cycling, car-sharing and public transport and in the case of schools measures might also include a school bus or a walking school bus. TT 10 / P04 Work in partnership with the constituent Local Authorities to prepare a Co-ordinated Sustainable Transport Plan for the Midland Region TT 10 / P05 Work in partnership with the constituient Local Authorities to ensure that inter county infrastructure is provided to support developments.

10.5 ROADS

It is important to protect and maintain the carrying capacity of the road network in the County made up of the following: x Motorway network including interchanges; x National secondary; x Regional roads; x Local roads.

Roads are all essential to the economic development and amenities of the County. It is important therefore to restrict the creation of new vehicular entrances or the intensification in the use of entrances outside 50 kph speed limits, particularly in relation to national and strategic regional roads. In addition to considerations of carrying capacity and road safety, more dispersed forms of development make more sustainable forms of transport unattractive. Spatial Planning and National Roads Guidelines 2010 (draft) strongly reinforce the economic, safety and environmental reasons for these necessary restrictions.

Roads It is the policy of the Council to: TT 10 / P06 Encourage and facilitate investment in the road network at national, regional and local level particularly the N80 which is an important inter region connector and prioritise delivery to maximise the economic benefit to the County and ensure that any plan or project associated with transportation (roads, rail or other forms) which has the potential to significantly affect a Natura 2000 site is appropriately assessed in accordance with Article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of the site; TT 10 / P07 Promote road and traffic safety measures in conjunction with relevant Government Departments and other agencies through the provision of appropriate signage, minimising or removing existing traffic hazards and preventing the creation of additional or new traffic hazards;

10 Workplace travel Plans will be required for large scale commercial / industrial projects.

137 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

TT 10 / P08 Provide, extend and maintain street lighting on the public road/footpath network throughout the county in accordance with best international practice. TT 10 / P09 Support major road improvement projects by reserving the corridors of such projects, including by-passes, road realignments and new roads, free of development and to prohibit development that would prejudice or interfere with such projects; TT 10 / P10 Ensure that the study corridors of road projects, the definitive routes of which are not yet finalised, are reserved free of development and ensure that any plan or project associated with transportation (roads, rail or other forms) which has the potential to significantly affect a Natura 2000 site is appropriately assessed in accordance with Article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of the site; TT 10 / P11 Avoid the creation of new vehicular entrances or the intensification in the use of entrances outside 50 kph speed limits, particularly in relation to national roads; TT 10 / P12 Implement a programme of road construction and improvement works and local measures to improve road safety, closely integrated with existing and Planned land uses; TT 10 / P13 Regulate, control and improve signage throughout the County, in conjunction with the National Roads Authority and other relevant agencies; TT 10 / P14 Require developers to provide a detailed Traffic Impact Assessment, as carried out by competent professionals in this field, where new developments will have a significant effect on travel demand and the capacity of surrounding transport links. Where a Traffic Impact Assessment identifies necessary on and off site improvements for the development to be able to proceed, the developer will fund the improvements to the satisfaction of the Council; TT 10 / P15 Require Safety audits be carried out on all road schemes and other developments per Laois County Council Roads and Drainage Standards and shall be in accordance with the NRA Design Manual for Roads and Bridges: HD 19 Road Safety Audits & HA 42 Road Safety Audit Guidelines.

10.5.1 Motorway Network

/ŶĂĚĚŝƚŝŽŶƚŽƚŚĞĂŶƚŝĐŝƉĂƚĞĚĞĐŽŶŽŵŝĐŐƌŽǁƚŚĂŶĚĞŶǀŝƌŽŶŵĞŶƚĂůŝŵƉƌŽǀĞŵĞŶƚŽĨ>ĂŽŝƐ͛ƚŽǁŶƐĂƐĂƌĞƐƵůƚ of the motorway, there are also opportunities to benefit more directly from the new motorway system. These opportunities must be balanced against compliance with Spatial Planning and National Roads Guidelines (Draft) 2010.

Given the development of an extensive national motorway network, there is a clear need for the provision of service areas for fuel, toilet and food needs. Service areas perform an important road safety function in providing opportunities to take frequent breaks thereby reducing fatigue-related traffic accidents.

However, it is important that service areas do not become destinations in their own right because this can lead to congestion at interchanges, interference with road safety, reduction in the flow of long distance travel. It is also important that development at interchanges does not undermine town-based development. The NRA anticipates that service areas will be provided off-line (accessible by ordinary road network as well as motorway) and on-line (accessible from motorway only).

National Roads Authority (NRA) Circular 4/2010 indicates the up to date position of the NRA with respect to provision of online and offline service areas on the national road network. Proposals being brought forward by private sector development interests to provide offline services areas will be subject to normal Planning requirements and procedures and consultation with the NRA.

138 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

Map 1.10.2 indicates the interchanges within the County and the potential they will bring to the development of nearby settlements and existing zoned areas. The map also highlights where established service stations exist in proximity to the interchanges and the potential for these areas to grow subject to Planning and environmental standards being met.

Motorway Development It is Council Policy to: TT 10 / P16 further examine the potential of the national road interchanges for appropriate uses and zonings in consultation with the National Roads Authority and in accordance with the provisions of the Spatial Planning and National Roads (Draft) Guidelines during the Plan period.; TT 10 / P17 Prohibit development seeking access onto the Motorway network and junctions; TT 10 / P18 Maximise the beneficial return of public investment in the national motorway network by protecting the carrying capacity of the M7/M8, including associated junctions, through County Laois; TT 10 / P19 Ensure that all roads in the County that are used in connection with the construction of the Motorway projects are reinstated and repaired to a minimum of their former condition after the completion of the Motorway projects; TT 10 / P20 Co-operate with the NRA in the upgrade of existing Interchange[s] on the National Routes where appropriate and to restrict development immediately adjacent to Interchange[s] to provide for the future enlargement of Interchange[s]; TT 10 / P21 Advance Togher as the primary location for off-line motorway services and other uses in line with the Togher National Enterprise Park MasterPlan (adopted in April 2010) as advocated in the Spatial Planning and National Roads Guidelines (Draft 2010) ; TT 10 / P22 Improve road between Borris in Ossory and Ballybrophy Station and support the establishment of a feeder bus link between M7 Junction 21 at Borris in Ossory and Ballybrophy Train Station (and/or Donaghmore Museum, Rathdowney and M8 Junction 3 - Granstown); TT 10 / P23 Promote the development of lands for enterprise and industrial uses within existing settlements such as Portarlington, Ballybrittas, Ballacolla, Mountrath and Borris in Ossory, Abbeyleix, Rathdowney and Durrow; TT 10 / P24 Direct industrial, enterprise, residential and retail development to zoned lands and applications for single-family dwelling units away from Motorway interchanges; TT 10 / P25 Recognise existing and long-established employment uses including off-line services at M7 Junction 15 at New Inn and M8 Junction 3 at Granstown .

10.5.2 National Road Network

/Ŷ ƚĞƌŵƐ ŽĨ ƌŽĂĚ ƚƌĂŶƐƉŽƌƚ͕ ƐŽŵĞ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ĐŽƵŶƚƌǇ͛Ɛ ŵŽƐƚ ƐŝŐŶŝĨŝĐĂŶƚ ƐĞĐƚŝŽŶƐ ŽĨ ŶĂƚŝŽŶĂů ƌŽƵƚĞ ŶĞƚǁŽƌŬ traverse County Laois. These include:

RosslareʹCarlow-Moate National Secondary Route N80. The National Secondary Route N80 which extends through the centre of the County from Carlow to Mountmellick via Stradbally and Portlaoise is both a key internal and intra-regional artery ultimately connecting County Laois to the remainder of the Midlands Region and further beyond to the Northwest and Southeast Regions. Significant improvements to the N80 route are envisaged under the terms of the

139 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

National Development Plan (NDP). The N80 Clonreher tie-in on the north-western outskirts of Portlaoise has already been completed.

There are two other shorter sections of National Secondary Route network in the County:

N77 linking Portlaoise to Kilkenny via Durrow and Ballyragget The N77 route links the cargo terminals at New Ross and Waterford as well as Kilkenny and the south east region M7 motorway south of Portlaoise in County Laois at M7 Junction 17 Togher Interchange;

N78 from Athy to Castlecomer passing through Ballylynan and Newtown Doonane The N78 route commences at its junction with the N77 near Kilkenny and runs in a northerly direction traversing through Castlecomer, Ballylinan in County Laois and Athy. It intersects the N80 near Ballylinan and its terminus is the M9 near Kilcullen.

While not as critical in the overall context as the N80, they are nonetheless important connectors of the eastern and southern ends of the County to the wider regional and national communications network. The Council is aware of the vital importance of the national routes to the economic and social development of the County and the Country at large.

National Secondary Routes The Council will actively pursue the upgrading and improvement of the N80 including provision of appropriate by-passes where considered necessary.

The draft Spatial Planning and National Roads Guidelines 2010 state that no access to the national network are permitted. ͞ǆĐĞƉƚŝŽŶĂů ĐŝƌĐƵŵƐƚĂŶĐĞƐ ƉŽƚĞŶƚŝĂůůǇ ŝŶǀŽůǀĞ ĚĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚƐ ŽĨ ŶĂƚŝŽŶĂů ĂŶĚ ƌĞŐŝŽŶĂů strategic importance provided for in local authority development Plans and which by their nature are most appropriately located outside urban areas, where the locations concerned have specific characteristics that make them particularly suitable for the developments proposed. Such proposals would also have to be in accordance with the National Spatial Strategy, Regional Planning Guidelines and other Guidelines issued by the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government under the provisions of Section 28 of the Đƚ͘͟

The only conditions appropriate for farmer exemption, per the draft guidelines, are: x Traffic volumes are low and are forecast to remain below 3,000AADT (as verified by the NRA) for the next 20 years (there is no such National Secondary Road in County Laois); x There is no other suitable alternative non-national public road access available; x The development otherwise accords with the development Plan; and x Safety issues and considerations can be adequately addressed in accordance with the NRA Design Manual for Roads and Bridges.

National Roads It is the policy of the Council to TT 10 / P26 Safeguard the strategic role of national roads including associated junctions; TT 10 / P27 Avoid the creation of additional access points from new development or the generation of increased traffic from existing accesses to national roads to which speed limits greater than 50 kph apply. This prohibition will not necessarily apply to developments of national and regional strategic importance in accordance with the National Spatial Strategy and Regional Planning Guidelines, which by their nature are most appropriately located outside urban areas, where the locations concerned have specific characteristics that make them

140 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

particularly suitable for the developments proposed. exceptions to this policy would only be brought forward in a plan led manner, as indicated in the Spatial Planning and National Roads (Draft) Guidelines and be with the agreement of the National Roads Authority. TT 10 / P28 Protect lands reserved as road infrastructure route options or a Planned road infrastructure route from other types of development ; TT 10 / P29 Protect its transport network against development that would have a serious adverse effect on the capacity or operational efficiency and create serious traffic congestion or potentially give rise to traffic hazard; TT 10 / P30 Request Traffic and Transport Assessment11 (TTA) on new developments where they may have traffic implications; TT 10 / P31 Request a swept path analysis details demonstrating access, turning circles and egress movements to ensure emergency service vehicles can service new developments; TT 10 / P32 Prohibit further developments for established farm activity along national roads or extensions to commercial or industrial development outside the speed limits on such roads where a road safety hazard is created and where there is no increase in associated traffic, regard should be had to the provisions of the Spatial Planning and National Roads (Draft) Guidelines in this regard; TT 10 / P33 Require all proposed developments in urban and rural areas accessing the road networks to comply with the road standards of Laois County Council

10.5.3 Strategic Regional Road Network

The Regional Road network in the County is sub divided into Strategic Regional and Regional Roads. In the case of strategic regional routes and regional routes, especially those which have a high carrying capacity, the Council shall adopt a restrictive policy in relation to new development in the interests of traffic safety.

There are 13 strategic regional routes in County Laois linking the main County towns to the National Routes and M7 and M8 Motorways. These are shown in the table below.

Table 19: Strategic Regional Routes in County Laois

Road No. Road Location and Description R419 Junction with R445 (Great Heath) to County Boundary (Portarlington) R420 Junction with R419 (Portarlington) to Junction with R445 (Killinure) R421 County Boundary (Ballynahown) to Junction with R422 (Coolagh Cross Roads) R422 Junction with R419 (Coolagh Cross Roads) to Junction with R445 at New Inn R423 Junction with R445 (Mountrath) to Junction with N80 (Derryclooney)

11 A TTA comprises a comprehensive and systematic process which sets out transport issues relating to the proposed development and proposes measures to deal with the anticipated transport impacts of the scheme.

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R425 Junction with N77 (Abbeyleix) to Junction with R445 (Rathbrennan) R426 Junction with N80 (Portlaoise) to Junction with R430 at the Swan R427 Junction with R425 (Cashel) to Junction with N80 (Stradbally Road, Bloomfield Cross) R428 Junction with N80 (Stradbally) to County Boundary (Blackford) R430 Junction with R445 (Mountrath) to County Boundary (Carlow) R433 Junction with N77 (Abbeyleix) to County Boundary (Knockahaw) R434 Junction with R445 (Sentryhill) to Junction with N8 (Durrow) R435 Junction with R445 (Borris-in-Ossory) to County Boundary (Rossdaragh) R445 County Boundary (Ballaghmore) to County Boundary (Killinure) R639 Junction with N77 (Durrow) to Kilkenny County Boundary (Old Town) R922 Junction with M7 Junction 17 Togher to Junction with N80 Portlaoise

R941 Junction with R922 (Knockmay) to Junction with N80 (Clonreher)

It is the policy of the Council to TT 10 / P34 Prohibit unnecessary access onto strategic regional routes in areas where the maximum speed limit applies. TT 10 / P35 permit access for single dwellings for full time farmers or farmers and / or their children who derive a substantial portion of their income from farming the land , subject to the following provisions: An alternative site with access onto a minor road is not available; The proposed development can be accommodated without the creation of a specific traffic hazard; Where possible an existing entrance is used; dŚĞŽƵŶĐŝů͛ƐƌŽĂĚƐƚĂŶĚĂƌĚƐĂƌĞĨƵůůǇŵĞƚ͘

10.5.4 Regional Roads

Regional roads comprise of 317.9 kŵŽĨƚŚĞŽƵŶƚǇ͛ƐƚŽƚĂůƌŽĂĚŶĞƚǁŽƌŬ͘/ŶƚŚĞĐĂƐĞŽĨƌĞŐŝŽŶĂůƌŽƵƚĞƐ͕ especially those which have a high carrying capacity, the Council shall adopt a restrictive policy in relation to new development in the interests of traffic safety.

142 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

It is the policy of the Council to TT 10 / P36 Restrict development requiring access onto Regional Roads where speed limits in excess of 50kph apply12; TT 10 / P37 Access points within speed limits of 50kph may be provided subject to compliance with the ŽƵŶĐŝů͛ƐƌŽĂĚsafety standards; TT 10 / P38 Ensure that necessary new entrances are located in such a manner as to provide effective visibility for both users of the entrance and users of the public roads so that opportunities for conflicting traffic movements are avoided, in the interests of public safety, TT 10 / P39 Avoid premature obsolesce of Regional Roads through creating excessive levels of individual entrances; TT 10 / P40 Prohibit ribbon development outside statutory speed limits and development boundaries of towns or villages.

10.5.5 County Roads

County roads form the bulk of the road network in County Laois (a total of 1718 km) and serve an important economic role because of the traditionally dispersed nature of the population in the County. They also have valuable social and community functions. Laois County Council has responsibility for the carrying out of maintenance and improvement works on these roads, financed from their own resources and supplemented by State grants. Sight distance requirements for the above roads is outlined in Chapter 16 - Design and Development Standards.

It is the policy of the Council to: TT 10 / P41 Encourage and facilitate investment in the local road network; TT 10 / P42 Provide for and carry out improvements to sections of local roads that are deficient in respect of realignment, structural condition or capacity, where resources permit and to maintain that standard thereafter. TT 10 / P43 ZĞƋƵŝƌĞĚĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚƉƌŽƉŽƐĂůƐĂĐĐĞƐƐŝŶŐŽŶƚŽůŽĐĂůƌŽĂĚƐƚŽĐŽŵƉůǇǁŝƚŚƚŚĞŽƵŶĐŝů͛ƐƌŽĂĚ standards

10.6 PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Key public transport corridors exist within County Laois. It is the aim of Laois County Council to facilitate a modal shift in transportation from car based modes to more sustainable forms of integrated public transport. In order to ensure developments are sustainable, land use and transportation Planning (including

12 Permission may be granted where the following criteria are satisfied: ¾ In the case of applications for single-dwelling units for a ĨĂŵĞƌŽƌĂĨĂƌŵĞƌ͛ƐƐŽŶŽƌĚĂƵŐŚƚĞƌ͕ƉĞƌŵŝƐƐŝŽŶŵĂǇďĞĐŽŶƐŝĚĞƌĞĚ͕ǁŚĞƌĞ evidence submitted clearly demonstrates that alternative site accessed from a local road is not available and where the Council͛ƐƌŽĂĚ standards can be met. ¾ In the case of applications for commercial developments unsuited to existing allocated development areas such as enterprise parks and town centres, such as waste disposal facilities, large-scale wind farms or quarries and associated aggregate processing and manufacturing, where the development will not adversely affect road safety. ¾ In the case of development relating to established farm activity where the development will not adversely affect road safety.

143 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017 non-motorised modes) has to be coordinated and integrated. Future development layouts should be designed to reduce trip generation, especially by cars. Laois County Council seeks to reduce auto dependency and promote a balanced transportation strategy.

10.6.1 Rail

County Laois is well served by a number of mainline and commuter train services. Mainline infrastructure consists of the main Dublin/Cork line with stations at Portarlington, Portlaoise & Ballybrophy. The Galway/Westport line via Athlone branches off at Portarlington and at Ballybrophy there is a branch line to Limerick via Nenagh. In addition, there are extensive daily commuter services between Portlaoise and Portarlington and the Greater Dublin Area (GDA) which have played a central role in the residential expansion of these towns.

Recent roll-out of rail related infrastructure in the County includes provision of significantly expanded car parking facilities at Portarlington and Portlaoise stations and the development of a national train service depot at Togher, Portlaoise. Further opportunities exist to develop a light rail link between the main line service at Portlaoise and the Togher National Enterprise Park in order to develop a large inter modal facility.

Laois County Council will fully encourage and facilitate the provision of bus, cycle and pedestrian facilities and linkages in the vicinity of rail stations to support the Smarter Travel 2009-2020 Government Transport Policy document.

A modern, efficient and dependable passenger and freight rail network has a crucial role to play in terms of promoting County Laois for business, industrial, residential and recreational purposes. There are other benefits too in terms of greater sustainability, reduced congestion and car generated pollution.

10.6.2 Bus

Bus Éireann operates daily mainline services to and from the main population centres of County Laois. Intra regional services are provided to Limerick, Dublin, Cork, Waterford, Tullamore and Athlone.

This level of national and regional service is augmented by a number of private operators with dedicated student orientated services to third level colleges in Athlone and Carlow. Aircoach runs a direct service from Cork to Dublin Airport with collection points in Durrow, Abbeyleix and Portlaoise.

At a more local, rural level, Laois TRIP provides door to door and semi-fixed route services mainly in the west of the County connecting these outlying rural areas to Portlaoise and other large towns in the County.

The Town-Link service links the principal town of Portlaoise to Portarlington, Mountmellick, Borris-in- Ossory, Rathdowney, Ballacolla, Durrow, Abbeyleix and Ballyroan. A local hop-on, hop-off service serving many of the towns new outlying housing areas is provided in Portlaoise.

Other bus services are run by the Department of Education and the Health Service Executive in relation to their own functions.

In terms of an overall assessment of bus services in the County, the consensus is that while connections to the national network are generally adequate, the level of service for regional connections is more problematic while that at local level is seen as sporadic and intermittent.

Much of the difficulties stem from poor co-ordination and a lack of integration between the various national, regional and local providers. It is essential that a timetable [both in physical form and on an easily

144 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017 accessible website] of all existing public and private operated services is made available for the County. In the Council Masterplan for the inland port at Togher, provision is made for the establishment of a park and ride facility.

In advance of the Planned park and ride station at Togher, consideration should be given to the establishment of an inter modal facility, at least on an interim basis, at the existing bus stop at James Fintan Lalor Avenue in Portlaoise town centre which needs to be enhanced by the provision of a physical timetable of all services, enlarged pull-in bays and appropriately sized and designed bus stops.

Rail It is the policy of the Council to TT 10 / P44 Support the maintenance and enhancement of rail infrastructure and associated facilities in County Laois, particularly the Provision of a 2nd line between Portarlington and Galway which will facilitate the increased capacity of the Dublin Galway line Develop a light rail link between the main line service at Portlaoise and the Togher National Enterprise Park in order to develop a large inter modal facility. TT 10 / P45 Support provision of additional rail links within the midlands region or other regions adjoining County Laois. TT 10 / P46 Encourage coordination by providers to promote linked up services enabling complete coverage of the county independent of private vehicular transport and promote the provision of buses stop at train stations, etc

Bus It is the policy of the Council to TT 10 / P47 Encourage the establishment of an inter modal facility, in Portlaoise; TT 10 / P48 Encourage the provision of shared bus stop facilities in appropriate locations in urban centres such as Train Stations as designated in the County Settlement hierarchy to facilitate public and private operators; TT 10 / P49 Support the provision of bus services: Connecting principal towns in Laois with Dublin, Dublin Airport, Kilkenny, Carlow, Roscrea, Tullamore and other towns; Connecting principal and key towns within the County; Provided as part of the Rural Transport Initiative which serve to improve access to principal and service towns and counteract rural isolation; TT 10 / P50 Work with Rural Transport Providers to research and promote sustainable options for rural transport given the increased running costs with the rising cost of fuel

10.7 CYCLING AND WALKING

Cycling and walking have many benefits including promoting healthy lifestyles, environmental sustainability and community development. Cycling and walking is more environmentally sustainable as it reduces the 145 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017 stress on the environment from mechanised transport and also reduces incidents of traffic congestion. Community development benefits from encouraging people to walk or cycle. Walking and cycling keeps people fit and healthy and in doing so improves their quality of life. All new development proposals shall be required to provide for well integrated pedestrian and cycling networks.

Laois County Council recognises cycling and walking to be healthy, safe, ecologically sound forms of movement. Walking and cycling are the most sustainable modes of transport available in terms of their low environmental impacts. They are a highly accessible and sustainable alternative to vehicular-based transport and contribute to an improved quality of public realm, a stronger economy and business environment and ultimately a better quality of life.

An essential element of any integrated transport system is to provide for the needs of cyclists and pedestrians. The increased provision of cycle lanes and safer facilities for pedestrian is identified as a key action in the GovĞƌŶŵĞŶƚ͛Ɛ ^ƵƐƚĂŝŶĂďůĞ ĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚ ʹ A Strategy for Ireland, the Department of the ŶǀŝƌŽŶŵĞŶƚ͕,ĞƌŝƚĂŐĞΘ>ŽĐĂů'ŽǀĞƌŶŵĞŶƚ͛ƐZĞƐŝĚĞŶƚŝĂůĞŶƐŝƚǇ'ƵŝĚĞůŝŶĞƐĂŶĚƚŚĞƵƌŽƉĞĂŶŚĂƌƚĞƌŽĨ Pedestrian Rights.

Planning can encourage walking to become the principal method for shorter journeys through arranging land uses and by utilising good urban design. Providing a comprehensive network of safe, well-lit and convenient footpaths (both road-side and segregated) within new residential areas with links to schools, local neighbourhood centres, public transport stops and workplaces will encourage people to walk.

Cycling will be encouraged through the provision of direct off-road cycle routes, traffic management measures that give cyclists priority and sufficient bicycle parking infrastructure at the destination. The "National Manual for the Design of Cycle Facilities in Urban Areas" will be the basis for informing the design of cycle facilities.

The National Cycle Policy Framework launched in 2009 by the Dept. of Transport as part of the 'ŽǀĞƌŶŵĞŶƚ͛Ɛ ŽǀĞƌĂůů Smarter Travel-A Sustainable Transport Future strategy aims to foster a strong cycling culture throughout the country so that by 2020 a minimum of 10% of trips will be undertaken by ďŝĐǇĐůĞ͘ǇĐůŝŶŐ͛ƐƐŚĂƌĞŽĨƚŚĞƚŽƚĂůƚƌĂǀĞůŵĂƌŬĞƚĂƚƉƌĞƐĞŶƚŝƐŽŶůǇϮй͘

A key focus of attention will be on shortʹdistance work commuting and schools and colleges. In 1986 a total of 23,635 primary level pupils nationwide cycled to school whereas in 2006, this had declined by over 80% to only 4,087. Furthermore, the 2006 Census report on mode of transport revealed that only 1.9% of adults used a bike to go to work.

Laois County Council has demonstrated its commitment to cycling through the provision of a number of safe, direct, coherent and attractive cycle lanes as part of recently completed road infrastructure projects at the following locations: x Portlaoise Western Circular Clonrooske Link; x Portlaoise Western Circular Clonminam Link and x Killenard Traffic Management and Traffic Calming

In addition, each of the road schemes prioritised by the Council over the lifetime of the County Development Plan 2011-2017 has given ample consideration to further development of cycling facilities where appropriate.

It is envisaged that further expansion of cycling infrastructure will be encouraged as a provision of future developments by the public and private sector. Cycling infrastructure will also be funded through the ŽƵŶĐŝů͛ƐĚĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚĐŽŶƚƌŝďƵƚŝŽŶƐĐŚĞŵĞ͘

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A COUNTY WALKING STRATEGY

Laois County Council will work with relevant agencies in drawing up a County Walking Strategy which will indicate National Trails Network, Sli na Slainte, Pilgrim Paths and other defined walking trails and cycle routes. The Stratgey would promote , develop and improve this product as a critical mass.

New routes will be idientified and developed in consulation with land owners. Laois Partnership Company has done a lot of work in the development of walking in the County and runs a festival in May of every year which promotes the walks in County Laois. Laois County Council fully supports this initiaitive and will work with Laois Partnership to further develop any future projects.

The County Walking Strategy would identify the following

x A register of all walking routes within the County and preserve, protect and add additional walking routes within the life time of the plan. x Disused Roads, Canals & Railways x Undertake a feasibility study investigating the recreational use of disused railway track and the potential for establishing walking trails on parts of same. x Maps showing walking and cycling routes should be included x Sli na Slainte x Research and map the existing network of traditional paths used for leisure purposes with the intention of determining the legal basis and status of their use. x Promote and map guided walks x Continue to designate and seek to protect long distance walking routes within the county and participate in their development.

Cycling and Walking It is the policy of the Council to TT 10 / P51 Promote and facilitate the development of cycling and walking initŝĂƚŝǀĞƐƐƵĐŚĂƐ͞ǁĂůŬŝŶŐƚŽ ƐĐŚŽŽů͟ĂŶĚĨĂĐŝůŝƚŝĞƐŝŶďŽƚŚƚŚĞƵƌďĂŶĐĞŶƚƌĞƐĂƐŝĚĞŶƚŝĨŝĞĚŝŶƚŚĞ^ĞƚƚůĞŵĞŶƚ^ƚƌĂƚĞŐǇĂŶĚ rural area throughout the County; TT 10 / P52 Ensure pedestrian crossings or other infrastructure for pedestrians are located as close as possible to pedestrian desire lines taking uses that are significant pedestrian generators at certain times such as schools, cinemas etc into consideration; TT 10 / P53 Ensure that all surfaces used by cyclists are maintained to a high standard and ensure the provision of new cycle paths as part of development proposals by developers in urban or suburban areas or as part of road development schemes in urban areas by the County. Where possible these cycle lanes should be segregated from vehicular transport corridors and ensure the upgrading national roads will not impact negatively on the safety and perceived safety of cyclists.; TT 10 / P54 Investigate the role of lower speed limits in towns and villages to improve safety for pedestrian and cyclists TT 10 / P55 ZĞƋƵŝƌĞ WůĂŶŶŝŶŐ ĂƉƉůŝĐĂƚŝŽŶƐ ƚŽ ĚĞŵŽŶƐƚƌĂƚĞ ƚŚĞ ĚĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚ ƉƌŽƉŽƐĂů͛Ɛ ĂĐĐĞƐƐŝďŝůŝƚǇ ĨŽƌ pedestrians and cyclists TT 10 / P56 Prohibit the intrusion of development along public walking routes and public rights of way, particularly those in scenic areas and along inland waterways. TT 10 / P57 Protect the integrity of walking routes and potential routes and take the impact of proposed development into account when considering planning applications.

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TT 10 / P58 Reserve lands free from development to facilitate the creation of strategic cycling routes;

TT 10/ P59 Promote the expansion of cycle facilities and liaise with Failte Ireland , the Sports Council, the National Transportation Authority and other bodies in the development of cyce touring routes throughout the county and adjoining counties, in particular in areas of high amenity. TT 10 / P60 Introduce minimum cycle-parking standards for retail, commercial, residential, community and development and public transport stops and stations; TT 10 / P61 Encourage the provision of cycle parking in connection with existing public transport infrastructure stops and stations in connection with existing schools, apartments, retail and commercial developments; TT 10 / P62 Create and support the creation of dedicated walking and cycling off-road routes and the associated facilities such as car parking, etc in rural areas in suitable linear lands such as alongside waterways, cutaway bogs, forestry roads and abandoned railway lines in the interests of public health and tourism and ensure that any plan or project associated with increasing recareational access to forestry which has the potential to significantly effect a Natura 2000 site is assessed in accordance with article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of that site; TT 10 / P63 Investigate the role of lower speed limits in towns and villages to improve safety for pedestrian and cyclists; TT 10 / P64 Develop and implement a County Walking Strategy, in consultation with statutory bodies, walking clubs, community groups and landowners and Support and encourage the continued development of walking routes including Sli na Slanite and co-operate with relevant organisation including walking groups and local communities and ensure that any plan or project associated with increasing recreational access to forestry which has the potential to significantly effect a Natura 2000 site is assessed in accordance with article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of that site. TT 10 / P65 Improve and upgrade the quality of streets, especially for pedestrians, cyclists and public transport users and provide seating areas within town and village centres; TT 10 / P66 Prioritise the movement of pedestrians and cyclists in proximity to public transport nodes; TT 10 / P67 Improve facilities for pedestrians and access facilities for people with special mobility needs in line with the aims of the European Charter of Pedestrian Rights; TT 10 / P68 Ensure, where possible, that cycleways and footpaths are effectively prioritised from major vehicular carriageways TT 10 / P69 Provide interurban cycle routes along former national routes and other key routes within the County and throughout the region. TT 10 / P70 Establish new Walkways and cycle routes on a legal and permanent basis and ensure that Walking/Cycle Routes are signposted/waymarked, where possible and appropriate. TT 10 / P71 Work with the relevant authorities to prepare and implement on a progressive basis for the development of rural footpaths, cycleways and bridle paths and provide for green routes and linear parks in urban landscapes. TT 10 / P72 Prohibit the intrusion of development along public walking routes and public rights of way, particularly those in scenic areas and along inland waterways. TT 10 / P73 Protect the integrity of walking routes and potential routes and take the impact of proposed development into account when considering planning applications.

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10.8 SPECIFIC TRANSPORT OBJECTIVES 2011-2017

Laois County Council will facilitate the carrying out of the following priority road projects during the lifetime of the Plan period 2011-2017:

County Wide x N80 section north of Portlaoise, including PNOR and Mountmellick By-pass; x N77 x N78 x Repair and reinstatement of motorway haul routes; x Interurban Cycle facilities on former National Routes; x Bridge Maintenance.

Principal Town x M7 Junction 17 Off Ramp at Togher National Enterprise Park, Portlaoise; x Togher, Portlaoise Link Road Phase 2; x Borris Road, Portlaoise Realignment; x Colliers Lane, Portlaoise Improvements; x N80 Mountmellick Road , Portlaoise Improvements; x R445 Mountrath Road, Portlaoise Improvements; x R445 Dublin Road, Portlaoise Improvements; x Portlaoise Southern Orbital Route;

Key Service Town x Portarlington Western Relief Road;

Service Towns x Carlow Northern Relief Road Extension;

Local Service Towns x Rathdowney Traffic Improvements Phase 2

10.9 SURFACE WATER

A major by-product of development in both urban and rural areas in County Laois is surface water run-off. In the past, conventional drainage design was relatively simplistic; generally involving a rational method to size and locate pipes to ensure surface water was removed as quickly as possible from the site in question. This often resulted in increased potential for flooding of other areas further down the system, pollution of the natural environment and contamination of drinking water sources.

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10.9.1 Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS)

Current best practice centres on the Sustainable Drainage Systems [SUDS] approach which can best be summarised as offering a total solution to rainwater management. SUDs comprise a system of devices for managing surface water run-off in a manner that aims to simulate natural drainage, using cost effective solutions with low environmental impact to drain away surface water run-off through collection, storage and cleaning before its ultimate release into the receiving environment. The purpose of SUDS solutions is to provide a system that is easy to manage, resilient to use, requires minimal energy input and has numerous environmental and aesthetic benefits. SUDS are applicable in both urban and rural locations. Current best practice guidance on Sustainable Drainage Systems [SUDS] is available from the Guidance Documents produced by the Greater Dublin Strategic Drainage Study (GDSDS).

The Council will require that surface water be disposed of, where possible, on site and drainage will be achieved by a combination of source control and regulated discharge where the objective is to improve the quality and reduce the quantity and the rate of discharge of surface water release to nearby watercourses.

10.9.2 Storm Water

Storm water discharge has been identified by the River Basin District (RBD) project teams as one of the causes of poor water quality.

Best practice recommendations for discharge ŽĨƐƚŽƌŵǁĂƚĞƌŝƐďǇǁĂǇŽĨƐŚĂƌĞĚ͞ƌĞŐŝŽŶĂů͟ƐǇƐƚĞŵƐƌĂƚŚĞƌ than on-site systems. Similarly, surface water attenuation systems are recommended in place of underground storage of water in tanks.

Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) vary from infiltration trenches/soakways, filter drains and permeable pavements to swales, detention basins and stormwater wetlands. Other options which can also be used to assist stormwater runoff control include water-reuse, roof water collection (water butts) and rooftop gardens.

The Council also recognises the benefits of harvesting rainwater for reuse within larger developments and individual dwellings. While there is no provision for these systems in the current building regulations, the Council, in granting permission will require surface water reuse in all new developments and will seek design solutions that provide for collection, recycling and reuse of surface water to meet the non-potable needs of the proposed development in question.

Unless carefully sited and designed, new development or redevelopment can increase run off from impermeable surfaces such as roof and paved areas, which can result in problems of:

Increased risk of flooding in areas downstream of the development; Damage to river environments, damage to habitats or river channel stability.

There are a number of solutions to collection and retention of storm water on site. Artificial lakes and ponds can be created, open space can be flooded during storm conditions, underground storage tanks can be installed. The objective is to reduce the quantity of water and the speed of release to nearby rivers.

It is the policy of the Council to: TT 10 / P74 Promote storm water retention facilities for new developments and to incorporate design solutions that provide for collection and recycling of surface water in accordance with Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems as recommended in the Flooding Guidelines for WůĂŶŶŝŶŐƵƚŚŽƌŝƚŝĞƐƉƵďůŝƐŚĞĚďǇƚŚĞŽ,>'ŝŶϮϬϬϴĂŶĚ>ĂŽŝƐŽƵŶƚǇŽƵŶĐŝů͛ƐZŽĂĚƐĂŶĚ Drainage Standards.

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10.10 FLOOD RISK

The following is a core aim of the Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017 ͞dŽŵŝŶŝŵŝƐĞƚŚĞůĞǀĞůŽĨĨůŽŽĚƌŝƐŬƚŽƉĞŽƉůĞ͕ďƵƐŝŶĞƐƐ͕ŝŶĨƌĂƐƚƌƵĐƚƵƌĞĂŶĚƚŚĞĞŶǀŝƌŽŶŵĞŶƚ͕ƚŚƌŽƵŐŚƚŚĞ identification and management of existing, and particularly potential future , flood risks. Flood risk will be incorporated in an integrated, pro active and transparent manner in line with evolving best practice into ĚĞĐŝƐŝŽŶŵĂŬŝŶŐƉƌŽĐĞƐƐĞƐĨŽƌĨƵƚƵƌĞĚĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚĂŶĚƵƐĞŽĨůĂŶĚŝŶƚŚĞŽƵŶƚǇ͘͟DĂƉϭ͘ϭϬ͘ϯŝŶĚŝĐĂƚĞƐ flood zones A and B in County Laois.

The Council has adopted policies for a more rigorous assessment of flood risk having regard to the EU Floods Directive and the Planning System and Flood Risk Management Guidelines (2009) issued by the DoEHLG. The Council has identified floodplains which merit preservation and will safeguard these areas from inappropriate development. In making its zoning decisions and planning application decisions, the Council will rely on the best available flood-risk data and will be mindful of the unpredictable nature of climate change.

The Council will protect wetlands (bogs and fens) from drainage works where planning permission is required. The Council will assess the surface water drainage implications of proposed new developments in urban and suburban areas.

Measures such as the installation of interceptors or bunding of domestic oil tanks should be provided to minimize contamination. Applicants must provide design specifications, calculations and rationale for ƉƌŽƉŽƐĞĚĚƌĂŝŶĂŐĞƐǇƐƚĞŵƐŝŶĂĐĐŽƌĚĂŶĐĞǁŝƚŚƚŚĞŽƵŶĐŝů͛Ɛ^ƚŽƌŵtĂƚĞƌDĂŶĂŐĞŵĞŶƚWŽůŝĐǇϮϬϬϳŽƌĂƐ amended. Storm water discharge rates from any new residential or commercial development should not exceed that of a pre-development green or brownfield site.

FLOODING It is the Policy of the Council to: TT 10 / P75 Supports the carrying out of catchment-based Flood Risk Assessments and Management Plans for the Barrow, Nore and Shannon catchments as these relate to County Laois and ensure that CFRMP and management measures have the potential to impact negatively on Natura 2000 sites are subject to Appropriate Assessment; TT 10 / P76 Prioritise plans for flood defence works in the towns as indicated in the Strategic Flood Risk Assessment in order to mitigate against potential flood risk TT 10 / P77 Protect water sinks because of their flood management function, as well as their biodiversity and amenity value and encourage the restoration or creation of water sinks as flood defence mechanisms, where appropriate; TT 10 / P78 Ensure the use of sustainable urban drainage systems for new developments in accordance ǁŝƚŚƚŚĞŽƵŶĐŝů͛ƐĚƌĂŝŶĂŐĞŚŝĞƌĂƌĐŚǇ͖ TT 10 / P79 Carry out detailed flood risk assessment at LAP level for the following towns, Portlaosie, Portarlington, Mountmellick and Graiguecullen as highlighted in the SFRA, and ensure cross- Country consultation where appropriate.

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TT 10 / P80 Adopt a precautionary approach to flood risk in its development management decisions13. TT 10 / P81 Ensure protection of Natura 2000 sites supporting rivers and streams by avoiding development on floodplains and ensure flood risk assessment policies, plans or projects are compliant with Article 6 of the Habitats Directive and avoid or mitigate negative impacts on Natura 2000 sites

13 The Council may require the carrying out of a site-specific flood risk assessment by the developer, where development is proposed in an area where a flood event has previously occurred or in an area that flood risk data indicates that flood risk may be an issue. Site-specific flood risk assessments are to be carried out in accordance with the Flood Risk Management Guidelines.

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155 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

No 156 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

11 WATER SERVICES

CORE AIM To ensure a good quality of life and good health for all residents of Laois through maintaining and improving waste water treatment and water supply infrastructure which support the county settlement strategy without harmful effects on the environment.

11.1 INTRODUCTION

Laois County Council recognises that the provision of a high quality water supply and wastewater infrastructure is fundamental to ensuring the long-term physical, environmental, social and economic development of the County as envisaged in the County Development Plan, Regional Planning Guidelines and National Spatial Strategy. The unprecedented expansion of the population and economy of County Laois that has taken place over the last decade in particular has placed significant pressures on water and wastewater treatment facilities in the County to such an extent that significant deficits are now evident in many settlements throughout the County.

Table 20: Housing Land Requirement 2006-2018 for County Laois

Pop. 2006 Projected Projected Projected ***Existing Existing Proposed Capacity (CSO) Pop. 2018 Pop. Growth increase in Sewerage Loading expressed in PE to 2018 Households to Treatment Plant expressed in 2018 capacity expressed PE in PE

County Laois 67,059 77,059 10,000 4,167 11.1.1 11.1.2 11.1.3

Southern Development Area (MRPGs] 11.1.4 11.1.5

Portlaoise 14,356 18,106 3,750 1,563 39,000 27,000 39,000

Mountmellick 4,069 4,704 635 265 7,000 6,000 8,000 phase 2, 18,000 phase 3

Graiguecullen 2,529 2,924 395 164 *36,000 tbc tbc

Abbeyleix 1,568 1,813 245 102 2,300 2,154 4,000

Stradbally 1,056 1,221 165 69 2,000 1,599 3,500

Mountrath 1,435 1,659 224 93 2,500 2,000 4,500

SubͶtotal 10,657 12,321 1,664 693 11.1.6 11.1.7 11.1.8 Rathdowney 1,212 1,401 189 79 1,500 2,022 3,500

Durrow 811 938 127 53 1,200 1,213 3,000

Sub-total 2,023 2,339 316 132 11.1.9 11.1.10 11.1.11

Eastern Development Area {MRPGs] 11.1.12 11.1.13

Portarlington 4,395 4,829 434 181 **13,000 12,000 15,000 phase 1, 20,000 phase 2

****Villages less 11.1.14 11.1.15 1,536 640 3,900 4,006 5,300 than 800

Open 11.1.16 11.1.17 2,300 958 11.1.18 11.1.19 11.1.20 Countryside

TOTAL 11.1.21 11.1.22 10,000 4,167 11.1.23 11.1.24 11.1.25

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*Effluent from the town of Graiguecullen is treated at the Mortarstown Effluent Treatment Plant which is located in the functional area of Carlow County Council.

**Portarlington plant treats effluent from the town of Portarlington [both Laois and Offaly parts of the town], as well as from the outlying settlements of Killenard and Ballybrittas.

***It is important to note that the existing Sewerage Treatment Plant Capacity expressed in PE relates to not only effluent generated by residential uses, but also includes effluent from other significant generators including industrial, commercial, educational, leisure etc. This is an important consideration to bear in mind.

****The villages in question are those with 2006 CSO population of greater than 400 namely Ballylynan, Borris-in-Ossory, Ballinakill and Clonaslee.

11.2 CONTEXT

ŶƵƉĚĂƚĞĚ͚EĞĞĚƐƐƐĞƐƐŵĞŶƚ͛ for water and wastewater infrastructure covering the period 2010-2012 has been prepared by the Water Services Section of Laois County Council in accordance with DoEHLG Circular L6/09 of July 2009. The main purpose of the assessment was to develop an overall strategic investment Plan to meet the identified water and wastewater infrastructural requirements of County Laois in the short to medium term.

As required by Circular L6/09 a schedule of schemes has been prioritised under the following four works categories:

Category 1...... Water Conservation schemes that meet environmental, public health and/or economic goals,

Category 2...... Required in response to European Court of Justice (ECJ) Judgements,

Category 3...... Schemes to secure compliance with statutory environmental or public health requirements and the Water Framework Directive,

Category 4...... Works to support sustainable development of gateways and hubs under the National Spatial Strategy, strategic development areas and works to support employment creation.

The strategy in prioritising the various projects is as follows: x To construct and bring to completion projects Planned and initiated during the period to 2009, x To address potential water supply deficiencies in terms of quality, quantity and security of supply for the towns and villages of Laois under the greatest pressure, for example Portlaoise, Mountmellick, Portarlington, Durrow, Graiguecullen, Ballyroan, Newtown Doonane. x To address existing and potential deficiencies in the sewage treatment facilities of towns and villages already served by such facilities, prioritised on the basis of their existing and projected capacity deficits and the waste assimilative capacity of their receiving waters. This situation is prevalent throughout the County but is particularly pressing in Portarlington and Mountmellick and in the 5 Grouped Towns of Abbeyleix, Durrow, Mountrath, Stradbally and Rathdowney where a moratorium on development of a substantial nature is in place for the foreseeable future. x To provide wastewater treatment facilities for the smaller towns and villages not currently served by such facilities, on the basis of the need to protect groundwater and surface water resources and

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the potential for development and growth within the parameters set out in the County Development Plan and the National Spatial Strategy. The vast majority of the smaller settlements of County Laois including the 22 so called Grouped Villages of Arles, Attanagh, Ballacolla, Ballyadams, Ballybrophy, Ballyfin, Camross, Cappalug, Clough, Coolrain, Crossneen, Cullahill, Donaghmore, Kilbricken, Killeshin, Raheen, Ratheniska, Rath/Fisherstown, Rosenallis, Shanahoe, The Rock and Vicarstown Newtown, The Swan, Ballinakill, Errill and Ballyroan belong in this category. x To complete a Strategic Study of Water Supply in Laois up to 2020. x To provide linking trunk mains and associated storage capacity where needed between the main water supply systems to ensure security of supply to the main population centres.

11.3 WATER SUPPLY

Water supplies to homes and businesses in the County is provided from both public and private sources. The bulk of the supply-85%-is sourced from groundwater sources, with the remainder coming from surface water sources including the River Barrow [serving Portarlington], Catholes [Mountmellick] and River Clodiagh [Clonaslee]. See Map 1.11.1.

The crucial importance of ground water resources and abstraction points is recognised by the Council. The Council will protect and safeguard sources in the interests of the common good and public health. Sustainability requires that these groundwater resources be protected for future generations. Developments will be prohibited which would compromise these aquifer zones or that would affect the provision or quality of water supplies to the public in accordance with the EPA Ground Water Protection Scheme. The Council proposes to develop major water supply sources drawing from the Portlaoise Aquifer and it is policy to afford same careful protection.

Public water mains

Group water scheme with Local Authority Source GWS with private source

other private source

Source: CSO, 2006 Figure 4 Number of permanent private households in County Laois by type of Water Supply, 2006

11.3.1 Rural Water Protection

Rural water supplies are exposed to disparate sources of contamination including domestic and agricultural and other uses. Careful protection of water resources from pollution is a priority of the Council. The control of pollution and prevention of contamination of groundwater and watercourses will be assessed in developments which discharge to groundwater or watercourses. Effluents must be treated and discharged in a satisfactory manner.

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The Council will require that all single dwelling treatment systems are designed to comply with the EPA Groundwater Protection Scheme and are constructed in accordance with the EPA Code of Practice for Wastewater Treatment Systems serving Single Houses (2009) and any subsequent updates of this document from the Environmental Protection Agency (E.P.A). All percolation areas for any systems must be certified by a competent person carrying appropriate indemnities as being fit for the purpose.

11.3.2 Public Water Supplies

The Council currently supplies 43 million litres of water each day to its customers. The Council samples and analyses its public water supplies in accordance with the requirements of Drinking Water Regulations 2007.

The Council proposes to improve and extend the water supply infrastructure to serve the planned levels of growth set out in the Plan where necessary and economically viable. Laois County Council figures shows that there were 20,685 domestic connections and 3,784 commercial connections in the County in 2008.

11.3.3 Group Water Schemes

The Council is a supervisory authority for 43 Group water schemes. In addition the Council samples and analyses private water supplies from 62 Group Water Schemes and 3 individual private commercial supplies. Table 21 sets out the list of the Group Water Schemes monitored.

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Table 21 Group Water Schemes in LAOIS 2010

Scheme Name Scheme Name

Ballacolla GWS Derrylamogue GWS

Ballinclea GWS Donaghmore GWS

Ballyadams Phase II Drim GWS

Ballybrophy GWS Errill GWS

Ballybuggy GWS Forest GWS

Ballycarnan GWS Garrentaggart No.2 GWS

Ballypickas GWS Garrentaggart No.3 GWS

Barringtowns Hollow GWS Garryheather GWS

Barrowhouse GWS Graiguenahown GWS

Bishopswood GWS Grogan GWS

Clonkeen GWS Ironmills GWS

Coolnaboul-Kilcoran GWS Knockahonagh GWS

Ballypickas GWS Kyledellig GWS

Coolrusk GWS Monascreeban GWS

Corrig GWS Moyadd No.2 GWS

Dereen GWS Pallas GWS

Rahanavannagh GWS The Island GWS

Ratheniska GWS Vicarstown No.2 GWS

The Heath GWS Vicarstown No.3 GWS

11.3.4 Private Wells

In exceptional circumstances where it is not possible or reasonable to connect to the Council network, the Council may allow the provision of a private well. In all circumstances the applicant will need to clearly demonstrate that a suitable site is available and that sewage treatment can be accommodated without negative impact on the proposed water source. CSO figures from the 2006 Census showed that there were 5,118 private wells in the County.

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The following table indicates the scheme of priority for 2010-2012.

Table 22 Proposed Water Supply Schemes 2010-2012

LOCATION PROPOSAL

Portlaoise and Mountmellick Water Construction of 10 new wells, 12 km. of new water mains, Supply Scheme; new reservoirs at Emo, Straboe, and Acragar and extended capacity at Kilminchy Water Treatment Plant 11.3.5

Portarlington Water Supply Scheme; Development of 3 new wellfields at Lough, Doolough, and La Bergerie, water treatment Plant and reservoir at 11.3.6 Carrick Hill and approx. 3 km of distribution mains

Graiguecullen Development of 2 new wells, reservoir and treatment Plant and water mains.

Ballyroan Development of 1 new well source and water mains

11.4 WATER CONSERVATION

The supply of potable water is a resource which must be used in a sustainable manner. This can be achieved by careful management of distribution networks and by continuous leak detection and repair to minimise wastage on both the customer and public provision of the network. Pro-active demand management also assists in minimising volumes of potable water required in the County.

During the lifetime of the County Development Plan 2006-2012, the Council identified Water Conservation as a priority and established a capital programme, to provide infrastructure and management systems to allow monitoring of pipelines and addressing leakage within the water supply infrastructure within the County.

Considerable success was achieved and significant amounts of previously unidentified leaks have been successfully addressed. This work will continue during the life of the new Plan.

Under the National Water Conservation Programme, the DoEHLG are providing funding to Laois County Council. Expenditure under the programme falls into three stages: x Stage 1 puts in place water management systems; x Stage 2 establishes the basis for proper leakage control; x Stage 3 involves infrastructural renewal and rehabilitation.

Water Supply It is the policy of the Council to WS 11 / P01 Continue the development and upgrading of the water supply system so as to ensure that an adequate, sustainable and economic supply of piped water of suitable quality is available for domestic, commercial, industrial, fire safety and other use for the sustainable development of the County in accordance with the settlement structure identified in this Plan, the Needs

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Assessment of Laois County Council and as finances permit and ensure that any plan or project associated with the provision of water supply or wastewater and surface water treatment are assessed in accordance with Article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on Natura 2000 sites ; WS 11 / P02 seek to accommodate any expansion required to the reservoir for the Greater Dublin and Midlands Water supply project in County Laois should the need occur and subject to the project being assessed in accordance with Article 6 of the Habitats Directive in order to avoid adverse impacts on Natura 2000 sites and proper planning and sustainable development ;

WS 11 / P03 Protect and develop, in a sustainable manner, the existing groundwater sources and aquifers in the County and to control development in a manner consistent with the proper management of these resources, in accordance with the County Aquifer Protection Plan and ensure the protection of groundwater dependant Natura 2000 sites which rely on the continued supply of groundwater resources to secure the key environmental conditions that support the integrity of the site and through the protection of groundwater standards as defined by the South East River Basin Management Plan ; WS 11 / P04 Concentrate infrastructure improvement and provision in those areas of the County which offer the greatest potential for residential, industrial and commercial development, as identified in the County Settlement strategy; WS 11 / P05 Co-operate with adjoining local authorities to continue the sustainable development and improvement of the water supply and treatment systems throughout the County to meet the anticipated drainage requirements of the area ensure cross boundary cooperation and consistency in relation to policy and planning for the protection of water dependent Natura 2000 sites such as surface water systems and groundwater resources that cross administrative boundaries; WS 11 / P06 Assess all applications in the context of available infrastructural facilities and to prohibit those proposals that would put undue pressure on available resources; WS 11 / P07 Implement the measures under the Rural Water Programme so as to improve the quality, reliability and efficiency of water supplies for rural dwellers; WS 11 / P08 Promote public awareness and involvement in water conservation measures by households, businesses and industries; WS 11 / P09 Promote and encourage the harvesting of rainwater to meet non-potable water needs; WS 11 / P10 Protect groundwater resources and abstraction points; WS 11 / P11 Establish zones of protection for aquifers and control development within these zones. Where no detailed Plan for protection of a specific source is available wastewater discharge will not be permitted within a radius of 300 metres of that source; WS 11 / P12 Require the installation of proprietary wastewater treatment systems where development is permitted in these zones; WS 11 / P13 Publicise and implement the County Aquifer Protection Plan. To continuously update the Protection Plan to take account of the development of new sources; WS 11 / P14 Require that wastewater systems and their associated percolation systems comply in full with the requirements of the Environmental Protection Agency Ground Water Protection Scheme (EPA 2000 and subsequent publications). WS 11 / P15 Install sustainable energy provision at new and upgraded water supply facilities ensuring water supply independent of fossil fuel generated power; WS 11 / P16 Investigate the possibility of natural water treatment options.

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11.5 WASTEWATER TREATMENT

The issue of treating waste water effluent to the highest possible standards is a growing problem. The CSO Census in 2006 showed that out of a total of 22,421 permanent private households in County Laois, 11,364 houses [51%] were connected to the public sewer while 9,895 [44%] were connected to individual septic ƚĂŶŬƐ͘dŚĞƌĞŵĂŝŶŝŶŐϭ͕ϭϲϮŚŽƵƐĞŚŽůĚƐ΀ϱй΁ǁĞƌĞůŝƐƚĞĚĂƐ͞ŝŶĚŝǀŝĚƵĂůƚreatment-not septic tank, other, no ĨĂĐŝůŝƚǇĂŶĚŶŽƚƐƚĂƚĞĚ͟ŽŶƚŚĞ^KĚĂƚĂ͘ĐĐŽƌĚŝŶŐůǇ͕ŝĨƚŚĞƐĞƉƚŝĐƚĂŶŬƐĂƌĞŶŽƚĨƵŶĐƚŝŽŶŝŶŐƉƌŽƉĞƌůǇ͕ƚŚŝƐ has the potential to cause pollution to ground water and/or run-off to surface waters.

Public schemes

Individual septic tanks

individual treatment (not septic tanks) other

None

Not Stated

Source: CSO, 2006 Figure 5 Number of permanent private households in County Laois by type of sewerage facility, 2006

General funding for the provision of wastewater treatment infrastructure is available under the major capital schemes, small schemes investment programme and the grouped design build and operate schemes from the DoEHLG. One other source of funding, the Serviced Land Initiative [SLI] which was used to partly finance Mountmellick Sewerage Scheme Phase 1, has been discontinued by the DoEHLG since 2009.

The Water Services Investment Programme ʹ Assessment of Needs (2009) identified the key projects for the improvement of sewage treatment in towns and villages in the County from 2010-2012. A number of Plants are identified for upgrading and improvement.

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Table 23 Proposed Wastewater Treatment Schemes 2010-2012

LOCATION PROPOSAL

Portlaoise Main Drainage Scheme practically complete, network contract finalised, performance testing of treatment Plant being carried 11.5.1 out at present 11.5.2 11.5.3

Laois Grouped Towns Sewerage Scheme provision of new wastewater treatment Plants in Abbeyleix, Durrow, Mountrath, Rathdowney and 11.5.4 Stradbally, DBO Contract

Laois Grouped Towns Sewerage Scheme extension and rehabilitation of sewer network, separation of surface water from combined sewer 11.5.5 network, provision of pumping stations to serve low- lying areas in Abbeyleix, Clonaslee, Durrow, Mountrath, Rathdowney and Stradbally, Network Contract

Grouped Villages Sewerage Scheme roll-out of wastewater treatment Plants in Attanagh, Ballacolla, Ballyfin, Camross, Cappalug, Clough, 11.5.6 Cullahill, Killeshin, Rosenallis, Shanahoe and Vicarstown, Phase 3 11.5.7

Grouped Villages Sewerage Scheme roll-out of wastewater treatment Plants in Arles, Ballyadams, Ballybrophy, Coolrain, Crossneen, 11.5.8 Donaghmore, Kilbricken, Raheen, Ratheniska, Rath/Fisherstown, and The Rock, Phase 4

Laois Villages Sewerage Scheme installation of wastewater treatment Plants in Ballinakill, Ballyroan, Errill, Newtown-Doonane, and 11.5.9 The Swan, Phase 1

Clonaslee Wastewater Treatment Plant a unique project in County Laois involving building of an Integrated Constructed Wetland to provide 1200 pe 11.5.10 wastewater treatment capacity for Clonaslee so as to ensure compliance with EPA licence

Development proposals in villages that are not within the current Investment Programme will have to examine alternate approaches to dealing with effluent. This may be through a developer led approach to the upgrading or provision of a treatment Plant for the village or through the use of individual systems for dwellings in small clusters layouts. Generally, spending on developing sewers will be in line with the Water Service Pricing Policy.

Laois County Council requires that any proposal covering development of a village or local area that includes a treatment works will be supported by a report from a competent consultant on the sizing of the treatment works. The report will show all calculations and express the maximum assimilative capacity of the receiving water in terms of population equivalent (PE) for the standard of treatment proposed.

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Energy efficiency will be a consideration in the assessment of sewage networks. This requires that natural drainage towards a treatment Plant will be favoured when considering new developments. When this is not possible then the number of pumping operations required to convey foul water to the treatment Plant shall be minimised. Any pumping station that is installed should service the largest practicable catchment area of any natural drainage basin. The Council will implement the Sustainable Residential Development in Urban Areas, Guidelines for Planning Authorities, 2008, published by the DoEHLG in examining all proposals.

Integrated Constructed Wetlands

The Integrated Constructed Wetlands (ICW) concept provides an alternative strategy to conventional practice for treatment of waste-waters. By adopting and implementing a strategy that integrates the management of land, water and biological resources, whilst promoting conservation and sustainable use in an equitable way, the ICW concept addresses the objectives of the EU Water Framework Directive. The intention of the ICW concept is to optimize water management and integrate the benefits from its associated wetland infrastructure to deliver a wide range of environmental returns, such as the protection and enhancement of biodiversity, the delivery of good ecological status, the protection of fisheries and improved landscape aesthetics.

11.5.11 Grease and Oil Pollution

Restaurants, commercial kitchens, garages, are all examples of development that create waste oils and grease. The Council will require that all commercial developments demonstrate, as part of a Planning application, how surface oils, kitchen oils, and other unctuous material will be contained on site and removed through recycling or other sustainable means.

11.5.12 Wastewater Management

Most of the major centres of population require implementation of the national Urban Wastewater Treatment Regulations in order to comply with EU requirements.

11.5.13 Waste Water Discharges

The Waste Water Discharge (Authorisation) Regulations, 2007 require that all public waste water discharges be licensed by the EPA on a phased basis. This application and licensing process is well underway in this County. Each of these public waste water discharges must comply with the sampling frequency and the quality standards set out in the Urban Waste Water Treatment Regulations, 2001.

WASTE WATER TREATMENT It is the Policy of the Council to WS 11 / P17 Facilitate the provision of adequate wastewater collection and treatment systems in towns and villages in the County to serve existing and future populations in accordance with the County Settlement Strategy identified in this Plan, the Water Framework Directive, the Needs Assessment of Laois County Council and as finances permit, thus improving the quality of surface and ground waters in County Laois; WS 11 / P18 Concentrate infrastructure improvement and provision in those areas of the County which offer the greatest potential for residential, industrial and commercial development, as identified in the County Settlement strategy; WS 11 / P19 Develop additional treatment capacity at existing Plants where required to meet new developments ensuring compliance with the measures of the Southeast River Basin Management Plan and Shannon International River Basin Management Plan;

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WS 11 / P20 Co-operate with adjoining local authorities to continue the sustainable development and improvement of the wastewater treatment systems throughout the County to meet the anticipated drainage requirements of the area; WS 11 / P21 Require the provision of wastewater treatment for single houses in line with the EPA Code of Practice 2009 and groundwater protection schemes͘͟. WS 11/ P 22 Promote use of wetland systems for treatment of waste-water in accordance with Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government guidelines ͞/ŶƚĞŐƌĂƚĞĚ Constructed Wetlands -Guidance Document for Farmyard Soiled Water and Domestic tĂƐƚĞǁĂƚĞƌƉƉůŝĐĂƚŝŽŶƐ͟ [2010]. WS 11 / P23 Ensure that plans and projects associated with the provision of waste water treatment facilities are assessed according to Article 6 of the Habitats Directive.

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12 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT

CORE AIM To ensure a good quality environment by minimising the adverse impacts of development on the environment through policies for the management of wastes and emissions

12.1 INTRODUCTION

The effective management of the impacts of development works and land uses on the natural environment is essential to good quality of life, human health, wildlife and diverse ecological systems. The Council will ensure that environmental protection measures are taken to prevent environmental pollution, that such measures are guided by international and national policy such as sustainable development, Local Agenda ϮϭĂŶĚƚŚĞ͞WŽůůƵƚĞƌWĂǇƐWƌŝŶĐŝƉůĞ͘͟

12.2 CONTEXT

This chapter was informed by numerous pieces of legislation including EU Directives, national legislation and regulation, DoEHLG guidelines in relation to Flooding, Appropriate Assessment and Strategic Environmental Assessment, EPA guidelines in relation to waste-water treatment and the Water Framework Directive 2000.

12.3 CLIMATE CHANGE

It is widely accepted that current levels of greenhouse gas emissions such as carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide are changing climates. Government policy to reduce greenhouses gases is focused on using more renewable forms of energy and driving patterns of development that are suitable for more sustainable forms of transport. The maintenance and creation of carbon sinks such as peatlands and woodlands also forms part of the strategy.

12.4 LOCAL AGENDA 21

Sustainable development is defined as 'Development which meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs'. Meeting community needs, protecting our environment and creating a vibrant economy are at the heart of a sustainable community. Laois County Council, as well as numerous individuals and organisations across the County, work with these inter-connected objectives in mind. We need to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Although national and local governments are expected to take the lead in ensuring the stability of our common future, everyone has a part to play. The following five goals were identified in the One Shared Sustainable Vision for County Laois: A Policy for Sustainable Development 2009-2012:

Goal 1: Promotion of Sustainable Living; Goal 2: Promotion of Sustainable Employment; Goal 3: Promoting Sustainable Land Use Management; Goal 4: Facilitating and Promoting Sustainable Transport Programmes;

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Goal 5: Promotion and Awareness of Sustainable Development Initiatives.

This vision has been developed through the Local Agenda 21 process with Elected Members, Strategic Policy Committees, Corporate Policy Group and in consultation with local communities and partner agencies.

The challenge is now to move towards real participation in achieving these goals to make the vision of sustainable development a reality in our daily lives. This can only be achieved once there is a balance between environmental performance, social inclusion and economic development. It is therefore important to recognise the role that we all can play, as individuals, in achieving sustainable development.

The main objectives in relation to environmental management are as follows:

Objectives ENV 12 / O01 Implement the goals as set out in the One Shared Sustainable Vision for County Laois: A Policy for Sustainable Development 2009-2012; ENV 12 / O02 Ensure development works and land uses do not have serious adverse environmental effects having regard to environmental indicators such as air, water, soil, noise, light, biodiversity, landscape and protected sites or species; ENV 12 / O03 Maintain good water quality in ground and surface water bodies and restore good status of water bodies in Laois where they fall short either biologically or chemically of this standard; ENV 12 / O04 Protect Natura 2000 sites from significant adverse effects having regard to the conservation objectives of each site and in particular foster an improvement in the conservation status of the Nore fresh water pearl mussel which is currently critically endangered; ENV 12 / O05 Adopt a precautionary and preferential strategy to the management of flood risk by way of avoiding areas at risk of flooding, substituting less vulnerable land uses or subject to a sequential test managing and mitigating flood risk; ENV 12 / O06 Support forestry in appropriate locations, as a means of carbon sequestration and in particular encourage the Planting of broadleaf species and ensure the preservation of sites of native woodland conservation importance and of individual fine tree specimens of landscape or townscape importance; ENV 12 / O07 Reduce the emission of green house gases and prepare for climate change having regard to forecasted changes, the assumptions underlying these forecasts and the unpredictability of natural processes; ENV 12 / O08 ŶĐŽƵƌĂŐĞĂƌĞĚƵĐƚŝŽŶŝŶƚŚĞŐĞŶĞƌĂƚŝŽŶŽĨǁĂƐƚĞĂŶĚƚŽŝŵƉůĞŵĞŶƚƚŚĞ͞ŝŶƚĞŐƌĂƚĞĚǁĂƐƚĞ ŵĂŶĂŐĞŵĞŶƚ͟ ĂƉƉƌŽĂĐŚ͕ ďĂƐĞĚ ŽŶ ƚŚĞ ŝŶƚĞƌŶĂƚŝŽŶĂůůǇ ĂĚŽƉƚĞĚ ŚŝĞƌĂƌĐŚǇ ŽĨ ŽƉƚŝŽŶƐ ǁŚich places greatest emphasis on waste prevention, followed by minimisation, re-use, recycling, energy recovery and, finally, the environmentally sustainable disposal of residual waste.

12.5 WATER QUALITY

Good quality water is essential in supporting diverse and varied ecosystems, sustainable communities and a developed economy. National trends indicate that the number of high quality river sites has halved over the last twenty years and that ground water is suffering significant and sustained decline in quality. In light of conclusive scientific data, it is clear that the chemical quality and availability of groundwater and chemical and biological quality of surface water are under significant pressure. The pressures on water quality have been examined and quantified. The suspected principal causes for unsatisfactory water quality are nutrients from agricultural activities and municipal waste-water treatment.

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Other contributing factors include industrial discharges, wastewater from unsewered properties; quarrying, mining and landfill activities as well as water abstractions. In addition, dangerous substances used in cars, households, industry, forestry, agriculture, construction and water and waste water treatment facilities and invasive alien species can be harmful to aquatic ecosystems and climate change may present challenges to water quality management in the future.

12.5.1 The Water Framework Directive

The Water Framework Directive was adopted by the EU to halt and reverse the decline in water quality and requires the preparation of catchment based management Plan. The Nore, Barrow catchments and a tributary of the Shannon catchments are in County Laois.

Map 1.12.1: Water Framework Catchments

ĚŵŝŶŝƐƚƌĂƚŝǀĞůǇƚŚĞ^ŽƵƚŚĂƐƚĞƌŶZŝǀĞƌĂƐŝŶDĂŶĂŐĞŵĞŶƚWůĂŶĐŽǀĞƌƐƚŚĞĐĂƚĐŚŵĞŶƚƐƚŽƚŚĞƌŝǀĞƌ͛ƐEŽƌĞ͕ Barrow, Suir, Slaney and a number of smaller rivers around the coast, along with the costal waters bordering these river catchments. The Shannon catchment is covered by the Shannon International River Basin Management Plan. Both Plans were adopted by Laois County Council in March 2010 and approved by the minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government in July 2010.

The chemical and ecological quality of water is resilient once polluting activities have ceased, however where significant degradation of the water-based habitat has occurred, significant time may lapse before the habitat can be re-established. Ambitious and rigorous targets in relation to the quality of ground and surface water are set down in the directive and these have been developed in the River Basin Management

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Plans (RBMPs). RBMPs relate to all waters including rivers, canals, groundwater, lakes and protected wetlands.

The status of existing water bodies and the targets for same are indicated in the figures below. Laois currently contains surface water of high, good, moderate, poor and bad ecological quality; it contains surface water of good chemical quality; it contains ground water of good and poor quality. A number of protected areas (Natura 2000 sites) in Laois are water sensitive including river, bog and fen.

The Nore Freshwater Pearl Mussel, known as Margaritifera durrovensis is found in the River Nore in Laois. This species is unique to the river Nore and is not found anywhere else in the world. It has been critically endangered for some time. The quality of its habitat is failing (evidence of heavy siltation, macrophyte and filamentous green algal growth) and its population demographic profile is weak (insufficient number of juveniles present to provide sustainable replacement of current adults). A sub-basin management Plan for the Nore freshwater pearl mussel is been prepared, which indicates the sensitivity of the species and includes environmental objectives.

Various sections of the Council will be fundamental to the success of meeting the targets set down in the South Eastern and Shannon International River Basin District Management Plans. Important elements in delivering targets include the regime of Planning permissions, waste permits and discharge licenses and enforcement of Planning law, waste management law and water pollution law as well as the provision of municipal waste water treatment and drinking water, municipal landfills, the management of the County road network and related drainage network. Activities outside the remit of the Council such as agricultural and forestry development exempted from Planning permission may have a significant impact on whether targets are met.

The Council will work together with other government agencies such as Coillte etc. and with the community including the farming community to protect the environment through the effective management of environmental resources.

12.5.2 Groundwater Protection

A number of surface water bodies are protected by way of SAC designation. Sensitive aquifers which form part of the groundwater network also require protection and careful management. The following aquifers have been identified for protection in consultation with the Geological Survey of Ireland. Map 1.12.1 indicates the County Aquifers Protection Plan.

Some areas may not have suitable hydro-geological conditions, to accommodate a conventional septic tank or proprietary system; in addition a high density of septic tanks in an area may cause a reduction in water quality.

If septic tanks or proprietary systems do not work properly or are located in areas where the geology and soil are unsuitable for percolation-based treatment systems, nutrients, organic material, chemicals and bacteria may seep from wastewater into groundwater and contaminate nearby wells and damage the quality of receiving rivers.

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Water Quality It is the policy of the Council to ENV 12 / P01 Consult as necessary with other competent authorities with responsibility for environmental management; ENV 12 / P02 Comply with the provisions of the Water Framework Directive 2000; ENV 12 / P03 Implement the measures of the South East and Shannon River Basin Management Plans relating to water quality in County Laois; ENV 12 / P04 Protect groundwater sources by way of aquifer protection zones; ENV 12 / P05 Encourage the employment of catchment-sensitive farming practices, in order to meet Water Framework Directive targets and comply with the South East River Basin Management Plan 2009-2015. Land-use Planning of agricultural development is an important element of catchment sensitive farming. ENV 12 / P06 Implement the EPA Code of Practice for Wastewater Treatment Systems serving Single Houses (2009) in order to protect water quality. ENV 12 / P07 Ensure that developments that may adversely affect water quality will not proceed unless mitigatory measures are employed, such as settlements ponds, interceptors etc ENV 12 / P08 Provide Environmental Awareness programs raising awareness regarding the management of Environmental Resources.

12.6 SOIL QUALITY

The Council has prepared soil protection policies in order to protect this environmental resource which is not as resilient as other environmental receptors to pollution.

Soil Quality It is the Council policy to ENV 12 / P09 Ensure good soil quality throughout the County by requiring developments of a certain nature (as specified in the relevant environmental legislation) to carry out assessments of the impact of the development on soil quality; ENV 12/ P10 Recognise the significant impacts of land use, land use change and sludge generation and treatment in relation to carbon loss/stocks and should also recognise the function of soil assessment and management, carbon sinks, carbon sequestration and restoration of degraded lands in plan led settlement and development strategies ENV 12 / P11 Require developers to carry out a land contamination survey to determine the condition of the land where lands may have been at risk; ENV 12 / P12 Continue to consult with the EPA in the remediation of contaminated lands.

12.7 AIR QUALITY

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is the body responsible for the monitoring of air quality in Ireland. The Council is the regulatory authority under the Air Pollution Act 1997 and Licensing of Industrial Plant Regulations. Under the above legislation Laois County Council is empowered to improve air quality and prevent pollution. The Council has adopted policies in relation to air quality having regard to its importance to a good quality of life, public health and environmental sustainability.

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Air Quality It is the Council policy to ENV 12 / P13 Ensure good air quality throughout the County by requiring developments of a certain nature to carry out assessments of the impact of the development on air quality; ENV 12 / P14 Encourage the use of appropriate mitigation measures, such as dust dampeners, chimney stack scrubbers, etc to minimize the potential impacts of developments on air quality; ENV 12 / P15 Encourage more sustainable modes of transport and a more balanced modal spilt to reduce carbon emissions; ENV 12 / P16 Encourage renewable energy uses.

12.8 NOISE

The protection of noise sensitive land uses such as residential uses are important in order to foster a good quality of life. Noise associated with construction works is considered to be temporary in nature and therefore is generally not a material consideration. However the Council will strive to shape development throughout the County to minimise the harmful effects of noise pollution on the community of County Laois.

Noise Pollution It is the Council policy to ENV 12 / P17 Require an assessment of impact of the developments on noise levels; ENV 12 / P18 Restrict development proposals causing noise pollution in excess of best practice standards .

12.9 LIGHT POLLUTION

The limitation of light pollution is important in the interests of nature conservation, residential amenity and energy efficiency. Standards in relation to lighting proposals are indicated in the Design Standards section of this Plan.

Light Pollution It is the policy of the Council to ENV 12 / P19 Encourage the maintenance of dark skies in rural areas and limit light pollution in urban and suburban areas.

12.10 WASTE MANAGEMENT

In terms of waste management, Laois County Council operates in the context of the Midlands Region Waste Management Plan 2005-2010 which includes the functional areas of Counties Longford, North Tipperary, Westmeath and Offaly.

The Plan is based on the EU waste management hierarchy, which prioritises waste prevention, minimisation, reuse/recycling, disposal with energy recovery ahead of landfill. Section 4 of the Waste Management Amendment Act 2001 provides that the development Plan in force in an area shall be deemed to include the objectives contained in the Waste Management Plan made by the local authority.

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Therefore this development Plan is deemed to contain the policies and objectives of the Waste Management Plan (WMP).

The National Strategy on Biodegradable Waste sets out measures to progressively divert biodegradable municipal waste from landfill in accordance with EU targets set out in EU Directive 1999/31/EC on the landfill of waste. County Laois must reduce its dependence on the landfill of municipal waste in favour of more environmentally sound alternatives.

Laois County Council is also obliged to prepare a Litter Management Plan for its area. This Plan sets out objectives to prevent and control litter as well as measures to encourage public awareness of the problem.

All prospective developments in the County will be expected to take account of the provisions of the Replacement Regional Waste Management Plan and adhere to those elements of it that relate to waste prevention and minimisation, waste recycling facilities, and the capacity for source segregation.

12.10.1 Waste Prevention Waste Prevention is preferred to any other waste management option. By not generating waste, we can eliminate the need to handle, transport, treat, dispose of waste and avoid having to pay for these services. The Council aims to encourage waste prevention and minimization through awareness-raising initiatives.

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Figure 6 Waste Hierarchy

Waste Management It is the Policy of the Council to ENV 12 / P20 Implement the provisions of the Waste Management Hierarchy and the Regional Waste Management Plan and any future amendments thereof; ENV 12 / P21 Promote education and awareness on all issues associated with waste management, both at industry and community level. This will include the promotion of waste prevention by encouraging the minimisation, re-use, recycling and recovery of waste within the County; ENV 12 / P22 Ensure the provision of quality cost effective (Best Available Technology)waste infrastructure and services, which reflect and meet the needs of the community and to ensure that the ͚ƉŽůůƵƚĞƌƉĂǇƐ͛ƉƌŝŶĐŝƉůĞŝƐĂĚŚĞƌĞĚƚŽŝŶĂůůǁĂƐƚĞŵĂŶĂŐĞŵĞŶƚĂĐƚŝǀŝƚŝĞƐ͖ ENV 12 / P23 Ensure that all waste disposed of by private companies shall be undertaken in compliance with the requirement of the EPA and Waste Management Legislation; ENV 12 / P24 Encourage and facilitate the development of necessary waste treatment facilities subject to proper Planning and environmental standards being met; ENV 12 / P25 Require the provision of bring banks, bottle banks or other appropriate recycling facilities as part of the overall development in the case of new or extended shopping centre developments and commercial neighbourhood centres, educational, sports, and recreational facilities. ENV 12 / P26 Consider proposals for waste disposal infrastructure outside zoned lands, where extensive lands are required, for example for a landfill use ENV 12 / P27 Direct Waste disposal or recycling uses that do not have a substantial land take, such as industrial anaerobic digester units, recycling sorting centres, rendering Plants to

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appropriately zoned lands or sites adjacent to existing waste disposal facilities located outside zoned lands, where a functional relationship exists between the existing waste disposal site and the proposed waste disposal or recycling use.

12.11 CONTROL OF MAJOR ACCIDENT HAZARDS DIRECTIVE (SEVESO II DIRECTIVE)

Unlike the earlier Seveso I Directive (82/501/EEC), Seveso II includes provisions relating to land use Planning. Article 12 of the Directive requires member states to ensure that the objectives of preventing major accidents and limiting the consequences of such accidents are taken into account in land use policies and other relevant policies. These objectives must be pursued through controls on the following: The siting of new establishments; Modifications of existing establishments;

It is the policy of the Council to ENV 12 / P28 Ensure that any COMAH sites are managed in accordance with the provisions of the Seveso II Directive.

12.12 EXTRACTIVE INDUSTRY

Most planning applicatons of this nature will be accompanied by Environmental Impact Statements which will set out in detail the issues to be considered in the assessment of the planning application. In addition, the Council, as required under Section 28 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 as amended, will have ƌĞŐĂƌĚƚŽŽ,>'͞EĂƚŝŽŶĂů'ƵŝĚĞůŝŶĞƐŽŶYƵĂƌƌŝĞƐĂŶĚŶĐŝůůĂƌǇĐƚŝǀŝƚŝĞƐĨŽƌWůĂŶŶŝŶŐƵƚŚŽƌŝƚŝĞƐϮϬϬϰ͘͟

Most planning applications of this nature will be accompanied by Environmental Impact Statements which will set out in detail the issues to be considered in the assessment of the planning application. In addition, the Council, as required under Section 28 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 as amended, will have ƌĞŐĂƌĚƚŽŽ,>'͞EĂƚŝŽŶĂů'ƵŝĚĞůŝŶĞƐŽŶYƵĂƌƌŝĞƐĂŶĚŶĐŝůůĂƌǇĐƚŝǀŝƚŝĞƐĨŽƌWůĂŶŶŝŶŐƵƚŚŽƌŝƚŝĞƐϮϬϬϰ͘͟

Most planning applications of this nature will be accompanied by Environmental Impact Statements which will include details relating to reinstatement and afteruse of pits. The use of Construction and Demolition (C&D) waste can be examined in that context. In addition, Laois County Council is governed by the Midlands Waste Management Plan 2005-2010.

It is acknowledged that having regard to such factors as the extensive network of roads and the nature of housing development [majority of population still resides in rural areas] in the county, there is likely to be a continuing demand for aggregates products, notwithstanding the current recession.

It is the policy of the Council:

ENV 12 / P29 to investigate the feasibility of mapping the full extent of aggregate resources of the County during the lifetime of the County Development Plan 2011-2017.

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13 NATURAL HERITAGE

CORE AIM To reinforce the distinctive character of County Laois through ensuring that sites and species of ecological importance are identified, conserved and managed appropriately and by promoting awareness and enjoyment of the natural heritage of the County.

13.1 INTRODUCTION

A rich diversity of flora, fauna and wildlife habitats make up the biodiversity of County Laois. Some sites have been designated by the National Parks and Wildlife Service of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government as Natural Heritage Areas (NHAs) and Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) as a result of their international and national wildlife importance. Laois County Council also recognizes the integral value of the locally important sites and the wildlife and biodiversity of the wider countryside and acknowledges the importance of implementing policies to protect our natural heritage.

County Laois has a rich and varied landscape with historic features dating back to prehistory and many well- known tourist attractions that are related to its heritage. The County retains a strong connection with traditional agriculture and the landscape supports a wide range of ecological habitats despite recent rapid growth of its settlements. It is the interaction of these elements that will influence landscape character for future generations.

The landscapes in County Laois are constantly evolving in response to natural forces and human activity. There have been several phases of history which have left their marks on the landscape and which are evident today such as the following elements which include passage tombs and pre Christian earthworks, early Christian ecclesiastical buildings, Norman castles and walled settlements, 17th ʹ 18th Century demesnes and field patterns and 18th ʹ 19th Century buildings and structures.

The following are the main objectives pertaining to natural heritage:

NH 13 / O01 To maintain, protect and where possible enhance the conservation value of existing European and national designated sites (NHA, SAC and SPA) in the county and any additional sites that may be proposed for designation during the period of this Plan. NH 13 / O02 Promote and protect the Slieve Blooms as a significant natural heritage asset in terms of landscape, ecology and geology; NH 13 / O03 Undertake a feasibility study to report, within one year of the adoption of this Plan, on areas which are considered to be suitable for designation such as the Slieve Blooms and promote any proposals with the National Parks and Wildlife Service; NH 13 / O04 ŶĐŽƵƌĂŐĞ ƚŚĞ ĐŽŶƐĞƌǀĂƚŝŽŶ͕ ƵŶĚĞƌƐƚĂŶĚŝŶŐ ŽĨ͕ ĂĐĐĞƐƐ ƚŽ ĂŶĚ ƉƌŽŵŽƚŝŽŶ ŽĨ ŽƵŶƚǇ >ĂŽŝƐ͛ natural heritage; NH 13 / O05 Use the Landscape Character Assessment (LCA) to protect parts of the Laois landscape that are of scenic importance and sensitive to change; NH 13 / O06 Ensure the protection of terrestrial, aquatic and soil biodiversity throughout the County and protect against invasive species; NH 13 / O07 Where the opportunity arises, the Council will seek to create a green network of spaces and corridors in order to provide for richer ecological networks and also amenity areas by linking

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up existing fragmented green spaces and focusing on linear features such as hedgerows, canal and river banks, railway embankments and walking paths and promote a feasibility study on opportunities for incorporation of green infrastructure; NH 13 / O08 Review the current County Heritage Plan 2007- 2011 and implement the key objectives and associated actions identified in the county Heritage Plan and any revision thereof; NH 13 / O09 Comply with the objectives of the Draft National Biodiversity Plan 2010-2015 as appropriate to County Laois.

13.2 BIODIVERSITY The Council has sought to integrate the protection and enhancement of biodiversity into the wider Planning policy framework in advance of the preparation of a local biodiversity Plan.

Habitat surveys and other scientific information indicate that ecologically rich areas in Laois include hedgerows, drainage ditches, eskers, wetlands, relic woodland and semi-natural woodland. The Council notes that protected species occur outside designated areas. The Council will seek by way of specific policies to enhance biodiversity and create enriched ecological networks.

Threats to biodiversity include the removal of or interference with ecological networks and stepping stones such as hedgerows, eskers, riparian areas, railway embankments, wetland areas; the spread of invasive species; the spread of urbanised areas that do not incorporate landscaping elements that foster biodiversity; deterioration in water quality.

Article 10 of the Habitats Directive outlines the need to protect linear features and stepping stones for biodiversity in land use Plans.

The protection of hedgerows is important to prevent the suburbanisation of rural landscapes, to protect the historic character of rural landscapes and to protect the ecological richness of hedgerows and their function aƐ ĂŶ ĞĐŽůŽŐŝĐĂů ŚŝŐŚǁĂǇ ďĞƚǁĞĞŶ ƌŝĐŚ ĞĐŽůŽŐŝĐĂů ĂƌĞĂƐ͕ ĂƐ ŝŶĚŝĐĂƚĞĚ ďǇ ƚŚĞ ŽƵŶĐŝů͛Ɛ ŚĂďŝƚĂƚ surveys.

13.3 GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE

Green infrastructure refers to the network of linked high quality green spaces and other environmental features within both urban and rural settings. This strategically planned and delivered network should be designed and managed as a multifunctional resource capable of delivering a wide range of environmental and quality of life benefits for local communities. In developing green infrastructure, opportunities should be taken to develop and enhance networks for cycling, walking and other non-motorised transport. Green infrastructure includes parks, open spaces, playing fields, woodlands, allotments and private gardens.

Habitats surveys have been carried out for all the towns and villages. Priority habitats have been identified in the Settlement strategy town and village plans and this information will provide guidance in relation to the provision of green infrastructure on a town by town, village by village basis.

13.4 Invasive Species

Many species of flora and fauna have been introduced to Ireland and pose deleterious impacts on native vegetation, wildlife and ecosystems. Of particular relevance in Laois are the Zebra Mussel and Japanese Knotweed.

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Biodiversity It is the policy of the Council to

NH 13 / P01 Ensure that the conservation of biodiversity in protected areas and in the wider countryside is integrated into all aspects of the operation of the Council NH13 / P02 Ensure that the following guidance is taken into account when assessing planning applications for extractive industry - ͞EŽƚŝĐĞ EĂƚƵƌĞ ŝŽĚŝǀĞƌƐŝƚǇ 'ƵŝĚĂŶĐĞ ĨŽƌ ǆƚƌĂĐƚŝǀĞ ĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚƐ͟; NH 13 / P03 Ensure that landscaping Plans incorporate features or measures to foster biodiversity and enrich ecological networks, and protect against invasive species; NH 13 / P04 WƌĞƐĞƌǀĞ ƚŚĞ ŽƵŶƚǇ͛ƐĞǆƚĞŶƐŝǀĞ ŶĞƚǁŽƌŬŽĨ ŚĞĚŐĞƌŽǁƐ ĂŶĚ ĞƐŬĞƌƐ ǁŚŝĐŚ ĂƌĞ ŽĨ ůĂŶĚƐĐĂƉĞ and ecological importance; NH 13 / P05 Preserve intact bogs and fens from drainage works for their biodiversity value as well as their functioning as water sinks and for carbon sequestration; NH 13 / P06 /ŵƉůĞŵĞŶƚƚŚĞ,ĂďŝƚĂƚƐ͛ŝƌĞĐƚŝǀĞƌĞƋƵŝƌĞŵĞŶƚƚŽƉƌĞƐĞƌǀĞŽƚŚĞƌƚǇƉĞƐŽĨĞĐŽůŽŐŝĐĂůůŝŶŬĂŐĞƐ or stepping stones, such as railway embankments, road verges and ditches, riparian lands etc; NH 13 / P07 Work with other agencies to address the issue of invasive species within water courses in the County NH 13 / P08 Implement the Habitats Directive with respect to Natura 2000 sites having regard to their conservation objectives and ensure that all development with a potential to impact on a Natura 2000 Site must legally be the subject of an Appropriate Assessment process under Article 6(3) of the Habitats Directive

13.2.2 Designated Sites

The National Parks and Wildlife Service of the Department of Environment, Heritage & Local Government is responsible for designating areas of special biodiversity interest in the context of national and European legislation. These areas include Special Areas of Conservation (SACs), Special Protection Areas (SPAs), Natural Heritage Areas (NHAs) and Statutory Nature Reserves.

The County Contains x 8 Special Areas of Conservation (See Map 1.13.1) x 1 Special Protection Areas (See Map 1.13.2.) x 2 Natural Heritage Areas and 28 proposed Natural Heritage Areas(See Map 1.13.3) x 3 Statutory Nature Reserves (See Map 1.13.5)

13.2.3 Special Areas of Conservation (SACs)

Special Areas of Conservation are prime wildlife areas, considered to be important on a European as well as Irish level. The legal basis on which SACs are selected and designated is the EU Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC), transposed into Irish law in the European Union (Natural Habitats) Regulations, 1997. The Directive lists certain habitats and species that must be protected within SACs. Irish habitats include raised

184 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017 bogs, blanket bogs, turloughs, sand dunes, machair, heaths, lakes, rivers, woodlands, estuaries and sea inlets. The species which must be afforded protection under the Habitats Directive include inter alia all our bat species, Salmon, Pearl Mussel, Common Frog, Pine Marten, Mountain Hare and Otter.

Table 24 Special Areas of Conservation in County Laois

Site Name Site Code River Barrow And River Nore 002162 Clonaslee Eskers and Derry Bog 000859 Lisbigney Bog 000869 Mountmellick 002141 Slieve Bloom Mountains 000412 Coolrain Bog 002332 Knockacoller Bog 002333 Ballyprior Grassland 002256

13.2.4 Special Protection Areas (SPAs)

These are sites designated under the EU Birds Directive 79/409/EEC as a result of their importance for birds. There is just one SPA to date in Laois, the Slieve Bloom Mountains (Site Code 4160), designated for Hen Harrier, but also important for Merlin, Peregrine and Red Grouse. The boundaries of the Slieve Blooms SPA are considerably wider than the boundaries of the corresponding SAC.

͞EĂƚƵƌĂ ϮϬϬϬ ƐŝƚĞƐ͟ ŝƐƚŚĞ ĐŽůůĞĐƚŝǀĞ ŶĂŵĞ ŐŝǀĞŶ ƚŽ^ƉĞĐŝĂůƌĞĂƐ ŽĨ ŽŶƐĞƌǀĂƚŝŽŶ ;^ƐͿ͕ ĂŶĚ ĐĂŶĚŝĚĂƚĞ SACs, Special Areas of Protection (SPA) or proposed Special Areas of Protection. These sites contain habitats or species of special European importance.

13.2.5 Appropriate Assessment

Appropriate Assessment is a requirement of Article 6(3) and 6(4) of Council Directive 92/43 /EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild flora and fauna, also known as the Habitats Directive. The requirement for an appropriate assessment is not defined by the nature of the scale of the proposed development but solely by its potential to negatively impact on a Natura 2000 site. It is the responsibility of the proponent of a plan or project to carry out an AA at each stage of the proposed development in accordance with Article 6. AA is not a prohibition on new development or activities but involves a case by case examination of the implications for Natura 2000 sites and its conservation objectives in a recorded step wise procedure.

The Habitats Directive promotes a hierarchy of avoidance / protection, mitigation and compensatory measures. The following steps will be adopted in the development of all individual plans and projects where there is potential for impacts on a Natura 2000 site and a written statement will be submitted to the competent authority in accordance with the national guidance.

13.2.6 Natural Heritage Area (NHAs)

To date, only a selection of raised and blanket bog NHAs have been given formal legal protection. In Laois, these sites are:

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x 000652 - Monaincha Bog / Ballaghmore Bog NHA x 002357 - Clonreher Bog NHA

The remaining 28 proposed NHA (pNHA) sites in Laois are given limited legal protection through; inter alia, recognition in the County Development Plan (See Table 25).

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Table 25 Proposed Natural Heritage Areas (pNHAs) in Co Laois Site Name Site Main habitat or species Code Annaghmore Lough 000413 Calcareous fen with willow and birch scrub Fen Ballylynan 000857 Grassland, wet meadows Barrow Valley At 000858 River, canal, grassland, marsh Tankardstown Bridge Clonaslee Eskers And 000859 Esker, raised bog Derry Bog Clopook Wood 000860 Ash/hazel woodland, limestone hill Coolacurragh Wood 000862 Birch/alder woodland, fen peat Coolrain Bog 000415 Midland raised bog (with Knockacoller Bog, these two bogs are the most southerly intact examples of true Midland Raised Bogs in the country) Cuffsborough 000418 Grassland used by Greenland White-fronted geese The Curragh And Goul 000420 Wet meadow, river, winter feeding site for Greenland White-fronted River Marsh Geese Delour River Nr Lacca 000864 Oak/birch woodland, river, wet grassland Manor Derries Wood 000416 Disturbed raised bog, disused gravel pit, conifer Plantation, lake, reedbed, important insect populations Dunamaise Woods 001494 Limestone hills, oak/ash woodland Emo Court 000865 Semi-natural mixed (oak/ash with beech) woodland, lake, parkland, amenity grassland Forest House Wood 000874 12.11.1 Grand Canal 002104 Canal, wetland, grassland Granstown Wood and 000417 State-owned nature reserve. Lake in transition through fen to Lough alder/willow. Important invertebrate fauna Kilteale Hill 000867 Limestone hill, hazel/ash woodland Knockacoller Bog 000419 Midland raised bog, Birch and alder woodland. One of the few intact bogs south of the Slieve Blooms Lisbigney Bog 000869 Raised bog Mannin Wetland 00868 Species-rich fen Ridge Of Portlaoise 000876 Esker ridge, ash/hazel woodland, species-rich grassland, disused gravel pits River Barrow And 002162 River, wetland, woodland River Nore River Nore/Abbeyleix 002076 River, site for Freshwater Pearl Mussel (international importance), Woods Complex Twaite Shad (Vulnerable), wet grassland, mixed deciduous woodland of great antiquity and species diversity, with specimen oak Rock of Dunamaise 000878 12.11.2 Shanahoe Marsh 001923 12.11.3 Slieve Bloom 000412 Old Red Sandstone mountains, mountain blanket bog, Peregrine Mountains Falcon, Hen harrier, red grouse Stradbally Hill 001800 12.11.4 Timahoe Esker 000421 Esker ridge, Hazel/Ash woodland

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13.2.7 Statutory Nature Reserves

A Statutory Nature Reserve is an area of importance to wildlife, which is protected under Ministerial order. Most are owned by the State. However, some are owned by organisations or private landowners. All three Statutory Nature Reserves in Laois are State-owned.

Grantstown Wood and Grantstown Lough Nature Reserve and Coolacurragh Wood These reserves are situated about 8km north-west of Durrow, County Laois and provide rare examples of wet woodland on base-rich soils, while Granstown Lough is a classic example of a lake which has gradually infilled through fen to alder carr. Animals and Plants of interest include Kingfishers, Cormorants and Otter, The wood is composed of native tree and shrub species, especially Oak, Ash, and Birch, along with Hawthorn, Guelder Rose, and Spindle.

Slieve Bloom Mountains Nature Reserve This high mountain blanket bog, unlike many other bogs in Ireland, has been spared severe burning and grazing. It formed about six thousand years ago when the climate became wetter and bog began to blanket the mountain slopes. Animals and Plants of interest include Ling Heather, Deer Grass and Sphagnum Moss. The mountains are important for populations of Red Grouse and Hen Harrier.

Timahoe Esker Nature Reserve This is one of the few esker ridges left in the country which still carry native woodland. It is Planned to expand the native woodland using appropriate management techniques.

DESIGNATED AREAS It is the policy of the Council to NH 13 / P09 Restrict developments that would be likely, either individually or in combination with other developments, Plans or projects to give rise to significant adverse effects on Natura 2000 sites, and any additional sites that may be proposed for designation during the period of this WůĂŶ͕ŚĂǀŝŶŐƌĞŐĂƌĚƚŽƚŚĞƐŝƚĞƐ͛ĐŽŶƐĞƌǀĂƚŝŽŶŽďũĞĐƚŝǀĞƐ͖ NH 13 / P10 Protect areas of national nature conservation importance (NHA) from developments that would adversely affect the special interest; NH 13 / P11 Recognise and protect the significant geological value of sites in County Laois and safeguard these sites, in consultation with the Geological Survey of Ireland and in accordance with the National Heritage Plan and ͞'ĞŽůŽŐŝĐĂů,ĞƌŝƚĂŐĞ'ƵŝĚĞůŝŶĞƐĨŽƌƚŚĞǆƚƌĂĐƚŝǀĞ/ŶĚƵƐƚƌǇ͟; NH 13 / P12 Maximise the amenity and tourist potential of key natural heritage assets and amenity areas in a sustainable manner .

13.2.8 Non Designated Sites

The Planning authority acknowledges that it is important to maintain and enhance the quality of the natural environment in its entirety as wildlife heritage is not confined to designated areas. Laois County Council will seek to conserve and protect features of natural interest such as woodlands, hedgerows, wetlands and landscapes in general.

Habitat mapping has been carried out for a number of settlements around the county. Habitat maps where available are included in each Settlement Plan, and policies in relation to management of these habitats are

188 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017 included in the relevant Settlement Plans (Volume 2: Settlement Strategy) and in the Design and Development Control Standards in Chapter 16.

NON DESIGNATED AREAS It is the policy of the Council to NH 13 / P13 Maintain and enhance the quality of the natural environment in its entirety as wildlife heritage is not confined to designated areas

13.3 WOODLANDS AND TREES

2% of the country is covered by what is termed native or semi-natural woodland, which is woodland dominated by native tree species, and much of this is highly fragmented and modified. A survey of Native woodland areas in Ireland was carried out in 2003-2006. This was commissioned by the National Parks and Wildlife Service. The survey provided a systematic evaluation of the conservation value of Irish woodland. A number of the sites in County Laois will be considered for Tree Preservation Order (TPO) during the Plan period 2011-2017. Some are also designated within Nature Reserves, Special Areas of Conservation or Natural Heritage Areas.

Trees and Woodlands It is the policy of the Council to NH 13 / P14 Carry out a study of Trees that require preservation and designate accordingly; NH 13 / P15 Protect individual trees, groups of trees and woodland in the interests of landscape conservation (including townscapes) and nature conservation as part of the Planning application process; NH 13 / P16 Promote the preservation, enhancement and creation of native and semi natural woodlands; NH 13 / P17 Encourage and use native species of trees within landscaping in private and public developments; NH 13 / P18 Prepare Tree Preservation Orders for the tree stands other individual trees, groups of trees or woodland areas where expedient and in the interests of amenity and the environment.

13.4 HEDGEROWS

Laois County Council recognises the importance of hedgerows in terms of both ecological and visual amenity throughout Laois. There will be a presumption against the removal of hedgerows during developments and where removal is necessary, the Planting of an equivalent length of hedgerow will be required as a condition of planning permission. Hedgerows It is the policy of the Council to NH 13 / P19 Protect existing hedgerows in order to preserve the rural character of the countryside and promote biodiversity; NH 13 / P20 Encourage the use of native species when Planting new hedgerows; NH 13 / P21 Ensure cutting of hedges within the control of the Council only takes place at permitted times unless absolutely necessary in the interests of safety

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13.5 WATERWAYS AND WETLANDS

Wetlands are an important resource due to their biodiversity value and their importance in terms of flood control, enhancement of water quality and the importance placed on these areas by the Water Framework Directive. The Slieve Bloom Mountains are designated as a Ramsar Site14. In addition there are a number of wetland areas which should continue to be protected.

Wetland habitats such as rivers are an important source of biodiversity and contain species such as otters (Lutra lutra), Salmon (Salmo salar), Kingfishers (Alcedo atthis), Freshwater crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes ) and Lamprey species, all protected under the Wildlife Acts of 1976 and 2000 and/or listed on the annexes of the EC Habitats Directive and Birds Directive.

Laois is particularly important for the Nore Pearl Mussel ͞DĂƌŐĂƌŝƚŝĨĞƌĂĚƵƌƌŽǀĞŶƐŝƐ͟ and special mention is made of this species in the Development Plan (see Section 0), SEA and AA. The Freshwater Pearl Mussel Nore Sub-Basin Management Plan, March 2009 has been taken into account.

The Water Framework Directive provides for water management on the basis of River Basin Districts (RBDs). It addresses inland surface waters, estuarine and coastal waters and groundwater. Monitoring of the River Basin District will provide information on biodiversity and its targets will form part of the monitoring of the Development Plan.

13.6 RIPARIAN BUFFER ZONES

Riparian Buffer Zones are used to protect a particular watercourse from the impact of human activity or development in an area. The buffer zone if sufficiently large and managed will: x Filter out pollutants and sediments from overland surface run off x Provide a refuge for animals with close affinity to rivers x Create habitat necessary for aquatic life x Provide amenity and recreation to local people and visitors to the area x Enhance flood alleviation

Where developments are proposed adjacent to waterways, the Planning authority will require a setback distance of a minimum of 15 metres from the waterways edge. This requirement may be subject to change depending on the nature and design of the development. Riparian corridors are defined as those areas that are physically or visually linked to the waterway and are multi-functional in nature.

14 Ramsar site is a site designated internationally for the conservation of wetlands, particularly those of importance to waterfowl under The Convention on Wetlands of International Importance especially as Waterfowl Habitat, the so-called Ramsar Convention.

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Waterways and Wetlands It is the policy of the Council to NH 13 / P22 Protect riparian corridors by reserving land along their banks for ecological corridors and maintain them free from inappropriate development; NH 13 / P23 Require that development along rivers set aside lands for pedestrian routes and cycleways that could link to the broader area and established settlements in the area NH 13/ P24 Ensure that no development including clearance and storage of materials takes place within a minimum distance of 10-15m from each bank of any river, stream or watercourse.

13.7 NORE FRESHWATER PEARL MUSSEL

The Nore Freshwater Pearl Mussel Species is protected under the Freshwater Pearl Mussel Nore Sub-Basin Management Plan (2009). The critically endangered status of Margaritifera durrovensis of the Nore requires the careful management of land uses and activities in the vicinity of the river Nore. Activities requiring Planning permission that may give rise to sedimentation, nutrient enrichment or other adverse environmental effects will be assessed carefully by the Council. Applications will not be accepted unless proposals will have no significant effects on this protected species. Applications may be subject to an Appropriate Assessment pursuant to the Habitats Directive.

Nore Freshwater Pearl Mussel It is the policy of the Council to NH 13 / P25 Protect the Nore Pearl Mussel through the measures set out in the Freshwater Pearl Mussel Nore Sub-Basin Management Plan (2009).

13.8 PEATLANDS

Laois contains a range of high quality peatland habitats. Although many have been the subject of drainage and extraction, the County still contains a number of examples of both raised and blanket bog habitats in addition to the biodiversity value. The peatlands in County Laois will continue to play an important role in Energy, Horticulture and Amenity projects.

13.8.1 Abbeyleix (Killamuck) Bog

Abbeyleix Bog, known locally as Killamuck Bog, is located just to the southern limits of Abbeyleix Heritage town. The bog was partially drained in preparation for moss peat production in the 1980s, but following a long campaign, it was selected by Bord na Móna as an ideal site for restoration of an active Raised Bog habitat and ecosystem. Bord na Móna began working with the local community who have a keen interest in the site. The restoration project comprises a partnership between Bord na Móna, National Parks and Wildlife Service, the Irish Peatland Conservation Council, Laois County Council with the main drivers being the enthusiastic members of the local community. The local community has now undertaken to act as guardians of the bog and a lease agreement has been signed with Bord na Mona to pass over responsibility for management to the local community.

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Peatlands It is the policy of the Council to NH 13 / P26 Support the identification of projects that have the potential to achieve commercial value such as industrial developments, wind energy, tourism developments etc. while at the same time promoting high environmental standards and supporting Biodiversity objectives; NH 13 / P27 Support the restoration of peatlands on suitable sites

13.9 LANDSCAPE

The Council has prepared a Landscape Character Assessment to identify specific areas that are characterised by sensitive landscapes. (See Map 1.13.6) Sensitive areas include upland areas, visually open and expansive areas and areas in the vicinity of natural heritage or built heritage assets or scenic views. The Assessment will help developers select less sensitive sites for development.

Landscape Character Types are distinct types of landscape that are relatively homogenous in character. They are generic in nature in that they may occur in different localities throughout any defined area. Nonetheless, where they do occur, they commonly share similar combinations of geology, topography, land cover and historical landuse. For example, blanket bog uplands are distinct landscape character types and are recognisable as such whether they occur in County Laois or other counties.

County Laois has been divided into 7 Landscape Character Types (LCT): x Hills and Upland Areas x Lowland Agricultural Areas x River Corridors and Lakes x Mountain Areas x Peatland Areas x Urban Fringe Areas x Rolling Hill Areas

13.9.1 LCT 1: HILLS AND UPLAND AREAS

Although lacking in terms of dramatic peaks, hills and uplands are a prominent feature of the County, particularly in the north west and south-east. From the tops of these hills panoramic views of the lowland landscapes of Laois and adjacent counties are gained. The hills also act as orientating features. The Seven Hills, Cullenagh, Cullahill, Fossy Mountains and the upland areas around Swan, Luggacurren and Wolfhill are prominent by virtue of landmarks at their summits as well as their topography: A church in Wolfhill acts as a prominent local landmark.

The hills and uplands form important historic features with an abundance of archaeological features and contain evidence of human settlement extending back 9,000 years.

There is extensive mono-type afforestation and marginal agriculture in these areas. Field systems and the enclosures associated with them are generally absent in this landscape. New dwellings are comparatively few with much of the older stock abandoned and derelict.

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These hills and uplands represent some potential in terms of tourism development. However, at present they are somewhat isolated as separate entities. Linking the most important sites by way-marked trails would be a valuable addition allowing further appreciation of the landscape in a sensitive manner.

The Wind Energy Strategy has identified these upland areas for consideration in terms of future wind energy development. Any such development must be carefully sited to minimise negative impacts.

LANDSCAPE LCT1 It is the policy of the Council to NH 13 / P28 Preserve and enhance the rich heritage assets of these LCTs which provide visible evidence of ĂůůĨŽƵƌŬĞǇƉŚĂƐĞƐŽĨƚŚĞŽƵŶƚǇ͛ƐŚŝƐƚŽƌǇ͖ NH 13 / P29 Protect the positive contribution that views across adjacent lowland areas and landmarks within the landscape make to the overall landscape character; NH 13 / P30 Respect the remote character and existing low-density development in these LCTs; NH 13 / P31 Implement improvements to the visitor attractions of these areas; NH 13 / P32 Define popular walking routes such as Cullahill Mountain and create new routes to additional areas of interest; NH 13 / P33 Continue to encourage the improved management of field boundaries such as hedgerows and stone walls and hunting copses/ wooded copses; NH 13 / P34 Maximise the potential amenity value of water bodies within this LCT; NH 13 / P35 Facilitate the development of sustainable rural industries that encourage interaction between ƵƌďĂŶĂŶĚƌƵƌĂůůĂŶĚƐĐĂƉĞƐĂŶĚĚǁĞůůĞƌƐ͕Ğ͘Ő͘ĨĂƌŵĞƌ͛ƐŵĂƌŬĞƚƐ. NH 13 / P36 Actively propose the designation of the Slieve Blooms as a Special Amenity Area and seek an Order to that effect.

13.9.2 LCT 2: LOWLAND AGRICULTURAL AREAS

The Lowland LCT covers the largest proportion of County Laois. In terms of landuse, it is comprised primarily of pastoral and tillage agriculture.

It is generally a flat open landscape (around Ballylynan, Barrowhouse and the environs of Graiguecullen especially) with long range views towards the upland areas. Field patterns tend to be of large scale and are generally bounded by deciduous hedgerows containing mature trees. Farm sizes are larger than average. Throughout the County there is an abundance of 18th and 19th century demesnes with extensive areas of mixed woodland and parkland bounded by original stonewalls, creating an attractive landscape setting for the numerous estate houses.

The Lowland LCT has been developed more extensively than other LCTs, particularly in the north and east where there is development pressure from the large towns as well as the Dublin metropolitan area. This has resulted in significant changes to the landscape character and it is crucial that future development of this LCT is carried out sensitively and with particular reference to the rural nature of the landscape.

The significant growth of towns and villages over the past decade has led to a myriad of architectural styles that are not in keeping with the historic built vernacular. It is equally important that future development relates to the existing structure of towns and villages and reflects characteristic building scales and materials.

193 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

Much of the lowlands have an enclosed character with well-treed road corridors, dense hedgerows, parkland and areas of woodland. Views of landmarks within the landscape and of the surrounding upland areas are a characteristic of this area and must be retained because the interaction between the lowlands and hills/uplands is an important feature of this LCT.

LANDSCAPE: LCT2 It is the policy of the Council to NH 13 / P37 Promote good agricultural practices to create a sustainable rural economy; NH 13 / P38 Provide incentives for smaller rural/family farms to manage their land to avoid loss of hedgerows and field patterns; NH 13 / P39 Maintain and enhance the 18th and 19th century estate landscapes and associated parkland & woodland to develop them as a tourism resource; NH 13 / P40 Diversify the urban fringe by developing mixed-use amenity areas, which will create a landscape buffer creating a transition between urban and rural areas; NH 13 / P41 Define the urban fringe with Planting of native species and mixed woodland to tie into existing rural landscape; NH 13 / P42 Reflect the 18th and 19th century field patterns in the scale of new development; NH 13 / P43 Restoration of historic boundaries, walls to original standard with coursing and materials to match existing; NH 13 / P44 Ensure that the design of all single one-off houses is fully compliant with Rural House Design Guidelines.

13.9.3 LCT 3: RIVER CORRIDORS AND LAKES

A number of key river corridors traverse County Laois. This LCT contains a wealth of historic features providing longstanding evidence of human influence on the landscape including Norman fortifications, castles, demesnes and industrial artefacts such as mills, canals and bridges.

The River Nore is the largest and most prominent of the river corridors. The river enters the County north of Borris-in Ossory and runs generally in a southeast trajectory through Castletown, west of Abbeyleix, east of Durrow and onto Ballyragget, County Kilkenny. It merges with a number of other rivers along the way including Whitehorse [near Mountrath] and Erkina, Gully and Owenbeg [near Durrow]. The river is enclosed and well wooded along much of its length, containing areas of mixed deciduous woodland of great antiquity and species diversity including specimen oak in Abbeyleix Demesne.

Excellent views of the river are afforded at a number of locations including Castletown, Shanahoe and near Attanagh where the river can be seen cutting through large flat-bottomed valleys.

The River Nore has a number of key designations including extensive SAC and more partial NHA coverage. It is an internationally renowned site for the freshwater pearl mussel.

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Figure 7 Grand Canal at Vicarstown

The River Barrow is an extensive river corridor in the north and east of the County where it forms a significant portion of the County boundary with Kildare. It flows eastwards through Portarlington onto Monasterevin, re-enters the County east of Ballybrittas and merges with the Stradbally River northeast of Stradbally. Within County Laois, the river has a European designation as an SAC; however only a minor portion near Maganey is designated as an NHA. Key vistas of the Barrow River are available in Portarlingon and Graiguecullen.

Though less extensive than the Rivers Nore and Barrow which carry both national and regional significance, the County contains a number of locally important river corridors such as the Erkina and Goul which flow between Cullahill and Durrow where they join with the River Nore, the Owenass on which Mountmellick is built and which joins with the River Barrow near Portarlington, the Fushoge between Arles and Carlow, the Delour in Coolrain and the Clodiagh in Clonaslee. With the exception of the River Owenass and to a lesser extent the River Clodiagh, the others have remained relatively undisturbed with largely undeveloped corridors, and a diverse range of habitats of high ecological value and significant areas of SAC and NHA designation.

A portion of the Grand Canal-Barrow Way enters into the northeastern part of County Laois and follows in a southerly route from Jamestown onto Vicarstown.

Primarily a product of 19th Century industry and commerce, it now acts as a major tourist resource providing a range of recreation opportunities including walking, cycling, water sports and fishing. The canal has NHA designation only, though it is located in very close proximity to the SAC designated River Barrow.

In addition to the rivers and canal, there are a number of lakes located throughout County Laois. The most significant of these including Ballyfin, Emo, Heywood, Grantstown, Masslough and Rathdaire are of man- made origin and were developed as ornamental features of formerly extensive 19th Century country house demesnes. The lakes which are now mainly used for recreational and amenity purposes provide aquatic habitats of high ecological value supporting a diverse range of animal and Plant life. A number of the lakes for example Grantstown are designated.

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LANDSCAPE: LCT3 It is the policy of the Council to NH 13 / P45 Recognise the importance of river corridors for scenic value, ecology, history, culture and for recreational purposes such as walking, cycling and various on-water activities. NH13/ P46 Maintain the Rivers throughout the County whilst ensuring that all works are carried out subject to appropriate environmental assessment in accordance with Article 6 of the Habitats Directive, in respect of any proposed development likely to have an impact on a designated natural heritage site, site proposed to be designated and any additional sites that may be designated during the period of this Plan. NH 13 / P47 Preserve riverside historic features and their landscape settings. NH 13 / P48 Conserve valuable habitats focused on and around river corridors and estuaries including European and national designations. NH 13 / P49 Maintain current agricultural practices that are responsible for the current strong landscape character in these LCTs. NH 13 / P50 Continue and encourage the improved management of field boundaries such as hedgerows and stonewalls and hunting copses/ wooded copses. NH 13 / P51 Reinforce the appearance of urban fringe areas adjacent to river corridors. NH 13 / P52 Develop trans-County tourism river linkages. NH 13 / P53 Recognise the potential constraints on development created by river flood plains and the value of these flood plains as increasingly rare habitats; NH 13 / P54 Reflect existing vegetation species and patterns in new Planting schemes in these LCTs; NH 13 / P55 Avoid unsustainable exploitation of watercourses, e.g. for abstraction and dilution of effluent, to the point that these water courses lose their ecological and amenity value; NH 13 / P56 Ensure that the design of all single one-off houses is fully compliant with Rural House Design Guidelines NH 13/ P57 In partnership with the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Waterways Ireland and other relevant stakeholders facilitate public access to waterway corridors. Maintain and enhance the natural character of rivers, lakes and canals by reserving land to facilitate walking, cycling and other non-noise generating recreational activities. NH 13 / P58 encourage new developments in urban/built up areas, to front onto rivers/canals and where possible develop new public walkways along rivers and canals.

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13.9.4 LCT 4: MOUNTAIN AREAS

The Slieve Bloom Mountains are the only mountain range in the County, covering an area of approximately 25,000 hectares with the remaining 12,000 hectares in County Offaly.

In addition to the multiple nature designations including extensive NHAs, SACs, and an SPA, tourist infrastructure in the form of picnic areas, walking trails, archaeological artefacts, the mountains offer a sense of remoteness and a range of spectacular views over the rest of County Laois and many adjoining counties. They also contain the largest unbroken area of upland blanket peat in Ireland.

As a result, the Slieve Blooms are particularly sensitive to many forms of development including large agricultural structures, sporadic housing, transmission lines, masts and wind farm developments. There is increasing concern about the drastic visual impact of widespread coniferous tree Plantations on the mountains as well.

If allowed at all, new housing should be very low impact in design, scale, mass and site selection. Robust, well screened sites should be chosen over unscreened elevated sites in order to restrict the visual impact to as small an area as possible. LANDSCAPE: LCT 4 It is the policy of the Council to NH 13 / P59 Preserve and enhance the rich heritage assets of this LCT; NH 13 / P60 Protect the positive contribution that views across adjacent lowland areas and landmarks within the landscape make to the overall landscape character; NH 13 / P61 Respect the remote character and existing low-density development in this LCT; NH 13 / P62 Implement improvements to the visitor attractions of these areas; NH 13 / P63 Develop, in conjunction with Offaly County Council and other relevant stakeholders, the tourism potential of this LCT; NH 13 / P64 Restrict new development [housing, agricultural] to below the 225 metres contour line; NH 13 / P65 Ensure that the design of all single one-off houses is fully compliant with Rural House Design Guidelines; NH 13 / P66 Introduce strict design guidance in respect of coniferous afforestation. In particular, no new or replacement coniferous afforestation to be allowed on summit of mountain, generally above the 250 metres contour line. This restriction will not apply in the [unlikely] event of broadleaf afforestation being proposed. NH 13 / P67 Continue to encourage the improved management of field boundaries such as hedgerows and stonewalls and hunting copses/ wooded copses. NH 13/ P68 Actively propose the designation of the Slieve Blooms as a Special Amenity Area and seek an Order to that effect.

13.9.5 LCT 5: PEATLAND AREAS

Topography is strikingly flat, geology is generally Carboniferous Limestone (type varies according to specific location) and land cover is raised bog much of which is now exhausted and being considered for alternatives uses including afforestation, amenity and wind energy.

The Lisheen site in County Tipperary [south of Rathdowney] clearly shows the potential of using disused cutaway bogland for developing wind energy. Also, there is a current Planning application with Laois

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County Council for a wind farm development on the extensive Bord Na Mona boglands between Rathdowney and Templetouhy, County Tipperary

This landscape type could be more accurately described as a specific habitat rather than a landscape type per se. In its original state, the undisturbed raised bog is peat based and supports a dense growth of birch scrub with gorse and heather as an understorey. Manual turf cutting in some areas will have left a somewhat untidy exposed peat surface, with scarce vegetation. Commercially harvested peatland areas are generally devoid of vegetation and present as an evenly exposed surface of peat. Such a man made landscape has a sterile and indeed industrial character. Pockets of rough grazing and scrubland also exist in this landscape character area.

In terms of location, some of the larger peatland areas are in close proximity to the larger urban settlements such as Cúl na Mona between Portlaoise and Mountrath. Others are in more remote, sparsely populated places, for example in the southwest of the County.

LANDSCAPE: LCT 5 It is the policy of the Council to NH 13 / P69 Recognise the importance of peatlands for ecology, history, culture and for alternative energy production; NH 13 / P70 Conserve valuable habitats including any European and national designations; NH 13 / P71 Introduce design guidance in respect of commercial forestry in order to integrate this landuse into the landscape; NH 13 / P72 Ensure that the design of all single one-off houses is fully compliant with Rural House Design Guidelines.

13.9.6 LCT 6: URBAN FRINGE AREAS

Elevations range from 20-100 metres and geology is generally Carboniferous Limestone. The majority of the centres of the County population are located in this landscape type including the largest urban settlements ŽĨWŽƌƚůĂŽŝƐĞ͕WŽƌƚĂƌůŝŶŐƚŽŶ͕DŽƵŶƚŵĞůůŝĐŬĂŶĚ'ƌĂŝŐƵĞĐƵůůĞŶ͘dŚŝƐůĂŶĚƐĐĂƉĞƚǇƉĞĂůƐŽŽǀĞƌůĂƉƐǁŝƚŚ>d͛ƐϮ [Lowland Agricultural Areas] 3 [River Corridors and Lakes] and 5 [Peatland Areas].

In terms of urban fringe, the defining characteristics include the radiating road routes on which development has taken place in a ribbon-type physical form. Individual sites are often suburban in design and their more formal and sculptured character does not usually integrate sympathetically with the overall landscape context.

Another characteristic of this LCT is the frequently disused or underused nature of former agricultural lands which are now zoned and set aside for future development or may be required for orbital route schemes.

LANDSCAPE: LCT 6 It is the policy of the Council to NH 13 / P73 Promote agricultural practices that are responsible for improving landscape character in this LCT; NH 13 / P74 Conserve valuable habitats including any European and national designations; NH 13 / P75 Diversify the urban fringe by developing mixed-use amenity areas, which will create a landscape buffer creating a transition between urban and rural areas;

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NH 13 / P76 Define the urban fringe with Planting of native species and mixed woodland to tie into existing rural landscape; NH 13 / P77 Applications for single one-off houses to be rigorously assessed and only permitted to immediate members of land owning families. There will be a presumption against speculative developments; NH 13 / P78 Promote design for all single one-off houses in line with the Rural House Design Guidelines

13.9.7 LCT 7: ROLLING HILL AREAS

Undulating with variable topography usually ranging from 70 metres to 90 metres. Geology comprises Silurian greywackes and slates with Old Red Sandstone at lower elevations.

Overall, this is a complex landscape incorporating several elements within a rolling landform. Landcover reflects this complexity with tillage and pasture agriculture, pockets of wetlands and raised bog, small coniferous Plantations and occasional deciduous copses. Varied enclosures include hedgerows with significant amounts of trees and some post and wire fencing. Settlement is quite frequent though commonly dispersed. Considerable evidence exists of new one-off house building in the vicinity of settlements.

LANDSCAPE: LCT 7 It is the policy of the Council to NH 13 / P79 Promote agricultural practices to create a sustainable rural economy; NH 13 / P80 Provide incentives for smaller rural/family farms to manage their land to avoid loss of hedgerows and field patterns; NH 13 / P81 Conserve valuable habitats including any European and national designations; NH 13 / P82 Diversify the urban fringe by developing mixed-use amenity areas, which will create a landscape buffer creating a transition between urban and rural areas; NH 13 / P83 Define the urban fringe with Planting of native species and mixed woodland to tie into existing rural landscape; NH 13 / P84 Promote the design of all single one-off houses in line with Rural House Design Guidelines; NH 13 / P85 Maintain and enhance the 18th and 19th century estate landscapes and associated parkland & woodland to develop them as a tourism resource; NH 13 / P86 Reflect the 18th and 19th century field patterns in the scale of new development; NH 13 / P87 Restoration of historic boundaries, walls to original standard with coursing and materials to match existing.

13.10 AMENITY VIEWS AND PROSPETS

The designation of views and prospects within County Laois provides a basis for the protection of many views and prospects of visually vulnerable features such as the Rock of Dunamaise. There may however be a number of individual views and prospects that also warrant protection. The protection of these views will be done on a case by case basis through the development management process when considering individual Planning applications.

The following table lists the views and prospects within the County (See also Map 1.13.4):

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Table 26: Amenity Views and Prospects in County Laois

Site Code Site Name

001 Killeshin Rossmore

002 The Windy Gap

003 Aharney

004 Slieve Bloom Mountains

005 Rock of Dunamaise

006 Grange , Mountmellick

007 The Heath

008 Raheen

009 Killamuck

010 Raheenleagh

011 Castletown

012 Clonaslee

013 Oughaval Woods, Stradbally

SCENIC VIEWS It is the policy of the Council to NH 13 / P88 Protect the views and prospects as indicated in the table above; NH 13 / P89 Discourage development which would materially affect these amenity views and prospects.

13.11 CROSS BORDER SITES

Like all Midland Counties, much of the natural heritage of Laois traverses the County boundaries, such as:- x The Slieve Blooms to the northwest of the County with County Offaly x River Nore with County Offaly, County Kilkenny x River Barrow with County Offaly , County Kildare, County Carlow x Grand Canal with County Kildare

The management and sustainable development of these natural resources depends on close cooperation between the relevant authorities. It is important therefore to ensure that developments which may benefit one County are not permitted to go ahead to the detriment of another. An example of this may be over abstraction of a Laois river by a local authority downstream to the detriment of the Laois portion of river.

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CROSS BORDER SITES It is the policy of the Council to NH 13 / P90 Cooperate with adjoining local authorities and other agencies in relation to cross border sites and waterways and ensure a coherent and strategic approach to their sustainable development and conservation

13.12 PUBLIC RIGHTS OF WAY As the population of the County grows and people become more aware of the importance of our built and natural heritage, the issue of access to the countryside and to heritage sites has become increasingly important. The formal process for designating rights of way is dealt with in Section 14 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 - 2010.

PUBLIC RIGHTS OF WAY It is the policy of the Council to NH 13 / P91 preserve public rights of way which give access to seashore, mountain, lakeshore, riverbank or other place of natural beauty or recreational utility. These public rights of way shall be identified both by marking them on at least one of the maps forming part of the development plan and by indicating their location on a list appended to the development plan within one year of the adoption of the Plan. NH 13 / P92 Protect and maintain existing public rights of way in County Laois; NH 13 / P93 Create new rights of ways or extend existing rights of way either by agreement with relevant landowners or by way of compulsory powers; NH 13 / P94 Ensure that existing rights of way are maintained, sign-posted and kept free from obstruction and take legal action if necessary, to prevent any attempt to close them off. NH 13 / P95 Create rights of way to provide linkages from built up areas to the countryside including upland areas, lake shores, river banks, heritage sites and National Monuments. Nh 13 / P96 Protect and promote Greenways and consider designating them as public rights of way and look favourably upon planning applications which include proposals to improve the condition and appearance of existing rights of way. NH 13 / P97 Development will not be permitted where a public right of way will be affected unless the level of amenity is minimised by:

(i) the footpath/bridleway being diverted by the minimal practical distance; and (ii) the route continuing to be segregated from vehicular traffic. (iii) Appropriate legal procedures have been undertaken to extinguish the existing right of way and to establish the new right of way to replace it.

NH 13 / P98 Existing Rights of Way and established walking routes shall be identified prior to any new planting, new infrastructural development and any new energy/telecommunications developments.

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13.13 GEOLOGY

Geology is an intrinsic component of the natural heritage of Laois. The Geological Survey of Ireland established the Irish Geological Heritage Programme in 1998. The programme is identifying and selecting the very best national sites for NHA designation, to represent the country's geology. It is also identifying many sites of national or local geological heritage importance, which are classed as County Geological Sites (CGS). These sites will be protected primarily through their inclusion in the County Development Plan.

GEOLOGY It is the policy of the Council to NH 13/ P99 To protect from inappropriate development the of County Geological Sites listed in Table 25.1 as notified by the Geological Survey of Ireland. NH 13/ P100 To protect geological NHAs as they become designated and notified to the Local Authority, during the lifetime of the Plan. NH 13/ P101 To Encourage, where practicable and when not in conflict with ownership rights, access to geological and geomorphological features.

Table 27 County Geological Sites Site Name Principal Townland(s)/district Summary description characteristics

Castlecomer Artesian Well Moyadd / Swan Artesian well Artesian Borehole - Swan

Arless Contact between Rathtillig / Arless, south of Athy Base of Namurian Clogrenan and Luggacurran Shale Formations

Arless Quarry Contact between Rathtillig / Arless, south of Athy Small disused quarry. Shows Clogrenan and basal Namurian contact Luggacurran Shale Formations

Ballyadams Quarry Ballyadams formation? Quarry Quarry

Carrolls Ballysteen Knockacoller / Castletown Typical representative of Quarry Limestone Ballysteen Limestone Formation. Formation Quarry contains some cherty limestone and dolomite.

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Site Name Principal Townland(s)/district Summary description characteristics

Clogh River braided river Swan Series of dry braided river channel channels are found along the tightly meandering Clogh River. Braided or transitional to braided river may be influenced by input of sediment from mining waste Clonaslee Esker ridges Garryhedder, Coolagh, A complex series of ridges that Eskers Castlecuffe, Larragan, Ballykineen bends around Slieve Bloom to Lower become the Ridge of Portlaoise. Should be considered on its' own, however, as it has its own orientation and topography which is distinct from the Portlaoise Ridge. (Part of the Kinnity-Clonaslee Esker extending from Co. Laois to Co. Offaly) Flemings Fireclays Slatt Upper, Slatt Lower / Swan Double fireclays. The term Fireclay fireclay was introduced by Quarries (at Richard Griffith Swan) Hollymount Important Hollymount / Carlow This is an important Neogene Neogene site (Miocene - Late Pliocene) site. dark non-marine clays & sands >50m with Miocene - Late Pliocene flora. Only proven Miocene in ROI? Hollymount Miocene - Late Hollymount / Carlow This is an important Neogene Pliocene (Miocene - Late Pliocene) site. dark non-marine clays & sands >50m with Miocene - Late Pliocene flora. Only proven Miocene in ROI? Killeshin Glen Killeshin Siltstone Coorlaghan, Keeloge / Killeshin The Killeshin Siltstone Formation Formation is mainly grey argillaceous or silty mudstones (Higgs 1986) poorly bedded with occasional plant remains, dark grey to black shales occur occasionally containing goniatites and lamellibranchs

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Site Name Principal Townland(s)/district Summary description characteristics

Killeshin Glen Fossiliferous Coorlaghan, Keeloge / Killeshin A valuable stream section Rocks, Goniatites through Upper Namurian fossiliferous rocks in which goniatites are frequent. Kyle Spring wells Kyle/Timahoe springs Luggacurran Namurian Luggacurren Two stream sections provide Stream stratigraphical almost continuous exposure in Section section through the Namurian of the Castlecomer Castlecomer Plateau Plateau Luggacurran Namurian Luggacurren Two stream sections provide Stream stratigraphical almost continuous exposure in Section section through the Namurian of the Castlecomer Castlecomer Plateau Plateau Modubeagh coal mine Swan An old coal mine northeast of Mine Spring discharge spring Wolfhill Colliery. Reportedly has with steps a capped well which was piped to Athy as a water supply. Reportedly has steps built to precipitate iron from mine adit spring Moyadd Westphalian Moyadd / Swan An excellent example of the Stream stratigraphical typical lithologies of the basal section Coal Measures is shown in this stream section. Many of the beds are fossiliferous. Old Rossmore Anthracite Rossmore, Clogrenan Anthracite

Rathleague warm spring Rathleague Derry warm spring Spring Ridge of Esker ridges Townparks, Ballycullenbeg, A glacial esker ridge. It has a Portlaoise Strahard, Debicot, Acragar, road on top. This long, narrow Cloncosney, Derrydavy, ridge is an excellent example of Kyletalesha, Knocknagroagh, a straight, uncomplicated esker Cooltoran, Ballytegan, Gorteen, which does not have a complex Maryborough, Borris Little, Borris topography. It lies 90 degrees to Great, Beladd, Downs, the Kinnity-Clonaslee esker, but Rathleague, Meelick, Capoley, was formed in the same tunnel Ballycarnan system.

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Site Name Principal Townland(s)/district Summary description characteristics

Rock of Cashel deposition Cashel Small outcrop of limestone with features, crinoids characteristics of deposition in and brachiopods turbid environments. The rock is highly fossiliferous with crinoids and brachiopods Rock of Small Limestone Park or Dunamase One of a series of small Dunamase hills: Hums. limestone hills, erosion features known as 'hums' above a plain. Youngest Brigantian strata in the area. Rock of Dunamase - representative site for Stradbally Hills. Site is large enough to include the glacial sediments around it. Rossmore Coal Seams Rossmore Bog, Clogrennan A good exposure of a coal seam visible in occurs in a quarry near sandstone quarry Rossmore. Rossmore Underground Rossmore underground coal mine with (Castlecomer Coal Mine, nearby opencast working (close coalfield) Opencast to roadside grotto). On the edge Working. of the Castlecomer Plateau, this is the only locality on the Leinster Coalfield where coal exposure might be maintained. Timahoe Esker ridges Esker, Coolnabracca, Kyle, One of the best examples of Eskers Orchard Lower, Clondoolagh, esker ridges in the country Fallowbeg Lower, Guileen, showing branching and other Clopook, Fallowbeg Middle characteristic features. A nice anatomising ridge, associated with moraine and fan features in a nice topographic setting.

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14 BUILT HERITAGE

CORE AIM: To protect monuments, special buildings and special groups of buildings that tell us about our history, the development of society, shape our identity and contribute to a recognizable sense of place. 14.1 INTRODUCTION

This chapter sets out how the Council will protect the archaeological and architectural heritage of County Laois. The monuments, buildings, streets and spaces in the towns, villages and rural areas of Laois together make up the rich cultural heritage of County Laois. While change and growth are necessary and bring considerable benefits, it is also necessary and desirable to preserve special elements of our heritage that contribute to our identity and understanding of the past. The conservation of our built heritage also connects us with our past and built heritage assets collectively form part of familiar and valued townscapes and wider landscapes. The built heritage of County Laois has a very considerable contribution to make to the identity of the county itself and also to the wider region. There are some outstanding and very exceptional structures within County Laois, including: The round tower in Timahoe Romanesque doorway in Killeshin Monastic settlement in Aghaboe Fort Protector in Portlaoise Donaghmore workhouse Heywood Gardens Coolbanagher Church Midland Regional Hospital Emo Court and Gardens Ballyfin Demene Castledurrow Demesne Abbeyleix Demesne Stradbally Hall Roundwood Demesne In addition there are many fine groups of buildings including historic and village town centres such as:

Abbeyleix Ballinakill Castletown Durrow Portlaoise Timahoe Other townscapes of significant and special architectural interest include

K͛ŽŶŶŽƌ^ƋƵĂƌĞDŽƵŶƚŵĞůůŝĐŬ Market Square Mountrath Portarlington Market Square and French Church Street Stradbally Main Street By specifying which structures are afforded protection because they are representative examples of building types or exemplify high craftsmanship, landowners, developers and the public are given an element of certainty.

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14.2 CONTEXT

In addition to the statutory framework for affording protection to monuments, buildings and groups of buildings, this chapter is also informed by guidelines produced by the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government: x Framework and Principles for the Protection of the Archaeological Heritage x Architectural Heritage Protection: Guidelines for Planning Authorities (2004)

14.3 BUILT HERITAGE OBJECTIVES

BH 14 / O01 Encourage the understanding of, access to and ƉƌŽŵŽƚŝŽŶ ŽĨ ŽƵŶƚǇ >ĂŽŝƐ͛ ŚŝƐƚŽƌŝĐ architectural heritage and archaeological heritage; BH 14 / O02 Recognise the importance of archaeology and National Monuments as part of our heritage and will provide public access, subject to reasonable conservational restrictions, to Archaeological sites and National Monuments in state, council or private ownership. Traditional access routes will be designated as public rights of way. In other cases, routes will be acquired either by agreement with landowners or way of compulsory powers. Appropriate signage will be put in place. BH 14 / O03 Protect the intrinsic value, character, integrity and settings of monuments and places in the Record of Monuments and Places (RMPs) and any forthcoming statutory register and protect Zones of Archaeological Potential against inappropriate development; BH 14 / O04 Protect all structures listed in the Record of Protected Structures, that are of special architectural, historical, archaeological, artistic, cultural, scientific, social or technical character or interest in County Laois; BH 14 / O05 Designate and Develop Architectural Character Areas in Portlaoise , Abbeyleix and Durrow, Timahoe, Castletown and Ballinakill over the Plan period; BH 14 / O06 Enable and ensure the preservation and enhancement of the special character of existing and forthcoming Architectural Conservation Areas (ACAs) of County Laois and their settings; BH 14 / O07 Protect the setting and promote the importance of the Rock of Dunamaise as a cultural and tourism asset; BH 14 / O08 Secure the protection of the Dunrally Viking Fort BH 14 / O09. Maxmiise the potential as a heritage/cultural and community and tourism site of the Fort of Maryborough, also known as the Fort Protector in Portlaoise

14.4 ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE

The Planning and Development Act 2000-ϮϬϭϬƐĞƚƐŽƵƚƚŚĞWůĂŶŶŝŶŐƵƚŚŽƌŝƚǇ͛ƐŽďůŝŐĂƚŝŽŶƐŝŶƌĞůĂƚŝŽŶƚŽ structures that are worthy of preservation. The protection of special historic buildings and special groups of historic buildings is important as these structures form a rich part of our cultural heritage, can tell us a lot about the economic and social history as well as displaying fine craftsmanship and technical advances.

The Council supports the conservation, marketing, interpretation and appreciation of significant architectural assets in the County. Some of these assets comprise individual structures with distinct architectural integrity, groups of buildings, streetscapes, demesne landscapes intrinsically linked to the special interest of country houses, the arrangement of buildings in and around spaces such as in vernacular

214 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017 farmyards and at market squars, the sympathetic evolution of individual structures displaying different architectural trends There are two primary mechanisms to protect our architectural heritage: x If a structure is considered to be of significant importance, the Council may designate it as a protected structure. A protected structure must be of architectural, historical, archaeological, artistic, cultural, scientific, technical and social interest. x If a group of buildings is considered special and is of significant importance, the Council may designate it as an Architectural Conservation Area.

The inclusion of a structure on the Record of Protected Structures or the designation of an Architectural Conservation Area means: x The designation is a material consideration in the determination of Planning applications; x The undertaking of works to a Protected Structure or within an Architectural Conservation Area that would not usually require Planning permission may require permission; x Owners or occupiers of Protected Structures have a legal duty to protect the structures from endangerment; x Funding is available to assist owners in the maintenance of Protected Structures.

14.5 PROTECTED STRUCTURES

Laois County Council administers an annual Grant Scheme for the Conservation of Protected Structures, for works necessary to secure the conservation of the structure or part of the structure. Other sources of conservation funding are also availĂďůĞ ƐƵĐŚ ĂƐ ƚŚĞ ,ĞƌŝƚĂŐĞ ŽƵŶĐŝů͛Ɛ ƵŝůĚŝŶŐƐ Ăƚ ZŝƐŬ ^ĐŚĞŵĞ͕ ƚŚĞ Ž,>'͛Ɛ ŝǀŝĐ ^ƚƌƵĐƚƵƌĞƐ ŽŶƐĞƌǀĂƚŝŽŶ 'ƌĂŶƚ ĂŶĚ ƚĂǆĂƚŝŽŶ ďĞŶĞĨŝƚƐ ƉƵƌƐƵĂŶƚ ƚŽ ^ĞĐƚŝŽŶ ϰϴϮ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ Consolidated Taxes Act 1997.

14.5.1 Repairs to Protected Structures

Repairs undertaken on a like-for-like basis will not usually require Planning permission; where repairs materially affect the character of a protected structure or affect any element of its special interest, these works do require Planning permission. In the case of Protected Structures, owners are often uncertain about what works require permission. In this instance a Section 57 Declaration may be sought.

14.5.2 Section 57 Declarations on Protected Structures

Section 57 allows an owner or occupier of a protected structure to make a written request to the Planning Authority to issue a declaration as to the type of works which it considers would or would not materially affect the character of a protected structure. Works that materially affect the character of a protected structure reqire planning permission.

In determining Planning applications, the Council will consider the cumulative effect of minor works on the character of the Protected Structure, the preservation of less obvious elements such as the historic layout of a structure or the technical interest of the surviving structure as well as visual features such as decorative facades, staircases, decorated plaster ceilings and internal panelling.

The extension of a Protected Structure or the construction of new buildings within its curtilage or attendant grounds will be carefully considered by the Council. The challenge of retaining the special character and integrity of the Protected Structure should be a stimulus to imaginative design of new elements.

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The achievement of a proper balance between the special interest of a Protected Structure and proposals to alter or extend it to ensure its utility as a structure is always challenging and should be based on specialist expertise. The special character of a Protected Structure cannot be replaced and unsympathetic and unsuitable alteration can result in the loss of the special interest of the structure. Many Protected Structures can sustain a degree of sensitive alteration or extension; however a small number of structures may be sensitive to even slight alterations.

14.5.3 Demolition of a Protected Structure

Total or substantial demolition of a Protected Structure or any significant element of the Protected Structure will not be acceptable in principle, save in exceptional circumstances where demolition and redevelopment would produce substantial strategic benefits for the community which would decisively outweigh the loss resulting from demolition.

The following key considerations will be taken into account when assessing proposals affecting protected structures x The nature of the special interest of the structure, its rarity and condition, x The effort made to sustain existing uses or find viable new uses for the structure, x The extensiveness of the community gain, whether the proposed development is voluntary or profit-driven and whether the proposed development is a cooperative or community endeavour or a private endeavour x The compatibility of the proposals with wider Planning policies.

It is the policy of the Council to BH 14 / P01 Ensure a proper balance between the retention of the special character of a Protected Structure and proposals to alter or extend it to ensure its utility as a structure, thereby conserving its special interest. It is well recognized that any structure that has no viable use is unlikely to have a viable future. In resonse, the function and usage of all structures evolve over time. ͞DŽĚĞƌŶ͟ living standards in terms of utility, water, sanitary and telecommunications services will be accommodated, in addition to transport,requirements and evolving spatial standards. However, it is important to ensure that the special interest of a protected structure is not gradually eroded by minor alterations.

14.6 BUILDINGS AT RISK

Where the restoration or refurbishment of a protected structure or a key Architectural Conservation Area building that is in poor or fair condition is proposed and it is to be carried out to best practice conservation standards for a purpose compatible with the character of the building, relaxation of development management standards on unit sizes, amenity space or parking will be considered by the Council.

PROTECTED STRUCTURES It is the policy of the Council to BH 14 / P02 Protect structures or parts of structures of special interest or character by maintaining a Record of Protected Structures (RPS) (see Appendix 1), structures which form part of this record are afforded special statutory protection; BH 14 / P03 Consult with the DoEHLG In considering Planning applications that may affect protected structures or architectural conservation areas. The Council will have regard to comments

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made by the Department and relevant guidelines such as the Architectural Heritage Protection: Guidelines for Planning Authorities (DOEHLG 2004); BH 14 / P04 Encourage owners awareness of the legal implications of owning a Protected Structure and support owners of Protected Structures by providing advice and guidance in relation to development proposals BH 14 / P05 Encourage owners or prospective owners to seek Section 57 Declarations in order to provide certainty about the extent of works that can be undertaken without Planning permission; BH 14 / P06 Protect Protected Structures from works that would adversely affect or erode their special character and where proposals are made to extend a protected structure or to site new buildings within the curtilage of a Protected Structure, ensure protected structure status is used as a stimulus to the imaginative and considered design of new elements; BH 14 / P07 Request more detailed information, specialist assessments or specifications where necessary in order to fully assess a Planning application. BH 14 / P08 Encourage the full use of Protected Structures, subject to the compatibility of the use with the character of the Protected Structure

14.7 TRADITIONAL BUILDINGS

There are many traditional buildings in the countryside with architectural heritage value which have been left to deteriorate and waste away. Traditional farm buildings can make a significant positive contribution to the Irish landscape. Many were laid out using local tried and tested materials, built to patterns and arrangements that made optimum use of resources. They reveal a great deal about the way the countryside has evolved and the changing fortunes of farming through the ages. A survey of thatch buildings was carried out in County Laois in 2007 which identified the remaining thatched dwellings within the County.

Unfortunately many traditional farm buildings are being lost through neglect. Their timely repair prevents dilapidation and the onset of serious structural problems, which may lead to expensive restoration in the future.

In the current economic climate, there seems to be little incentive to maintain and repair these buildings, with little use for them other than for basic storage. However it is the policy of the Council to encourage the refurbishment and reuse of these buildings as a first priority.

͞dƌĂĚŝƚŝŽŶĂů ƵŝůĚŝŶŐƐ ŽŶ /ƌŝƐŚ &ĂƌŵƐ͟ produced by the Heritage Council in conjunction with Teagasc acknowledges traditional farm buildings and their value in the Irish Landscape and to the heritage of the Country. It summarises by saying:

Traditional farm buildings: x Were built by our forbears who had an intimate sense of the climate and local environment; x Were built from local materials by means of traditions handed down through the generations; x Are aesthetically pleasing features of our countryside; x Are likely to be some of the oldest buildings in the district.

TRADITIONAL BUILDINGS It is the policy of the Council to

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BH 14 / P09 Promote the continued use of traditional farm buildings (both domestic and outhouses) where possible; BH 14 / P10 Encourage the refurbishment of traditional domestic and other buildings that may be of local architectural heritage but are not protected, subject to Planning and environmental considerations; BH 14 / P11 Promote the reuse of old buildings for rural development opportunities. A range of small- scale uses for old buildings may be possible without substantial alteration such as craft workshops or tourism and self-catering accommodation, Small-scale manufacturing industry, such as cheese making, small-scale engineering, furniture making, etc ;

14.8 ARCHITECTURAL CONSERVATION AREAS

An Architectural Conservation Area (ACA) is defined as ͞ŶĂƌĞĂ͕ƉůĂĐĞ͕ŐƌŽƵƉŽĨƐƚƌƵĐƚƵƌĞƐŽƌƚŽǁŶƐĐĂƉĞ of special architectural historical, archaeological, artistic, cultural, scientific, social or technical interest, ŽƌĂŶĂƌĞĂƚŚĂƚĐŽŶƚƌŝďƵƚĞƐƚŽƚŚĞĂƉƉƌĞĐŝĂƚŝŽŶŽĨĂWƌŽƚĞĐƚĞĚ^ƚƌƵĐƚƵƌĞ͘͟

Once designated, protection is afforded to ACAs by restricting development that can be undertaken without Planning permission and through the Planning application consideration process. Architectural Conservation Areas are listed to be designated in Portlaoise, Abbeyleix, Durrow, Ballinakill, Clonaslee, Timahoe and Castletown. See appendix 2 of this Plan.

A map delineating the extent of an ACA and a character statement has been prepared in relation to each ACA. In considering the designation of additional ACAs during the Plan period, the Council will have regard to the following factors: x The sensitivity of areas of special interest to inappropriate development, x Resources, x Local support for the designation x National architectural heritage protection guidelines or government circulars.

In considering applications for new development within or affecting an ACA (infill development, conversions, alterations, extensions, shopfronts, advertisements), special attention will be paid to detailed matters - finishing materials, rainwater goods, fenestration details, any external illumination - as well as more general consideration such as scale, layout, built form, proportions, building lines and relationship of proposals to the site and surrounding area.

Where new buildings are proposed they should be designed with due consideration to their architectural context regardless of whether a historical or contemporary approach to design is taken.

The demolition of buildings or substantial parts of structures in cases where those structures make a positive contribution to the special character of the ACA will not be acceptable in principle. Only in exceptional circumstances, where the redevelopment would produce substantial benefits for the community which would decisively outweigh the loss resulting from demolition, would demolition of this nature be considered.

The demolition of buildings that do not make a positive contribution to the special character of the ACA, will be considered in conjunction with proposals for replacement structures, where applicable. Replacement structures of a lesser quality, appropriateness or interest than the existing one will not be accepted.

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Architectural Conservation Areas It is the Council policy to BH 14 / P12 Designate ACAs in the towns of Portlaoise, Abbeyleix, Durrow , Ballinakill, Clonaslee, Timahoe and Castletown as outlined in Appendix 2; BH 14 / P13 Consider favourably development proposals within an ACA that would either preserve or enhance the special character or appearance of the ACA. In considering applications for changes of use, the Council will be concerned with maintaining the character of that area; BH 14 / P14 Manage change within Architectural Conservation Areas by preserving what makes the ACA special, allowing for alterations and extensions where appropriate, enhancing the quality of the ACA by identifying opportunity sites15. BH 14 / P15 ^ƵƉƉŽƌƚŽǁŶĞƌƐŽĨƉƌŽƉĞƌƚŝĞƐǁŝƚŚŝŶ͛ƐƚŚƌŽƵŐŚƉƌŽǀŝĚŝŶŐĂĚǀŝĐĞĂŶĚŐƵŝĚĂŶĐĞŝŶƌĞůĂƚŝŽŶ to development proposals.

14.9 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE

The archaeological heritage of Laois includes structures, constructions, groups of buildings, developed sites, all recorded monuments as well as their contexts, and moveable objects, situated both on land and underwater. (The European Convention for the Protection of Archaeological Heritage, Valetta 1992)

This means that the archaeological heritage is not confined to the archaeological sites within the Record of Monuments and Places. It includes any archaeological site that may not have been recorded yet, as well as archaeology beneath the ground surface, as well as the context of any site.

The Archaeological Heritage is comprised of: x Recorded sites and features of historical and archaeological importance included in the Record of Monuments and Places as established under section 12 of the National Monuments (Amendment) Act,1994,

x Major sites of archaeological importance in State Ownership or Guardianship (as outlined in Table 26 pg. 194). Full details of all the National Monuments in State Ownership / Guardianship has been included as a number of discrepancies were noted in Table 26.

x National Monuments which are the subject of Preservation Orders in Laois (as outlined in Table 27 pg. 195).

x All previously unknown archaeology that becomes known (e.g. through ground disturbance, fieldwork, or the discovery of sites underwater).

15 Opportunity sites could be buildings that make a positive contribution to the character of the ACA but are in poor condition, vacant, underutilised or unsympathetically altered or an opportunity site could be gap site or an incongruous building that detract from the appearance of the ACA and is suitable for wholesale redevelopment.

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Archaeological heritage comprises archaeological monuments and sites, sub-surface deposits, artefacts and relationships between these elements. Archaeological heritage informs our understanding of prehistoric, early, late and post medieval times and in part shapes our identity. The protection of significant archaeological sites, monuments and places is important as these resources are precious and irreplaceable.

Specific Objectives The following are the specific objectives in relation to Archaeology: BH 14 / O10 Secure the preservation (in-situ or by record) of all sites and features of historical and archaeological interest; BH 14 / O11 Secure the preservation (in situ) of town walls, embankments, town gates, bastions or ancillary fortifications or portions thereof; BH 14 / O12 Preserve the integrity of existing archaeological monuments in their settings including the integrity of town defences; BH 14 / O13 Ensure that development in the vicinity of a site of archaeological interest shall not be detrimental to the character of the archaeological site or its setting by reason of its location, scale, bulk or detailing; BH 14 / O14 Achieve a satisfactory buffer area between the development and town defences in order to ensure the preservation and enhancement of the amenity associated with the presence of town defences within the historic urban pattern; BH 14 / O15 Have regard to the preservation and enhancement of the line of town defences when considering development proposed in their vicinity. Disturbance, removal and alteration of the line of town defences shall not be considered appropriate within the historic cores of Ballinakill, Castletown, Dunamaise, Killabban, Portarlington and Portlaoise; BH 14 / O16 Retain the existing street layout, historic building lines and traditional plot widths where these derive from medieval or earlier origins; BH 14 / O17 Require the preparation and submission of an archaeological assessment detailing the potential impact of any development on both upstanding monuments, and buried structures and deposits. The report will also include a visual impact assessment to ensure adequate consideration of any potential visual impact the proposed development may have on any upstanding remains; BH 14 / O18 In securing such preservation, the Planning Authority will have regard to the advice and recommendations of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, both in respect of whether or not to grant planning permission and in respect of the conditions to which permission, if granted, should be subject. BH 14 / O19 When considering development in the vicinity of all upstanding monuments including town defences, the Planning Authority will require the preparation of submission of an archaeological assessment detailing the potential impact of any development on both upstanding buried structures and deposits. The report will also include a visual impact assessment to ensure adequate consideration of any potential visual impact the proposed development may have on any upstanding remains. BH 14/ O20 When considering proposals for extractive Industry, the applicant shall have regard to the Archaeological Code of Practice agreed between Irisih Concrete Federation and National Monuments Division BH 14 / O21 Prepare a visual impact statement of the area around the Rock of Dunamaise and detail the potential impacts of development in the area; BH 14 / O22 Promote the importance of the Rock of Dunamaise as a cultural and tourism resource.

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The Record of Monuments and Places (RMP):

The Record of Monument and Places (RMP) is a statutory audit of archaeological monuments provided for in the National Monuments Acts. It consists of a county by county set of marked-up Ordnance Survey maps and a manual listing basic information in relation to each monument or area included in the RMP. Monuments in the RMP are protected under the National Monuments (Amendment) Act 1994. The RMP is revised periodically.

Table 28 National Monuments in State Care in Laois Name Description Townland COUNTY Legal Status RMP National Number Monument Number Aghnahilly Ringfort Aghnahilly Laois Ownership LA013-063 540 Coorlaghan Ringfort Coorlaghan Laois Ownership LA037-002 567 Dunamase Castle Dunamase Laois Ownership LA013-052 615 Castle Errill Church & Errill, Laois Ownership LA027-024--- 113 Cross Ballagharahin -, LA027-025 Fossy Church Fossy Lower Laois Ownership LA019-016 114 Killeshin Church Killeshin Laois Ownership LA032- 115 020002 Sleaty Church & Sleaty Laois Ownership LA032- 116 Crosses 018001-, LA032- 018003-, LA032- 018007- Timahoe Church & Timahoe Laois Ownership LA018- 114 Round 031002-, Tower LA018- 031005

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Table 29: Monuments protected by Preservation Orders in County Laois Preservation Order No Monument Name RMP Number Townland Effective Date 197 Lamberton Fort LA018-012--- Lamberton Demesne 1957 190 Motte LA024-006001- Ballyroan 1952 9/77 Ringfort LA028-011--- Garryduff 1977 4/81 Motte & Bailey LA024-015001 Ballinclogh 1981 LA024-015002- 3/95 Clogrennan LA034-008--- Clogrennan 1995

Historic Towns and Town Defences:

Historic Towns which have been identified by the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government for general protection are towns which were first identified in the Urban Archaeological Survey of Laois and which have been included in the RMP. Within Laois these historic towns include the following list ʹ Ballinakill, Castletown, Dunamase, Killaban, Portarlington and Portlaoise.

The guideline boundaries for these towns are illustrated within the RMP. The areas within the historic boundaries are known as Zones of Archaeological Potential, and are areas where intense archaeology is present.

Many of our historic villages, towns and cities comprise a series of streets bounded by town walls, embankments and ditches with town gates marking the entrance to and exit from the urban area. The town defences are amongst the most important monuments in any medieval town.

These fortifications marked out the area of jurisdiction of the ƚŽǁŶ͛Ɛ ĂƵƚŚŽƌŝƚǇ͘ /Ŷ ƐŽŵĞ ĞǆĂŵƉůĞƐ additional protective features, like bastions and star-shaped fortifications were built alongside or outside the original town bulwarks.

In a few rare examples, the modern urban centre has not yet fully developed within the area enclosed by the ambitious town walls. However, in most examples, lengths of town wall, gateways and in some cases town banks and ditches lie within or under the modern urban fabric. The survival of these town defences can vary. Some are relatively intact, although pierced through by modern roads and bridges, others lie ďƵƌŝĞĚďĞŶĞĂƚŚĂƉĂůŝŵƉƐĞƐƚŽĨůĂƚĞƌďƵŝůĚŝŶŐ͘WƌŽƚĞĐƚŝŽŶŽĨƚŚĞƚŽǁŶ͛ƐŚĞƌŝƚĂŐĞŝŶĐůƵĚĞƐƚŚĞƌĞƚĞŶƚŝŽŶŽĨ existing street layout, historic building lines and traditional plot widths where these derive from medieval or earlier origins.

(Details of monuments within Zones of Archaeological Potential are shown on maps accompanying the Urban Archaeological Survey, which Laois County Council has been furnished with.)

The Department would like to draw your attention to the Bruges Resolution on the Conservation of Smaller Historic Towns, (1975), which was adopted by the 4th ICOMOS General Assembly, which outlines the importance of preserving the features of historic towns, while allowing for the necessity of development.

Underwater Archaeology Under the National Monuments Acts 1930-1994 all shipwrecks over one hundred years old, underwater archaeological structures, features and objects are protected. The quantification of the underwater archaeological resource is at a preliminary stage with the National Shipwreck Inventory currently being compiled. This source indicates areas of high archaeological potential within marine environments. The

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Record of Monuments and Places does not include all underwater archaeological sites. As a result, the potential exists for development to impact negatively on our underwater cultural resource. Development Plans should therefore take account of any development and constructional impacts on riverine, lacustrine, intertidal and sub-tidal environments.

14.9.1 Rock of Dunamaise

The Rock of Dunamaise is a site of particular historical, archaeological and cultural importance in County Laois. While the monument is owned by the State through the Office of Public Works (OPW), it is appropriate that the County Development Plan sets out special measures to conserve and enhance this site, and to make it more accessible to the public. The Council is committed to the conservation of the Rock of Dunamaise and will work closely with DoEHLG to ensure its protection for future generations.

Rock of Dunamaise It is the policy of the Council to BH 14 / P16 Work closely with the OPW and the DoEHLG on the conservation of the Rock of Dunamaise to ensure its protection for future generations; BH 14 / P17 ŽŶƚŝŶƵĞƚŽĚĞǀĞůŽƉƚŚĞŽƵŶĐŝů͛ƐĞĚƵĐĂƚŝŽŶĂůƌŽůĞǁŝƚŚƌĞŐĂƌĚƚŽƚŚĞďƵŝůƚŚĞƌŝƚĂŐĞĂŶĚƚŽ promote awareness and understanding of the built heritage; BH 14 / P18 Seek visual impact statements for developments within the area around the Rock in order to assess the potential impacts of development in the area; BH 14 / P19 Promote the importance of the Rock of Dunamaise as a cultural and tourism resource.

14.9.2 Zones of Archaeological Potential

The following zones of archaeological potential have been identified by the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government x Ballinakill (See Map 1.14.1): x Castletown (See Map 1.14.2): x Dunamaise (See Map 1.41.3) x Killabban (See Map 1.14.4) x Portarlington (See Map 1.14.5) x Portlaoise (See Map 1.14.6)

The guideline historic boundaries for these towns are illustrated on the maps as outlined above. The areas within the historic boundaries are known as Zones of Archaeological Potential, and are areas rich in archaeological remains.

Some historic villages and towns comprise streets bounded by town walls, embankments and ditches with town gates marking the entrance to and exit from the urban area. The town defences are amongst the most important monuments in any medieval town. These fortifications marked out the jurisdiction of the ƚŽǁŶ͛Ɛ ĂƵƚŚŽƌŝƚǇ͘ /Ŷ ƐŽŵĞ ĞǆĂŵƉůĞƐ ĂĚĚŝƚŝŽŶĂů ƉƌŽƚĞĐƚŝǀĞ ĨĞĂƚƵƌĞƐ͕ ůŝŬĞ ďĂƐƚŝŽŶƐ ĂŶĚ ƐƚĂƌ-shaped fortifications were built alongside or outside the original town bulwarks. In most examples, lengths of town wall, gateways and in some cases town banks and ditches lie within or under the modern urban fabric. The survival of these town defences can vary. Some are relatively intact, although pierced through by modern

223 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017 roads and bridges, etc . WƌŽƚĞĐƚŝŽŶŽĨƚŚĞƚŽǁŶ͛ƐŚĞƌŝƚĂŐĞŝŶĐůƵĚĞƐƚŚĞƌĞƚention of existing street layout, historic building lines and traditional plot widths where these derive from medieval or earlier origins.

Zones of Archaeological Potential It is the policy of the Council to BH 14 / P20 Ensure protection of Zones of Archaeological Potential, as identified in the Record of Monuments and Places; BH 14 / P21 Have regard to archaeological heritage when considering proposed infrastructure developments (including transport, telecommunications, sewerage and water) located in close proximity to Recorded Monuments or Zones of Archaeological Potential; BH 14 / P22 Ensure that all archaeological excavations are undertaken to the highest standard and the resultant information made publicly available. Developers will be required to have regard to Archaeology & Development: Guidelines for Good Practice for Developers (ICOMOS, 2000) in Planning and executing development in sensitive areas; BH 14 / P23 ŽŶƚŝŶƵĞƚŽĚĞǀĞůŽƉƚŚĞŽƵŶĐŝů͛ƐĞĚƵĐĂƚŝŽŶĂůƌŽůĞǁŝƚŚƌĞŐĂƌĚƚŽƚŚĞďƵŝůƚŚĞƌŝƚĂŐĞĂŶĚ to promote awareness and understanding of the built heritage.

14.9.3 Industrial Archaeology

The industrial archaeology of Laois was the subject of a major survey by the Laois Heritage Forum in 2003. The results of this survey and future field surveys will be used to inform the implementation of the County Development Plan and the formulation of future policies. Laois County Council will afford appropriate protection to such industrial archaeological sites as may come to light following future surveys. In considering the protection of the industrial heritage of the County ancillary heritage e.g. millraces will also be protected.

14.9.4 Groundworks and Zones of Archaeological Potential or Recorded Monuments

In areas of archaeological potential, where groundworks are proposed, the Council favours the preservation in-situ of archaeological remains, where areas of archaeological potential are located in town centres or villages, preservation of archaeological remains by record will be considered.

Where it is proposed to undertake groundworks to lands within an area of archaeological potential or in the vicinity of a recorded monument the Council will require:

The preparation of an archaeological field evaluation by a licensed archaeologist. This assessment comprises an account of the archaeological and historical background of the site, an evaluation of the nature, importance, extent and locations of archaeological remains and of the likely impacts of the development proposals on archaeological remains. Trial trenches are excavated as part of the evaluation process.

The submission of a method statement indicating how the development will be carried out in order to minimise the impact on sub-surface archaeological remains. This could comprise (i) a statement advising how the location of archaeological remains informed the decision on where to locate structures within the site (ii) a no-dig specification in relation to hardstanding areas and boundary walls (iii) non-invasive foundations, such as hand-excavated foundation pads for lightly-loaded structures rather than trench foundations.

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The retaining of a licensed archaeologist to carry out a full archaeological excavation, of all areas that are subject to groundworks and the preservation of archaeological remains by record prior to commencement of development and the furnishing of a copy of the excavation report to the Council and the local library. The retaining of a licensed archaeologist to supervise the carrying out of groundworks during the development process and when deemed necessary by the archaeologist, the cessation of groundworks pending the excavation of any potentially significant archaeological remains by the archaeologist, and the furnishing of an excavation report on same to the Council and the local library.

Where archaeological remains, artefacts or features are found while development is underway, where no archaeological remains were indicated prior to the commencement of development and where no conditions relating to archaeology were imposed by the Council, development works should cease, the archaeological substrata should not be disturbed further and the find should be reported to the National Museum of Ireland and the Minister for the Environment Heritage and Local Government. The Minister has powers to place a preservation order on any significant archaeological remains or monuments discovered regardless of the details of a Planning permission.

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ARCHAEOLOGY It is the policy of the Council to BH 14 / P24 Support the conservation, interpretation and appreciation of significant archaeological assets in the County; BH 14 / P25 Protect the settings of National Monuments from inappropriate development; BH 14 / P26 Protect the integrity, character, value and settings of Recorded Monuments and Places from inappropriate development16; BH 14 / P27 Ensure the appropriate management of Zones of Archaeological Potential; BH 14 / P28 Seek advice from the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government on Planning applications likely to have an impact on RMP sites BH 14 / P29 Have regard to archaeological advice from the Department as it relates to the determination of individual Planning applications. The Council will also have regard to national guidelines relating to archaeological heritage such as Framework and Principles for the Protection of the Archaeological Heritage (DoEHLG 1999); BH 14 / P30 Support the preservation or conservation of historically significant street patterns, building lines and plot widths in its towns and villages as well as the preservation of features such as town walls, historic revetments, and public realm features such as granite kerbing, historic drinking fountains, whether or not they benefit from protection in their own right BH 14 / P31 Encourage the conservation of structures of special industrial archaeological interest.

BH 14 / P32 protect and enhance archaeological monuments and their settings including town walls, town embankments and ditches, town gates, bastions or ancillary fortifications. BH 14 / P33 facilitate appropriate guidance in relation to the protection of the archaeological heritage in the area covered in the Plan. BH 14 / P34 provide guidance to developers and property owners regarding the archaeological implications of a proposed development. BH 14 / P35 promote pre-planning consultations in relation to the archaeological heritage with the Planning Authority and with The Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. BH 14 / P36 endeavour to ensure the dissemination of the results of archaeological excavation in a timely and appropriate manner. BH 14 / P37 promote public awareness of the rich archaeological heritage in the area.

16 There is a requirement to notify the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government of an intention to carry out works to a recorded monument two months before commencing that work pursuant to s.12 National Monument (Amendment) Act 1994. The granting of Planning permission does not affect ministerial decisions under the National Monuments Act 2004 as amended.

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15 GENERAL LOCATION AND PATTERN OF DEVELOPMENT

CORE AIM To provide guidance in identifying particular landuses at the most appropriate locations for development.

15.1 INTRODUCTION

The purpose of zoning is to indicate to property owners and the general public the types of development which the Planning Authority considers most appropriate in each land use category. Zoning is designed to reduce conflicting uses within areas, to protect resources and, in association with phasing, to ensure that land suitable for development is used to the best advantage of the community as a whole.

Section 10(8) of the Planning and Development Act 2000 -2010(as amended) states that there shall be no presumption in law that any land zoned in a particular development Plan (including a development Plan that may have been varied) shall remain so zoned in any subsequent development Plan.

The land use zoning matrix gives guidance as to the acceptability of a list of uses under each zoning objective.

15.2 ZONING PRINCIPLES

/Ŷ ĂĐĐŽƌĚĂŶĐĞ ǁŝƚŚ ƚŚĞ ŽǀĞƌĂůů ƐƚƌĂƚĞŐǇ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ WůĂŶ͕ ƚŚĞ ŽƵŶƚǇ͛Ɛ ǌŽŶŝŶŐ ƐƚƌĂƚĞŐǇ ŝƐ ďĂƐĞĚ ŽŶ ƚŚƌĞĞ important principles in particular

Sufficient lands should be zoned at appropriate locations throughout the County to facilitate the land use requirements for the period 2011-2017; Promote the redevelopment of brownfield sites within urban centres; Ensure that appropriate locations are sought for new developments.

The land use zoning mĂƚƌŝǆĚĞƚĂŝůƐƚŚĞŵŽƐƚĐŽŵŵŽŶĨŽƌŵŽĨůĂŶĚƵƐĞƐŝŶĂĐĐŽƌĚĂŶĐĞǁŝƚŚƚŚĞŽƵŶƚǇ͛Ɛ zoning objectives. These are considered as to their acceptability under the following categories:-

Table 30 Zoning acceptability

Y= Will Normally A use which will normally be acceptable is one which the Local Authority accepts in be Acceptable principle in the relevant zone. However, it is still subject to the normal Planning process including policies and objectives outlined in the Plan.

O= Are Open for A use which is open for consideration means that the use is generally acceptable Consideration except where indicated otherwise and where specific considerations associated with a given proposal (i.e. scale) would be unacceptable, or where the development would be contrary to the objective for a given area. Not a Material Contravention.

N= Will Not Development which is classified as not normally being acceptable in a particular Normally be zone is one which will not be entertained by the Local Authority except in Acceptable exceptional circumstances. This may be due to its perceived effect on existing and

233 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

permitted uses, its incompatibility with the policies and objectives contained in this Plan or the fact that it may be inconsistent with the proper Planning and sustainable development of the area. The expansion of established and approved uses not conforming to land use zoning objectives will be considered on their merits.

15.3 ESTABLISHED USE AND NON-CONFORMING USES

Throughout the County there are uses which do not conform to the zoning objective for the area. These are principally uses which were already in existence on the 1st of October 1964. Extensions to and improvement of premises accommodating these uses may be permitted where the proposed development would not seriously injure the amenities of the area or prejudice the proper Planning and development of the area. In some cases, the Planning Authority may encourage relocation of permitted incompatible uses, for example by exchange of sites.

Existing uses which do not conform to the zoning objectives outlined will continue to operate. A reasonable expansion of non-conforming uses will generally be accepted notwithstanding the zoning objectives. The intensification of a non-conforming use will be considered with regard to zoning objectives as well as general Planning considerations.

15.4 TRANSITIONAL AREAS

While the zoning objectives indicate the different uses permitted in each zone, it is important to avoid abrupt transitions in scale and use at the boundary of adjoining land use zones. In these areas, it is necessary to avoid developments, which would be detrimental to the amenities of the more environmentally sensitive zone. For instance, in zones abutting residential areas particular attention must be paid to the uses, scale, density and appearance of development proposals and to landscaping and screening proposals in order to protect the amenities of these residential areas.

While the zoning objectives indicate the different uses permitted in principle in each zone, it is important to avoid abrupt transitions in scale and use in the boundary areas of adjoining land use zones, where such a transition would have an adverse effect on the amenities of more environmentally sensitive zones. For instance, in enterprise zones abutting residential development within predominantly mixed use zones, particular attention must be paid to the use, scale and density of development proposals in order to protect the amenities of residential property

15.5 PHASED DEVELOPMENT

The Council considers it desirable that development takes place in an orderly manner but recognises it would be unduly restrictive to insist that development takes place in a rigidly phased manner.

15.6 ZONING

The Council recognises that land may not become available for development purposes in an orderly, phased manner and that therefore an allowance must be made over and above the acreage required to accommodate the anticipated development during the Plan period. The area zoned within the development boundary takes account of this fact and permits a more flexible approach to development. Developments in rural areas that would undermine appropriately zoned lands or policies in forgoing chapters will not be permitted.

Development cannot take place without the requisite standard of infrastructural services, and the presence of land use zoning objectives does not necessarily imply that infrastructural services or capacity exist but

234 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017 rather that a particular land use is appropriate to a specific location. The uses considered appropriate to each zone is shown in the land use matrix.

235 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

Table 31: Zoning Objectives and Purposes USE OBJECTIVE PURPOSE Town/ Village Centre To protect and enhance the special The purpose of this zone is to protect and enhance the special character of Town and (Primary / Core Retail Area) physical and social character of the village centre and to provide for and improve retailing, residential, commercial, office, existing Town centre and to provide for cultural, public facilities and other uses appropriate to the centre of a developing urban and improve retailing and commercial core. activities. It will be an objective of the Council to encourage the use of buildings and backlands and especially the full use of upper floors, preferably for residential purposes. Warehousing and other industrial uses will not generally be permitted in the urban core of towns and villages. Proposals for new development in areas at risk of flooding as identified on the land use maps within this zone will be subject to the development management justification test as ŽƵƚůŝŶĞĚŝŶ͞dŚĞWůĂŶŶŝŶŐ^ǇƐƚĞŵĂŶĚ&ůŽŽĚZŝƐŬDĂŶĂŐĞŵĞŶƚ'ƵŝĚĞůŝŶĞƐ͟ϮϬϬϵ͘

Residential 1 To protect and enhance the amenity of This zone is intended primarily for established housing development but may include a developed residential communities range of other uses particularly those that have the potential to improve the residential amenity of residential communities such as schools, crèches, small shops, doctors surgeries, playing fields etc. It is an objective on land zoned for residential 1 to protect the established residential amenity and enhance with associated open space, community uses and where an acceptable standard of amenity can be maintained, a limited range of other uses that support the overall residential function of the area. Within this zoning category the improved quality of existing residential areas will be the Council͛ƐƉƌŝŽƌŝƚǇ͘ In established residential areas in areas at risk of flooding as identified on the land use maps, where the replacement or the reconstruction of an existing dwelling is considered appropriate for wider planning reasons the planning authority should require that ĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚ ŵĂŶĂŐĞŵĞŶƚ ũƵƐƚŝĨŝĐĂƚŝŽŶ ƚĞƐƚ ŝƐ ĐĂƌƌŝĞĚ ŽƵƚ ŝŶ ĂĐĐŽƌĚĂŶĐĞǁŝƚŚƚŚĞ͞dŚĞ WůĂŶŶŝŶŐ^ǇƐƚĞŵĂŶĚ&ůŽŽĚZŝƐŬDĂŶĂŐĞŵĞŶƚ'ƵŝĚĞůŝŶĞƐ͟ϮϬϬϵ͖ There will be no increase in the number of residential units or households There will be no adverse impact on the function of the floodplain , watercourse or conveyancing routes; Residual risk is addressed and reduced where possible, for example through relocation of buildings, and /or flood resilience /resistance measures applied to the site and buildings.

236 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

USE OBJECTIVE PURPOSE Residential 2 To provide for new residential This zone is intended primarily for housing development but may include a range of other development, residential services and uses particularly those that have the potential to foster the development of new residential community facilities within the Plan communities such as schools, crèches, small shops, doctors surgeries, playing fields etc. period 2011-2017 It is an objective, on land zoned for residential 2 to promote development mainly for housing, associated open space, community uses and where an acceptable standard of amenity can be maintained, a limited range of other uses that support the overall residential function of the area. Within this zoning category the improved quality of residential areas and the servicing of ŽƌĚĞƌůǇĚĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚǁŝůůďĞƚŚĞŽƵŶĐŝů͛ƐƉƌŝŽƌŝƚǇ͘EĞǁŚŽƵƐŝŶŐĂŶĚŝŶĨŝůůĚĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚƐ should be of sensitive design, which are complimentary to their surroundings. No piecemeal development can take place unless it does not conflict with the possible future development of the reserved development areas of the town. Adequate undeveloped lands have been zoned in the Plan for residential use to meet the requirements for both public and private house building over the Plan period

Strategic Reserve To provide lands for future Regarding lands included in the Strategic Reserve land bank, it is important to highlight that development in line with national and the inclusion of such lands will not in any way infer a prior commitment on the part of Laois regional targets over the next Plan County Council regarding their future zoning during the review of the subsequent period 2018-2024 development plan for the plan period 2018-2024. Such a decision will be considered within the framework of national and regional population targets applicable at that time and the proper planning and sustainable development of the County. In areas at risk of flooding as identified on the land use maps, where the development is considered appropriate for wider planning reasons the planning authority should require ƚŚĂƚ ĞǀĞůŽŵĞŶƚ DĂŶĂŐĞŵĞŶƚ :ƵƐƚŝĨŝĐĂƚŝŽŶ ƚĞƐƚ ŝƐ ĐĂƌƌŝĞĚ ŽƵƚ ŝŶ ĂĐĐŽƌĚĂŶĐĞ ǁŝƚŚ ͞The WůĂŶŶŝŶŐ^ǇƐƚĞŵĂŶĚ&ůŽŽĚZŝƐŬDĂŶĂŐĞŵƚŶ'ƵŝĚĞůŝŶĞƐϮϬϬϵ͘͟ There will be no increase in the number of residential units or households. There will be no adverse impact on the function of the floodplain, watercourse or conveyancing routes; Residual risk is addressed and reduced where possible, for example through relocation of buildings, and/or flood resilience/resistance measures applied to the site and buildings. Community & Educational & To provide for and improve local This zoning of lands provides for local civic, religious, community, educational and other Institutional neighbourhood, community, facilities ancillary to neighbourhood uses and services. ecclesiastical, recreational and Proposals for new development in areas at risk of flooding as identified on the land use educational facilities maps within this zone will be subject to the development management justification test as ŽƵƚůŝŶĞĚŝŶ͞dŚĞWůĂŶŶŝŶŐ^ǇƐƚĞŵĂŶĚ&ůŽŽĚZŝƐŬDĂŶĂŐĞŵĞŶƚ'ƵŝĚĞůŝŶĞƐ͟ϮϬϬϵ͘

237 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

USE OBJECTIVE PURPOSE Tourism To provide for and improve tourist The areas included in this zoning objective are intended to meet with the needs of the amenities in the County tourist in the County. Uses such as accommodation of all types and ancillary services such as food and beverage establishments will be encouraged within the use zone.

Open Space and Amenity To preserve, provide for and improve The areas included in this zoning objective cover both private and public open space and active and passive recreational public are dispersed throughout urban centres of every size. The Council will not normally permit and private open space development that would result in a loss of open space.

Industrial & Warehousing To provide for and improve industrial This zoning provides for industrial and warehousing uses. Other uses, ancillary or similar to and warehousing development industry and warehousing will be considered on the merits of each Planning application and may be acceptable in this zone. Where employment is a high generator of traffic, the location of new employment at appropriate scale, density, type and location will be encouraged to reduce the demand for travel. The layout of new employment sites will have to have regard for alternative sustainable modes of transport. Site layout should emphasize the necessary connections to the wider local and strategic public transport, walking and cycling networks. Residential or Retail uses (including retail warehousing) will not be acceptable in this zone. Where any Industrial/Warehousing land adjoins other land uses, Laois County Council will require that a buffer zone is provided for and landscaped accordingly in accordance with the Development Control Standards chapter of this Plan. To provide for industrial development, in particular for heavy industry associated with environmental emissions, including noise and odour and with intensive or hazardous processing and also provide for light industry, technology related office development and general office development that exceed 400 square metres. In areas at risk of flooding as identified on the land use maps, where the development is considered appropriate for wider planning reasons the planning authority should require that Develoment Management Justification test is carried out in accordanĐĞ ǁŝƚŚ ͞dŚĞ WůĂŶŶŝŶŐ^ǇƐƚĞŵĂŶĚ&ůŽŽĚZŝƐŬDĂŶĂŐĞŵƚŶ'ƵŝĚĞůŝŶĞƐϮϬϬϵ͘͟ There will be no increase in the number of residential units or households. There will be no adverse impact on the function of the floodplain, watercourse or conveyancing routes; Residual risk is addressed and reduced where possible, for example through relocation of buildings, and/or flood resilience/resistance measures applied to the site and buildings.

238 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

USE OBJECTIVE PURPOSE General Business To provide for and improve commercial The purpose of this zone is to provide for commercial activities and acknowledge the activities. existing/permitted retailing. Any specific development proposal must have due regard to the location of the site within the wider Town context and be in accordance with the proper Planning and sustainable development of the area. Proposals for new development in areas at risk of flooding as identified on the land use maps within this zone will be subject to the development management justification test as ŽƵƚůŝŶĞĚŝŶ͞dŚĞWůĂŶŶŝŶŐ^ǇƐƚĞŵĂŶĚ&ůŽŽĚZŝƐŬDĂŶĂŐĞŵĞŶƚ'ƵŝĚĞůŝŶĞƐ͟ϮϬϬϵ͘

Enterprise and Employment To provide lands for Enterprise and The purpose of this zone is to provide for activities which will generate employment and Employment use, more specifically low encourage enterprise. It is the policy of the Council to ensure that there is adequate land input and emission manufacturing, available to facilitate opportunities for employment creation, and the Council will campus-style offices, storage uses, accommodate commercial and enterprise uses that are incapable of being situated in a wholesaling and distribution, town centre location, provided that such development does not detract from the town commercial services with high space and ĐĞŶƚƌĞ͛ƐĐŽŵŵĞƌĐŝĂůĨƵŶĐƚŝŽŶ͘tĂƌĞŚŽƵƐŝŶŐ͕ĐŽŵŵĞƌĐŝĂů͕ĞŶƚĞƌƉƌŝƐĞĂŶĚĂŶĐŝůůĂƌǇƐĞƌǀŝĐĞƐ parking requirements that may not be should be provided in high quality landscaped campus style environments, incorporating a suitable for town centre locations range of amenities. The uses in this zone are likely to generate a considerable amount of traffic by both employees and service traffic. Sites should therefore have good vehicular and public transport access. The implementation of mobility management Plans will provide important means of managing accessibility to these sites. Proposals for new development in areas at risk of flooding as identified on the land use maps within this zone will be subject to the development management justification test as ŽƵƚůŝŶĞĚŝŶ͞dŚĞWůĂŶŶŝŶŐ^ǇƐƚĞŵĂŶĚ&ůŽŽĚZŝƐŬDĂŶĂŐĞŵĞŶƚ'ƵŝĚĞůŝŶĞƐ͟ϮϬϬϵ͘

Transport and Utilities To provide for the needs of all transport Car parks and commercial development associated with the provision of public transport users and other utility providers. services are considered appropriate in this zoning. This zoning also provides for and preserves land in the ownership of the Council or other bodies charged with the provision of services such as electricity, telecommunications, water, wastewater etc. to the town. The Planning Guidelines allow for consideration of the development of essential infrastructure such as primary transport and utilities distribution (including electricity generation) within flood zones as identified provided that it cannot be located elsewhere. Reconstruction or replacement and minor extensions or alterations to such infrastructure will not be required to satisfy the justification test. However and appropriate level of flood ƌŝƐŬĂƐƐĞƐƐŵĞŶƚƐŚŽƵůĚďĞĐĂƌƌŝĞĚŽƵƚŝŶĂĐĐŽƌĚĂŶĐĞǁŝƚŚ͞dŚĞWůĂŶŶŝŶŐ^ǇƐƚĞŵĂŶĚ Flood ZŝƐŬDĂŶĂŐĞŵĞŶƚ'ƵŝĚĞůŝŶĞƐ͟ϮϬϬϵ͘

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240 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

Table 32 Land use Zoning Matrix Land Use Village / Town Town / Village Centre 1 Residential 2 Residential & Enterprise Employment Business General Centre Neigh Com/Education/ institutional Space Open Tourism Horticulture Industrial Transport and Utilities Apartment Y Y Y N N Y O N N N N N Car Park Y N N Y Y N N N N Y Y N Animal Housing N N N N N N N N N y N O Café Y O O Y Y Y N N Y O O N Caravan Camping N O O N N N O N Y N N O Cemetery N N N N N N Y N N N N O Cinema, Dancehall, O N N N N N N N Y N N N Disco Community Hall O Y Y O O Y Y N Y N N N Craft Industry Y O O Y O O O N Y Y Y N Crèche/ Playschool Y Y Y O O Y O N Y O O N Cultural Uses/ Library Y O O O O Y O N Y N N O Dwelling O Y Y N N N O N Y N N N Funeral Home O N N N N N O N N N N N Garages, Panel N N N O N N N N N N Y N Beating, Car Repairs Garden Centre O N N O O N N N N Y N N Guest Y O O O O N O N Y N N N House/Hostel/Hotel Halting Site N O O N N N O N N N N N Health Centre Y O O O O Y O N N N N N Heavy Commercial N N N O N N N N N Y Y N Vehicle Parks Hot Food Takeaway O N N N N O N N Y N N N Industry N N N O N N N N N Y Y N Industry (Light) O N N Y O N N N N Y Y N Medical and Related Y O O O O O O N N N N N Consultants Motor Sales O N N Y O N N N N N N N Nursing Home/ O O O N N N O N N N O N Sheltered Housing Offices < 100 sq m Y O O Y Y O O N N Y Y N Offices > 100 sq m Y N N Y Y O O N N N O N Park Playground Y Y Y Y Y O Y Y Y O O N Petrol Station Y N N O Y N N N N N O N Place of Worship Y O O N N O Y N O N N N Playing Fields N Y Y N N N O Y Y Y N N Pub Y N N N O O N N Y N N N Recreational Building O O O O O O O N Y N N N (Commercial) Recreational Building Y Y Y O O Y Y O Y O N O (Community)

241 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

Land Use Village / Town Town / Village Centre 1 Residential 2 Residential & Enterprise Employment Business General Centre Neigh Com/Education/ institutional Space Open Tourism Horticulture Industrial Transport and Utilities Restaurant Y O O O O Y O N O O O N Retail Warehouse Y N N O Y N N N N N N N School/Educational Y O O N N O O N N O N N Facilities Scrap Yard N N N N N N N N N N O N Retail < 100sqm Y N N N Y Y N N O O N N (Comparison) Retail > 100sqm Y N N N N Y N N N N N N (Comparison) Retail < 100 sq m Y O O O Y Y N N O O N N (Convenience) Retail > 100 sq m Y N N N N Y N N N N N N (Convenience) Sport/Leisure Complex Y O O Y O O O N Y O N N Utility structures Y O O Y O O O N O Y Y Y Warehouse N N N Y O N N N N Y Y N (Wholesale) Workshops N N N Y N N N N N Y Y N

242 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

16 DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS

CORE AIM: To ensure the orderly development of the county through the use of good design and the implementation of development control policies and standards for a range of types of developments.

16.1 INTRODUCTION

Urban and rural design is concerned with enhancing the character of existing places and creating new places. When places are designed well, they are comfortable places to spend time, feel safe, are well- organised, are interesting to the eye and fit into their setting. With the drive at national level towards higher densities in urban areas, building design is increasingly challenging and important. With our landscapes experiencing significant change, it is as important as ever, that buildings in the countryside do not erode the essential character of our landscapes, but rather sit comfortably and are appropriate for a rural setting.

This chapter is informed by: x Best Practice Urban Design Manual x Design Standards for New Apartments x Sustainable Residential Development in Urban Areas x Sustainable Rural Housing x DĂŬŝŶŐ/ƌĞůĂŶĚ͛ƐĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚ^ƵƐƚĂŝŶĂďůĞ x >ĂŽŝƐŽƵŶƚǇŽƵŶĐŝů͛ƐZŽĂĚƐĂŶĚƌĂŝŶĂŐĞ^ƚĂŶĚĂƌĚƐ͕ǁŚŝĐŚǁŝůůďĞƵƉĚĂƚĞĚƚŽĐŽŶƚĂŝŶĚĞƚails of road widths, footpath and cycle path width, disability requirements, parking, drainage etc.

16.2 OBJECTIVES

DDS 16 / O01 Deliver a high-quality built environment throughout Laois, by consolidating the urban ƐƚƌƵĐƚƵƌĞ͕ĂŶĚƌĞŝŶĨŽƌĐŝŶŐĂŶĚĞŶŚĂŶĐŝŶŐƚŚĞĞǆŝƐƚŝŶŐĐŚĂƌĂĐƚĞƌŽĨ>ĂŽŝƐ͛ƚŽǁŶƐĂŶĚǀŝůůĂŐĞƐ͕ by retaining the rural character of one-off housing sites in the open countryside, and focusing on place-making in new urban or suburban developments. DDS 16 / O02 Ensure the delivery of new structures that are designed with special attention to the specific characteristics or features of the development site, its setting and the surrounding area, be it urban or rural. DDS 16 / O03 Encourage an improvement of the environmental quality of the existing streetscape in urban and suburban areas and where greenfield streets are proposed, ensure the delivery of streetscapes that are well-considered and designed, having regard to the principal functions of the urban or suburban street: place, movement, access, room for parking, drainage, conveyance of utilities and street-lighting. DDS 16 / O04 Create and maintain a network of high-quality public open spaces in urban and suburban areas to foster social inclusion, community cohesion, good health and quality of life, as well to provide meeting places, play areas, sporting facilitates, walking and cycling routes and wildlife habitats.

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16.3 URBAN DESIGN

In considering applications for new residential housing estates, any extensions to town or village centres, or new mixed use developments the proposals will be examined against the following robust principles, which are key to the making of good quality places.

Legibility:- Is Function & Flexibility:- Is the the land used efficiently, development does the development easy to provide for adaptation and change, is there Layouts:- Does the layout Variety:- Do the mix of navigate? Smaller block sufficient space for bins, provide for privacy, safety, ease buildings create enough visual clothes lines, storage? of movement, active street interest/is there a sufficient patterns are preferred. frontages, an attractive public mix of building types or mix of realm, parking, adequate uses? sunlight and daylight

Distinctiveness & Character:- Open Space:- Is the private and public Does the development open space usable, does it provide for create a sense of place? active and passive use, is it attractive, safe, designed to foster biodiversity, is Connectivity ʹ How well- there clear definition between public, connected is the semi-private and private space? development? Is it easily accessible to everyone? Detail:- Are the materials proposed good quality and durable and the elevational Context:- How does details well-considered, are development relate to GOOD services concealed or discretely the site and positioned. surroundings? DESIGN

In its decision-making the Council will also have regard to the detailed design guidance contained in the Ž,>'͛ƐhƌďĂŶĞƐŝŐŶDĂŶƵĂů;ϮϬϬϵͿ

The character of a town or village as experienced by residents or visitors depends in large part upon the public realm. Streets constitute the largest component of the public realm; the perception of them is a major element in the overall experience of a place. Streets that are well-designed and maintained in a good state of repair, that provide for comfortable pedestrian traffic, create a positive ambience and contribute to a sense of civic pride. An attractive village or town centre will draw people in and once there encourage people to spend time, reinforcing its vitality and vibrancy.

Concerns about personal security can deter people from walking, especially when dark. Issues that can ĐŽŶƚƌŝďƵƚĞƚŽĂŶŝŶĚŝǀŝĚƵĂů͛ƐĨĞĂƌŽĨĐƌŝŵĞŝŶĐůƵĚĞ͗ƉŽŽƌůŝŐŚƚŝŶŐ͕ŶĂƌƌow laneways, blind corners, vacancy or dereliction of buildings, absence of passive surveillance of a path, graffiti, and dense vegetation adjacent to paths. Pedestrians will generally take the shortest most convenient route regardless of the location of footpaths. The following criteria should be considered when designing new buildings and layouts: x pedestrian paths should be well-lit and signposted; x pedestrian paths should be routed to maximise surveillance from surrounding buildings; 244 Laois County Development Plan 2011-2017

x where new buildings are proposed, their design should provide for passive surveillance of footpaths nearby; x blind corners should be avoided, where blind corners exist convex mirrors should be provided to allow the user to see what is around the corner; x medium or high-level dense vegetation should not be planted immediately adjacent to paths unless secured by fencing; x Where provided, cycle routes should be safe, direct, coherent, attractive and comfortable; x Where developments face onto river / canals, the following design criteria should be taken into account x Any proposals to increase the extent of public access; x The nature of any recreational use proposed and x Any conflict or compliance with proposals for walking or cyclingroutes.

Streetscape describes the space between buildings on either side of a street, and the elements contained within, such as paving materials, road surfaces, street furniture, lighting, signage and landscape treatment. The following principles are considered important to the design and maintenance of streetscapes:

Function ʹ minimise clutter, remove redundant elements. Commercial use of footpath for tables and chairs relating to restaurants or bars can contribute to the vibrancy of a town centre or village and are appropriate where footpaths are sufficiently wide.

Quality - although resources are always limited, better quality materials and components will look better and last longer, returning better value when a whole life cycle approach is considered. The use of durable materials and a high standard of workmanship are encouraged.

Consistency ʹ Materials in the public realm and elements of street furniture should be consistent where possible to produce a coherent streetscape. Different operators that shape the public realm should coordinate as much as possible.

Sensitive to existing character: The visual, spatial and historical characteristics of a street should inform the carrying out of any environmental improvements. Historic elements of the streetscape such as post boxes, drinking troughs and memorials are familiar landmarks within a local area. Sympathetic treatment of these elements and their settings is important. Formal arrangement and styling of street furniture are suited to formal streets; a more informal approach should be taken to organic or vernacular areas. A contemporary or historicist approach to the design of public lighting schemes, surface treatments, street furniture or signage can be equally valid, depending on the local context. Dark, neutral or muted colour schemes for materials work best and simple, timeless designs are often the most appropriate. Soft landscaping can contribute shade, softness and character to the built environment.

Safety and Balancing of Interests: It is important to create a safe environment where walking and cycling represent viable alternatives to private vehicle use. In towns and villages, there is a balance to be stuck between the allocation of space to private car users to allow for fast transit and high throughput and the allocation of space for wider footpaths, footpaths on either side of the street and the provision of dedicated cycle paths.

Accessible to Everyone: Footpath surfaces should be firm, even and slip-resistant and mobility measures such as tactile paving and dished kerbs should be provided in accord with relevant standards and best practice guidelines. The provision of public seating areas in town centres can be useful to elderly people as well as other users. Pedestrian networks should be continuous.

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Legibility: This means a place that has a clear image and is easy to navigate around. Signage, lighting, recognisable routes and landmarks all contribute to a sense of place and help users orientate themselves and navigate through an area.

16.4 DESIGN AND GREENFIELD URBAN DEVELOPMENT

The following guidance relates to lightly trafficked new streets serving greenfield development for example a new residential estate or a new enterprise park. Although the principles may be applied to other road types where appropriate.

Buildings first: Generally, layouts of buildings and spaces should be considered first, and not be dictated by carriageway alignment.

Hierarchical Network of Streets: Principal arterial routes that serve the new development should be wide and provide for designated vehicular, pedestrian and cycle travel; A reduction in street width, the use of footpaths on both sides of the street and the sharing of streets by pedestrian and car traffic is appropriate for collector/distributor streets which serve multiple buildings; the use of home zones where streets or small open spaces are shared by pedestrians, cyclists and cars are suitable for mews-style developments or where buildings are sited around small public spaces and will also be considered on a pilot basis. The street width should relate to building heights and the characteristics of the street.

Enclosure of Streets: The extent of the street should be clearly defined and enclosed whether by a building line, where site coverage by buildings is high or by landscaping where site coverage by buildings is low.

Permeability: Pedestrians and cyclists should have more than one route to get to a destination. Block sizes, open spaces and circulation networks that permit convenient, safe and comfortable linkages are desirable with new routes connecting to existing networks and movement patterns.

Traffic Calming: The use of curving streets and junctions with turning radii that require low speeds are preferable over hard traffic calming infrastructure such as speed bumps. Changes in road surface materials can alert drivers to areas where they do not have right of way.

Streets as Public Spaces: Streets make up a large proportion of our public realm, so it is important they are designed as spaces for people as well as spaces for movement. Landscaping, street furniture, finishing materials can contribute interest or character to a street making it a pleasant public space to use and move through.

16.5 DESIGN AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT

Laois County Council has produced this Guidance for all those who are thinking of building a house in the countryside. It has been prepared to show the importance of good siting and sensitive design for one-off houses in the rural areas of County Laois. The aim of the Guidance is: x To describe the site Planning and design issues that need to be addressed; and x To clearly set out what is acceptable and what is not acceptable in terms of one-off houses in County Laois.

Laois County Council recognises the need to improve the quality of house design in the countryside and, in particular, that new houses are better related to their surroundings. The Guide does this by identifying crucial site Planning and design principles that need to be taken into account when considering building a new house.

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This does not mean that all one-off houses should look the same. Instead the County Council promotes a creative interpretation of the key principles so that individual and contemporary house designs are achieved.

The County Council will expect all Planning applications for one-off houses to demonstrate how these guidelines have been taken into account. Proposals which fully reflect the guidelines are likely to reduce requests for further information, while those that do not are unlikely to be successful.

Good Design It is the policy of the Council to DDS 16 / P01 Encourage the creation of attractive, usable, durable and adaptable structures, spaces and places in order to foster the development of sustainable and cohesive communities. DDS 16 / P02 Encourage successful coordination of proportions, material, colour and detail. Proposed new buildings should be fit-for-purpose and use internal and external space efficiently. Particular attention will be given to form, emphasis, building lines, eaves and rooflines as these elements have a significant effect on the impression of a building.

It is intended that these development standards will provide guidance and assistance to those who seek permission. These standards support and inform the policies and objectives as set out in each of the previous sections.

16.6 PRE-PLANNING CONSULTATION

The Council in accordance with Section 247 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) provides an opportunity for applicants to engage in discussions with the Planning Authority, prior to making a Planning application.

Applicants are encouraged to avail of this service, particularly for large scale developments such as residential estates, quarries and wind farms, to ensure Planning applications are processed in a timely manner. It should, however, be noted that such discussions will not prejudice any subsequent decision made by Laois County Council.

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Table 33: Development Control Standards DEVELOPMENT PLAN STANDARDS URBAN RESIDENTIAL DCS 1 Density of Residential The Planning Authority in assessing applications for residential development will have Development regard to the Residential Density Guidelines (DoEHLG 1999) and the Sustainable Residential Development in Urban Areas Guidelines (DoEHLG 2009), which include the following considerations: The status of the development location under the settlement structure Existing topography, landscape and other site features The prevailing density of residential development in the surrounding area Physical and social infrastructure and related capacity The quality of the design concept, layout, landscaping, block formation etc Compliance with Development Plan qualitative and quantitative standards While the Council is supportive of higher density in principle, iƚŝƐƚŚĞŽƵŶĐŝů͛ƐŽƉŝŶŝŽŶ that the higher the density proposed, the more challenging it is for the designer to create a well-considered, liveable and pleasant residential environment and therefore there is a strong association between higher density and the need for good quality design. DCS 2 Landscape Design, Public open space in the order of 10% of the site area will generally be required. Where Public Open Space in this cannot be feasibly because of the small size of a site, a contribution to local amenity New Residential facilities will be required in lieu. Development In new estate developments, developers will be expected to provide a hierarchy of high- quality public open spaces, with a range of vegetation including grassed areas, low-level shrubs and flowers and trees and a range of amenity functions.

Good surveillance of landscaped areas is necessary to avoid opportunities for crime and anti-social behaviour. In larger schemes, a network of linear and expansive spaces can provides variety and a pleasant walking or cycling environment.

DCS 3 Amenity and facilities No. of Amenity Required Dwellings <25 Landscaped passive recreational area (sitting out and setting) Active amenity open space (Ball Games)

26-99 Landscaped passive recreational area (sitting out) Active amenity open space (Ball Games) Areas for younger children (Play area/ground) (min.100m2) OR -Multi Use Games Area (tennis/basketball) 100+ Landscaped passive recreational area (sitting out) Active amenity open space (Ball Games) Areas for younger children (Play area/ground) (min.200m2) -Multi Use Games Area (tennis/basketball) -Grass sports pitch/ playing fields or -Multi Use Games Area (tennis/basketball)

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DEVELOPMENT PLAN STANDARDS DCS 4 Private Open Space in Unit Type Urban Areas Suburban New Residential The Areas Development Apartments 5 sq metres 8 sq metres Houses 10 sq metres per bedroom proposed 20 sq metres per bedroom proposed

provision of private open space is essential to the creation of sustainable neighbourhoods and crucial to successful residential development. The Council requires the following quantitative and qualitative standards. The Council will calculate amenity space by excluding areas used for parking (such as driveways), marginal land strips measuring less than 1.5 metres wide and balconies, winter gardens or roof terraces measuring less than 1.5m in depth.

In addition to the above standard, the Council will require 15m rear garden depths and 30m back to back separation distances in conventional housing layouts.

In all cases, amenity space in new residential development should: (a) Be of a usable and practical configuration (b) Be of an appropriate scale to ensure usability ;ĐͿĞ͚ĨŝƚĨŽƌƉƵƌƉŽƐĞ͛ŝŶƚĞƌŵƐŽĨƚŚĞƉĂƌƚŝĐƵůĂƌďƵŝůĚŝŶŐŝƚƐĞƌǀĞƐ (d) Incorporate high quality landscaping (e) Result in an acceptable relationship between buildings

Arrangement proposing shared semi-private open space will also be considered, however a quantum of wholly private open space should always be included.

DCS 5 Internal Space The following minimum space standards are required in relation to new residential Standards in New development: Residential Development Minimum Size of Dwelling Unit ʹ gross area One Bedroom 45 sq m Two Bedrooms 73 sq m Three bedrooms 90 sq m Minimum floor area and Minimum Widths of Minimum widths for communal living living/dining room(s) Aggregate spaces in all dwelling units floor area of living, dining and kitchen area One Bedroom 3.3m 23 sq m Two Bedrooms 3.6m 30 sq m Three bedrooms 3.8m 34 sq m Minimum bedroom floor Minimum bedroom Minimum areas and widths in all width flood area dwelling units of bedrooms Single Bedroom 2.1m 7.1 sq m Double Bedrooms 2.8m 11.4 sq m Twin bedrooms 2.8 m 13 sq m Minimum Storage Space Required for Apartments One bedroom 3 sq m Two bedrooms 6 sq m Three or more bedrooms 9 sq m

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DEVELOPMENT PLAN STANDARDS DCS 6 Bring Banks The Council will require one set of Bring Banks per 1,250 of population in future planning applications relating to residential developments. In all of the above proposals Laois County Council would be responsible for the servicing of the Banks unless alternative arrangements are made with the private sector. DCS 7 Naming of Estates Details of the proposed names of new streets or estates should be submitted to the Council as part of the Planning application, along with reasons for the choice. The names should reflect local history, local place names, local people of note, topography or other elements of the local landscape.

Naming of streets and residential estates shall reflect the local place names and local people of note, heritage, language or topographical features as appropriate and shall incorporate old place names from the locality as much as possible.

The use of bi-lingual and Irish-Language signs will be encouraged. Naming and numbering of residential estates shall be approved in advance by the Placenames Committee of the Planning Authority.

Along with suggested estate names, developers must submit reasons for their choice. A Council Committee has been formed to advice on naming of new residential developments. Signage should be of appropriate size and material and shall be erected in a timely manner.

BUILT FORM DCS 8 Extensions and Extensions and alterations should harmonise with the principal building and fit into their Alterations to site and surroundings in terms of scale, bulk, form and materials. Contemporary or Dwelling Units in historicist approaches are sometimes equally valid. Extensions should be in proportion Urban and Rural with existing buildings, they should not have an adverse effect on neighbouring properties Areas or the surrounding area and they should positioned to ensure the privacy and adequate sunlight and daylight to key habitable rooms.

DCS 9 Roof Profile Alterations to the profile of a roof will only be permitted where the alteration will not Alterations detract from the character or appearance of the building or it detrimental to the street scene or its rural setting.

DCS10 Infill Development Within many urban areas that benefit from good services, there are opportunities for infill development. Infill development is encouraged in principal where it does not adversely affect residential amenity (privacy, sunlight, daylight etc) or the functioning of transport networks.

BUILDING IN THE COUNTRYSIDE DCS11 New Dwelling Houses New dwellings in the countryside require road frontage of 30 metres and the related site in Rural Areas should measure at least 0.5 acres The floodlighting of single-family dwellings or the lighting of private roads in rural areas will not be accepted Refer to Rural; Design Guidance in Appendix 7 for policy on siting, design, landscaping etc

DCS Replacement Where it is proposed to demolish a dwelling house in the countryside and construct a new 12 Dwellings in Rural dwelling house in its place: Areas The applicant will be subject to the local need test unless the application is supplemented with evidence that the dwelling proposed for demolition has not been abandoned (uninhabited for 5 years or more) and is not derelict

Where the structure proposed for demolition is habitable and in a vernacular tradition, a replacement structure will only be accepted where the replacement dwelling is of equal or superior merit.

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DEVELOPMENT PLAN STANDARDS TOWN AND VILLAGE CENTRE DEVELOPMENT DCS Living Over the Shop Where a single residential unit is proposed for development above commercial or retail 13 ground floor premises in a town or village centre, the requirement to provide amenity space and a parking space will be waived and the requirement to meet unit size standards will be relaxed.

Proposals involving the removal of an access point from the street to the upper storeys of a town centre building shall not be accepted.

COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT DCS GENERAL The general principles guiding the location of commercial development in the County 14 CONSIDERATION have been set out in preceding chapters. In assessing Planning applications a number of considerations will be taken into account:- Conformity with the land use policies in respect of Commercial Development; The design, quality and mix of uses being proposed particularly in town centres where redevelopment and changes of use need to be orientated towards creating a vibrant and lively, quality directed commercial core; The requirement that design quality protects but also enhances the architectural character of the town, particularly in relation to landmark structures and viewpoints; The potential impact to be generated in terms of traffic movement, parking provision and desirability thereof and whether or not consideration has been given to access and commuter movements; Whether or not the proposed development will have a significant detrimental effect on the amenities of the surrounding areas; The energy efficiency and overall sustainability of the development which includes practical considerations, such as servicing, deliveries, waste/recycling and overall management thereof; Whether or not a land contamination assessment is necessary and is required as part of the Planning Authority requirements, and Whether or not an E. I. S. has been deemed necessary and provided as part of the Planning Authority requirements. Provide a location for a set of Bring Banks as part of their car park layout and provide the banks in agreement with Laois County Council Demolition within town centres will not normally be permitted unless fully justified by structural assessment and positive redevelopment proposals within the context of preceding objectives outlined above.

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DEVELOPMENT PLAN STANDARDS DCS15 Commercial The guiding policy considerations are set out in Chapter 8(Enterprise and Employment). In development other cases where these developments generate heavy traffic, they may not be sited where than shopping and they would encourage movement of heavy vehicles through residential areas. office development :- The criteria for assessment of such developments will include:- Warehouses and - The nature/activities/processes of the proposed development and site location factors; Industrial - The compatibility with adjoining uses; Uses/Business - The traffic implications and alternative access, servicing and sustainable mobility Plans / Campuses Commuting arrangements; - The quality of building design; - The site layout including car parking arrangements; - Landscaping Plans; - The energy efficiency and overall sustainability of the proposed developments.

All surface water run-off in stormwater management systems shall pass through an adequately sized hydrocarbon interceptor before any discharge to surface waters. The separator shall be a Class I full retention separator, and shall be in accordance with I.S. EN 858-2:2003 (separator systems for light liquids). The separator shall be located, installed, operated and maintained in accordance with the recommendations of the manufacturer.

All tank, container and drum storage areas shall be rendered impervious to the materials stored therein. Bunds should be designed hĂǀŝŶŐ ƌĞŐĂƌĚ ƚŽ ŐĞŶĐǇ ŐƵŝĚĞůŝŶĞƐ ͚^ƚŽƌĂŐĞ ĂŶĚdƌĂŶƐĨĞƌŽĨDĂƚĞƌŝĂůƐĨŽƌ^ĐŚĞĚƵůĞĚĐƚŝǀŝƚŝĞƐ͛;ϮϬϬϰͿ͘ All tank storage areas shall, as a minimum be bunded, to a volume not less than the greater of the following:

110% of the capacity of the largest tank or drum within the bunded area 25% of the total volume of substance that could be stored within the bunded area DCS Commercial Development proposals in the open countryside should satisfy a high standard of location, 16 Development in Rural siting and design to ensure they are satisfactorily assimilated into their rural setting. Areas Design and Siting The Council will require that commercial developments in the rural countryside comply with the following design principles: Buildings should be kept simple and should be finished with materials appropriate to a rural setting such as nap plaster, stone and slate. Buildings should reflect the scale and pattern of the rural development in the vicinity. Building height should be restricted to that required for the normal operation of the premises. Building of excessive height will not be permitted. Buildings should be sited to make use of existing hedgerows and topography to provide natural screening. Buildings in open landscapes should be avoided. Access roads and driveways should respect existing site contours. Car Parking should be located to the rear of the building. Advertising signs should be kept to a minimum. Large advertising signs at the road frontage will be resisted. Hedgerows or stone walls should be used for the boundary treatment. Security palisade fencing shall not be permitted in rural areas.

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DEVELOPMENT PLAN STANDARDS DCS Home Based ,ŽŵĞ ďĂƐĞĚ ĞĐŽŶŽŵŝĐ ĂĐƚŝǀŝƚǇ ŝƐ ĚĞĨŝŶĞĚ ĂƐ ͚ǁŽƌŬŝŶŐ ĨƌŽŵ ŚŽŵĞ͛͘ /Ŷ ĚĞĂůŝŶŐ ǁŝƚŚ 17 Economic Activity applications for such developments the Planning Authority will have regard to the following: The nature and extent of the work; The effects on the amenities of adjoining properties particularly as regards hours of operation, noise and general disturbance; The anticipated levels of traffic generation, and The generation, storage and collection of waste.

Permissions for such partial change of use will be restricted to use by the applicant and may be temporary, for a three-year period, in order to enable the Planning Authority to monitor the impact of the development. Permission will not normally be granted for such changes of use in apartments.

Conversion of part of a dwelling to a medical or dental surgery, childminding or childcare facilities will normally be permitted where the dwelling remains as the main residence of the practitioner and where a local need has been demonstrated.

Conversion of the ground floor of a dwelling to a surgery with a separate apartment on the upper floor may be permitted where there are no other more suitable premises available. A traffic and car parking statement shall accompany any application for such a change of use.

DCS Public Houses/Night Night clubs and disco bars play an important role in urban areas providing a night use 18 Clubs/Disco- which adds to the attraction of a town. They will not, however, be permitted in residential bars/Dance Floors areas. Noise levels at the boundaries of these establishments will be monitored as circumstances require and mitigation measures will be required at the time of the submission of the Planning application.

DCS Filling Stations Applications for filling stations should take account of the following: 19 Be located within urban areas within speed limits; Access to filling stations will not be permitted closer than 35 metres to a road junction; Frontage on primary and secondary routes must be at least 20 metres in length; All pumps and installations shall be set back at least 5 metres from the roads; A wall, of a minimum height of 0.5 metres, must separate the forecourt from the public footpath; All external lighting should be cowled and directed away from the public roadway to prevent traffic hazard; A proliferation of large illuminated projecting signs will not be permitted at filling stations. Generally only one such sign will be permitted; Turbo-drying or car washing facilities will be located so as not to interfere with residential amenities; Any shop being provided shall be ancillary to the principal use of the premises as a filling station and shall be a maximum size of 100sq.m. excluding storage; An undue concentration of filling stations shall not be permitted, as in the past oversupply has led to closures with resulting unsightly derelict filling stations; Late night opening will only be permitted if it does not impact adversely on nearby residences; A landscaping Plan will form part of any Planning application.

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DEVELOPMENT PLAN STANDARDS DCS Taxi/Hackney Cab The importance of taxi and cab services as a means of transport in all towns is 20 Bases recognised. However, cab bases will not be permitted where they are likely to interfere with traffic flows or on street parking. A proliferation of hackney bases will not be permitted in any one location.

Regard will be had to the impact of the hackney cab base on the amenities of the area and restrictions will be placed on the hours of opening of such facilities. It should be shown that satisfactory off-street parking facilities are provided when the vehicles are not in use. The Council fully endorses that taxi and cab bases should be fully accessible to people with disabilities.

DCS Amusement Centres Amusement centres will not be permitted in residential areas, and undue concentration 21 of amusement arcades will not be permitted in any case. The character of the area and adjoining business will be taken into account when Planning applications for amusement arcades are being considered DCS Hot Food Take-Aways Within the commercial core of all towns a proliferation of hot food 22 ͞ƚĂŬĞ-aways͟ǁŝůůŶŽƚďĞĞŶĐŽƵƌĂŐĞĚ͘ĚĚŝƚŝŽŶĂůƚĂŬĞĂǁĂǇƐǁŝůůŶŽƚďĞƉĞƌŵŝƚƚĞĚǁŚĞƌĞ there is a loss of office and retail frontage, in order to preserve the character of these areas.

Regard will be had to the impact of hot food take-aways on the residential amenities in an ĂƌĞĂ͚͘^ƚĂŶĚĂůŽŶĞ͛ƚĂŬĞ-aways, not attached to restaurants, will not be encouraged. The Planning Authority may impose restrictions on opening hours to 12p.m. (midnight) of hot food take-aways where these are permitted.

DCS Childcare Facilities The provision of childcare facilities is subject to the Child Care Act and the Child Care (Pre- 23 School Services) Regulations 1996. The Planning Authority recognises the need for properly run and conveniently located childcare facilities throughout the County. It is the policy of the County Council to implement the Planning Guidelines on Child Care Facilities, 2001.

Applications for childcare facilities in a residential area will be assessed on the basis of their impact in terms of noise, loss of residential amenity, traffic generation and general disturbance. In general, the factors to be considered in determining application for a childcare facility are as follows: Have regard to the Child Care (Pre-School Services) Regulations, 1996, in relation to the Planning implications of these Regulations; Suitability of the site for the type and size of facility proposed; Availability of outdoor play area and details of management of same; Convenient to public transport nodes; Safe access and convenient parking for customers and staff; Number of such facilities in the area; Intended hours of operation (in certain residential areas, 24 hour operations could be problematic). The Council fully endorses that childcare facilities should be convenient to public transport nodes in order to achieve sustainability and provide access to all people especially in urban areas with population over 2,500 persons.

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DEVELOPMENT PLAN STANDARDS SHOPFRONTS DCS Shopfronts - General The design and quality of shopfronts play an importance role in the experience of a town 24 Design centre environment. It is important that they should not compromise the local character, scale and architectural quality of the host building. The Council has designated some shopfronts as protected structures and some shopfronts fall within architectural conservation areas, conservation policies will relate to these shopfronts. Generally, the Council willeek the retention of traditional shopfronts encourage the reinstatement of these shopfronts, where they have fallen into disrepair.

Contemporarily-designed bespoke shopfronts may be suitable to new commercial areas or to historic buildings if existing shopfronts are of poor quality.

Traditional shopfronts are comprised of the following principal elements and proportions: the stallriser at the base of the shopfront, according to a general traditional rule of thumb should occupy approximately a third of the height of the shopfront the shop window for the display of retails goods or the services provided the fascia board, according to a general rule of thumb should not exceed approximately a fifth of the height of the shopfront and is used to display an advertisement for the shop and commercial use. DCS Shopfront and Internal lighting of shop windows tends to add positively to an area, inviting to window 25 Security shopping out of business hours and adding security by deterring vandalism and antisocial behaviour. Roller shutter blinds are not encouraged. Where security measures are required, internal lattice or mesh shutters or toughened glass are preferred.

DCS Canopies, Smoking Straight canopies are generally acceptable providing the footpaths are sufficiently wide 26 Shelters and Outdoor and a clearing head height is provided. Dutch canopies may also be acceptable. Dining Areas Advertisements to canopies will not generally be accepted. Outdoor dining to the front of premises either on private forecourt or subject to license on the public footpath is generally acceptable if sufficient space is available, though this may be restricted to daytime hours if the noise generated would affect the amenities of nearby residents. Outdoor dining can contribute to the vitality and vibrancy of a town centre. The provision of beer gardens to the rear of public houses or bars is generally acceptable, however the hours of use may be restricted to daytime hours if it is considered that the noise generated would adversely affect the amenities of nearby residents. The provision of smoking shelters which conform to environmental health standards is acceptable.

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DEVELOPMENT PLAN STANDARDS ADVERTISEMENTS DCS Shopfront The Council expects the standard of advertisement to be of high quality and not to detract 27 Advertisements from the appearance of the shopfront or the street. As a general rule, subtle and simple schemes with regard to colours, size, design and lettering work best.

Where a business occupies more than one building, the fascia advertisement should not extend uninterrupted across two or more shopfronts. The fascia advertisement should not extend beyond the pilasters/vertical shop front surround and not obstruct any other architectural detail, such as the cornices. Corbels or first floor window sills. Shop advertisements generally do not require illumination other than street lighting or lighting of shop windows. Only late opening premises, such as public houses and restaurants, should require additional illumination Modern boxed fascia advertisements, which project from the face of the building, with internal illumination are not acceptable. Neon and fluorescent lighting is not acceptable. If necessary, external illumination should be kept to a minimum and discreetly positioned; spot lighting, recessed trough lighting and halo lighting are generally acceptable. The fascia board should normally state only the name or trade of the business and the street number. Avoid oversized lettering and the application of too much additional information as this can create visual clutter. Letters should generally not exceed 60 percent of the height of the fascia. Painted wooden, matt finished advertisements or individually applied brass or chrome letters are preferred over large areas of highly polished finishes, glossy plastic or Perspex advertisements. Lettering or sign writing should usually be applied directly to the fascia. Avoid adding new fascia boards to an existing one. Projecting hanging signs are a traditional form of additional advertising of commercial premises, they can complements the colour and design of the fascia, it can add interest and originality to a building and street scene. There should be no more than one hanging sign per shopfront and they should keep an adequate vertical clearance from the pavement and not project over any carriageways. The erection of speakers on the exterior of commercial or residential premises will not be permitted DCS Advertisements on Advertisements on the public road network are subject to license. 28 Public Road Network Applications for advertisements of this nature on the national road network will be determined with regard to NRA Policy on Provision of Tourism and Leisure Signage on National Roads 2007 Applications for advertisements of this nature on the regional and local road network should be in a fingerpost sign format.

dŚĞŽƵŶĐŝů͛Ɛ policy is to avoid signage for businesses within urban speed limits and for rural businesses, licences will be considered for one sign at the appropriate junction on a regional road and one sign at each junction leading to that business, subject to road safety and other criteria, and at the discretion of the Council.

The Council supports the provision of standard-sized fingerpost signs to advertise commercial enterprises subject to road safety considerations and subject to license. If it decisions, the Council is mindful that a proliferation of signage within a small area can lead to visual clutter and this may constitute a traffic hazard. For reasons of road safety, fingerpost signs for commercial enterprises must not distract from road signs, changes to road layout or traffic lights/crossings.

White on brown signs are reserved for tourism attractions and facilities only. Clear tourist signage is an essential element in assisting the motoring tourist to locate these many attractions in a safe and efficient manner. Fingerpost signs for other commercial activities on the regional and local road network should be of a different colour scheme.

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DEVELOPMENT PLAN STANDARDS DCS Billboards The exhibition of billboard advertisements will be permitted only where approved 29 Advertisements advertisement structures are in place

The erection of new advertisement structures to exhibit billboards will be considered with due regard to traffic safety and visual amenities and NRA policy relating to advertisements. It is considered there is limited capacity for the erection of additional structures of this nature without prejudicing road safety and visual amenity DCS Temporary Sandwich Temporary sandwich board style signage poses a hazard for people with visual 30 Board Style Signage impairments as well as reducing the width of footpaths for wheelchair users and will not be encouraged. TRANSPORT DCS Sightlines on the Sightlines on National, Regional and local roads shall meet the requirements of the 31 Road network Councils Road Safety Standards

DCS Set back Distances Set back distances from National, Regional and local roads shall meet the requirements of 32 from the Road the Councils Road Safety Standards Network DCS Parking in Front The cumulative effect of removal of front garden walls and railings damages the 33 Gardens appearance of suburban streets and roads. Consequently proposals for off street parking need to be balanced against loss of ameniƚǇ͘tŚĞƌĞƉĞƌŵŝƚƚĞĚ͕͞ĚƌŝǀĞ-ŝŶƐ͟ƐŚŽƵůĚ͗ Not have outward opening gates; Have a vehicular entrance of generally not less than 4m; Have an area of hardstanding (parking space of 2.5m x 5m); Retain the balance as garden, and Have gates, walls and railing made good

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DEVELOPMENT PLAN STANDARDS DCS General Parking Parking standards are based on gross floor area. Excluding nursing home 34 Standards Generic Car Parking Space minimum measurements: 2.4m *4.8m Disabled Car Parking Space minimum measurements: 3.6m *4.8m Units for which one car parking space is to be provided are set out in table below. Development Contributions will be required in cases where there is a shortfall in on site car parking. Areas Other than residential for which One Parking Space is Required Development Unit Shop < 250 sq m 1 space per 25 sq m Shop > 250 sq m 1 space per 20 sq m Large stores > 1000 sq m 1 space per 30 sq m Banks Financial Institutions 1 space per 20 sq m Offices 1 space per 20 sq m Industry / Manufacturing 1 space per 50 sq m Warehousing 1 space per 100 sq m Theatre/Cinema/Church/Stadium 1 space per 3 seats Hotels Guest Houses (excluding 1 space per bedroom function rooms Public Houses / Lounge Bars 1 space per 10 sq m Restaurants 1 space per table Function Rooms/Dance Halls/ Clubs 1 space per 3 sq m Playing Fields 15 spaces per pitch Primary Schools 2 spaces per classroom Secondary Schools 2 spaces per classroom Nursing Homes 1 space per 2 bedrooms Hospitals 1 space per bed Childcare Facilities 1 space per staff member plus 1 space per 4 children Clinics and Group Medical Practices 2 spaces per consultant/practitioner DCS Design of Surface Car Particular care must be used in the design of surface car parks in order to avoid an 35 Parks oppressive effect on the public realm and to provide for pedestrian transport. The use of soft landscaping including tree Planting and Planter boxes within large car parking areas, variation in the choice of surfacing material and the delineation of pedestrian routes are effective tools in the creation of a pleasant environment.

Disabled parking to be located as close to the destination entrance as possible and highlighted by way of signage and colour variation. DCS Bus Shelters/other Advertising on bus shelters will be permitted in locations which do not detract from the 36 structures primary purpose of the transport shelter. General advertisements and promotional design advertisements on telephone kiosks within Town centres will not be permitted. DCS Cycle Provision See Cycle stands will be required for development in town centre locations and other areas in 37 policy TT10/P 48 which the topography is suitable for cycling. Stands should be of an approved type and should be in a secure location. Cycle Provision (Access and storage) will be particularly important in respect of developments for: apartments, public services, hospitals, colleges and community facilities and details of such provision will be required as part of any Planning application for such development.

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DEVELOPMENT PLAN STANDARDS DCS Siting and Design of New cycle parking should be located as close as possible to the destination entrance, 38 Cycle parking prominent, secure and covered.

Sheffield cycle stands (inverted U) or rounded A-frame stands are preferred, butterfly cycle parking stands are not suitable.

DCS Mobility A workplace travel Plan will be required where a Planning application proposes the 39 Management Plan establishment of a commercial enterprise or public sector offices where the number of employees exceeds 100 or a school where the number of students exceeds 50

DCS Unsewered The Council will ensure that only on-site wastewater treatment systems that are of a 40 Properties suitable design and located in a suitable area will be permitted.

The Council requires that the provision of wastewater treatment for single houses meets with the requirements of the EPA Code of Practice 2009.

The Council will consider pathway risk map dataset combining the geology, subsoil permeability and aquifer bedrock type with regard to suitability of general location for on- site wastewater treatment systems, as this dataset becomes available, when assessing applications for unsewered dwelling units. This dataset will be used in combination with the site characterisation test to determine site suitability. If permitted, the developer must ensure that the system is installed and maintained to a good standard, with regular de-sludging being carried out. The use of alternative wastewater treatment systems for unsewered properties, such as wetlands and reed beds and the need for tertiary treatment of wastewater will be considered on a case-by-case basis DCS Buffer Zones Where Planning permission is required, the employment of a buffer zone of a minimum of 41 15 metres between watercourses, wells and lakes and animal housing units, farmyards, manure pits, other structures that could rise to nutrient enrichment or conifer Plantations will be required.

Wider buffer zones may be required depending on slope conditions, silt or nutrient control measures, nutrient enrichment from fertilisers, the acid buffering capacity of soils and the sensitivity of the water resource on the site character and the nature of the development proposed. DCS Industrial/ Waste/ Where proposed industrial facilities, waste disposal facilities, mineral extraction 42 Extraction developments, or other developments that may have a significant impact on surface water quality, ground water quality, or on the water table, the developer will be required (whether as part of an EIS or an Environmental Report) to submit an assessment of the impact of the development on water quality and the water table; mitigatory and monitoring measures should also be included, as appropriate.

Development proposals that could cause pollution, a reduction in biological or chemical water quality or changes in the water table will not be accepted unless appropriate mitigatory measures are proposed, such as settlement ponds, oil and chemical interceptors, bunding of storage tanks and refuelling areas, capping where ground water is exposed as a result of extraction etc.

Adverse effects from these types of developments include metal and fuel pollution, sedimentation, and dewatering of nearby wetlands.

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DEVELOPMENT PLAN STANDARDS LANDSCAPING DCS Landscaping and Site Landscaping is an essential part of the design process and should be considered at the 43 Design earliest stage of site design. Landscaping Plans will be required to residential development including single-family dwelling houses, residential institutions, schools, business parks etc. Landscaping Plans should provide for:

-The creation of a coherent landscaping scheme appropriate to the type and scale of development and its surroundings -The creation of paths through significant areas of open space -The retention of any existing valuable features including trees, hedgerows, ponds, and areas of wildlife or ecological value -The use of native trees, shrubs and Plants in the Planting schedules, Planting schedules which include invasive species will not be accepted (a schedule of invasive species is included in appendix x) -The linking up of site landscaping with adjacent open spaces, green spaces, foot or cycle paths; or linking up site landscaping with adjacent linear landscape features such as lines of trees or hedgerows -The use of Planting belts to absorb developments into the landscape, taking account of important views -The creation of a pleasant environment for users, including sunny and shady areas. - The screening of development from neighbouring properties and from public roads for privacy

Earthen berms in combination with Planting belts are favoured to screen commercial developments such as quarries, waste disposal facilities or other large developments from the surrounding landscape. The use of landscaping elements is fundamental to the successful absorption of a development into a rural landscape and the retention of the rural character of the countryside. Appendix 8 lists the following: Invasive Species Native Plants

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DEVELOPMENT PLAN STANDARDS DCS44 Hedgerows Hedgerows define rural landscapes and are valuable for terrestrial forms of wildlife. They are particularly important for birds and woodland plants. They provide commuting and feeding corridors for bats. Where they are found in settlements they are significant habitats and corridors for biodiversity. While originally planted by farmers to provide stock proof field boundaries their principal value to farming now, lies in their value as shelter for animals and reservoir of invertebrates which assist pollination and pest control.

Good hedgerows can easily be identified by their structure and location in the landscape. They will have a few mature trees, a three tier structure (with trees, shrubs and herbs) few gaps and will not have been cut into a box shape. Shrubs (almost always) include hawthorn, blackthorn or and possibly dog rose. The herb layer is found under the shrub layer. It should form a strip of tall grassland along the margin of the hedgerow.

Best quality hedgerows will have all these characteristics. They will also be found running along a townland boundary (confirming greater antiquity), adjacent to a drainage ditch and connected to other types of rare semi-natural habitats. There is a particular value in retaining hedgerows which provide corridors for wildlife between high value biodiversity areas dominated by similar habitats (designated and undesignated) and such areas and an urban environment. Poor quality hedgerows will only have a shrub layer dominated by hawthorn, and will probably have been cut regularly into a box shape.

The objective should be to retain a connected network of good quality hedgerows which has a sustainable function within new development, whether a one off house or estate. Developers should be informed of the value of hedgerows as green infrastructure (landscape, biodiversity, shelter, supporting services to agriculture/horticulture) and given advice on ways to incorporate them in new development. Boundary hedgerows should always be retained unless they need to be removed for reasons of public safety. Within the development site a hedgerow could be integrated into the layout of a new linear feature such as a road/ pedestrian/cycle track.

Retained hedgerows, or parts of hedgerows could be incorporated into new landscaped shrubberies or woodlands. Depending on the potential risks of anti-social activity or requirements for a more garden look the margins of these new hedgerows/cum woodlands/new shrubberies could be planted with colourful non natives (for amenity) or spiny shrubs to deter vandals. By occasionally mowing the grass margin of hedgerows (or part of it) they will look managed. As litter will accumulate in long grass along their margins arrangements will have to be made to carry out regular clean ups.

Encouragement should be given to develop a new linear feature of biodiversity value such as a hedgerow or dry stone wall, particularly if this type of habitat is found adjacent to the development site. To assist in maintaining and enhancing local biodiversity it is preferable to use native tree and shrub species similar to those found in adjacent hedgerows.

If hedgerows are being removed developers should be reminded of their obligations under the Wildlife Acts. not to remove or interfere with them during the bird nesting season, between March 1st and 31st August.

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DEVELOPMENT PLAN STANDARDS DCS45 Drainage Ditches Drainage ditches (FW4) are green infrastructure features which provide for flood attenuation and support aquatic and semi-aquatic forms of wildlife. They were developed by farmers through deepening a small watercourse or excavating of a new channel beside a field boundary.

Together with all other watercourses and wetlands (FL, FS and type habitats) they are important habitat for aquatic species, support connectivity and provide for flood attenuation. Drainage ditches which form part of the catchment of rivers which hold salmon and trout and are adjacent to hedgerows are most valuable as they are most biodiverse and may even support young fish. Poor quality drainage ditches do not hold water all year or have water of poor quality.

The objective should be to retain a connected network of drainage ditches to manage flooding as flooding incidents are likely to increase. Developers should be informed of their value as green infrastructure (landscape, biodiversity, flood attenuation) and given advice on ways to incorporate them in new development.

Drainage ditches should be retained, by ensuring that their water source is protected, its quality does not deteriorate, culverting does not occur and new development does not drastically alter the physical environment within 5m. Culverting is the main threat to drainage ditches. Spatial planning should attempt to integrate drainage ditches into new designs. A drainage ditch could be integrated into the layout of new linear features such as a road/ pedestrian/cycle track /hedgerow or redeveloped as an amenity area. Drainage ditches could become amenity areas through re-profiling and landscaping to expand their extent. Landscaping should involve native species, particularly those occurring locally to maximise biodiversity and amenity values. Suitable trees along their margins are willow and alder. As water is usually considered an attractive amenity the layout should allow for safe and sustainable access.

In large scale developments drainage ditches could be enlarged to become the nuclei of Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems. If used as receiving waters for surface water drainage, or SUDS, monitoring should occur to ensure no deterioration occurs. Particular care needs to be taken when construction is occurring nearby. Native species of wetland plants should be planted in SUDS to maximise their biodiversity value. If a barrier is required around a drainage ditch, spiny shrubs (hawthorn, blackthorn) should be planted. If a fence is erected a type should be chosen, c3m from the ditch, which would allow for the movement of small mammals.

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DEVELOPMENT PLAN STANDARDS DCS46 Woodlands and Trees Woodlands (all WD and WN type habitats) are distinguished by the dominance of trees growing at least 5m tall. A similar type habitat, scrub (WS) is dominated either by small trees or shrubs which generally do not grow taller than 5m. Treelines (WL2) are lines of trees < 5m wide. Development should generally avoid these types of habitats as all forms of woodlands, most forms of shrubbery and mature trees are important habitats for birds, invertebrates, mammals and native plants.

Badger setts may be present in woodland or scrub and bats may be roosting in old trees. Best trees for biodiversity are native species, particularly if are old and their trunks have furrows and cracks.

Developers should be informed of the value of woodlands and trees as green infrastructure (landscape, biodiversity, carbon sink, shelter for animals, potential commercial value, source of fuel and food for people) and given advice on ways to incorporate them in new development. A retained woodland or mature tree provides a readymade landscaped feature of potential amenity value around which a new natural type landscape could be created. If development occurs adjacent to a woodland usage of the woodland is likely to increase. This implies that sustainable and safe access should be provided to minimise disturbance to key features of wildlife value i.e. possible badger ƐĞƚƚ͘ĞƐƚĂĚǀŝĐĞŝƐƚŽƵƐĞĞǆŝƐƚŝŶŐĂĐĐĞƐƐƌŽƵƚĞƐ͘ƚĞŵƉƚĂƚŝŽŶƚŽ͞ƚŝĚǇǁŽŽĚůĂŶĚ͟ďǇ removing dead wood should be avoided as this is an important habitat for invertebrates and fungi. By mowing the grass margin of the woodland occasionally the retained woodland will look managed. As litter may accumulate due to usage, arrangements will have to be made to carry out regular clean ups.

In a large site there may be options to locate new development within a woodland or scrub in less valuable parts. Least valuable parts are likely to be in a part of the woodland which was not covered in woodland in the mid 19th century (check 1st ed OS map), on the north side of woodland as this colder side is less valuable for invertebrates, on its margin (to minimise disturbance to woodland wildlife which is richer in the interior ) and areas that contain non native trees (as these are less valuable than natives). Care needs to be taken that development will not unduly cause fragmentation; creation of gaps between blocks of woodland which will affect commuting routes used by wildlife such as bats or small mammals.

If mature trees are being felled replanting should take place elsewhere on the site to assist the development of a native woodland or scrub. Measures should be taken to protect bats if trees scheduled for felling are suspected of having bat roosts. No disturbance should occur during the bird nesting season between March 1st and 31st August.

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DEVELOPMENT PLAN STANDARDS DCS47 Grasslands Grasslands are divided into intensively managed and semi natural types. The majority of grasslands are the intensively managed types such as GA1 (Improved agricultural grassland) found on farms and GA2 (Amenity grassland improved) in amenity areas and gardens. The former have an important provisioning function as they are the principal grasslands on farms. Semi-natural grasslands (GS1,2,3 and 4) are rare and valuable for wildlife. Their soils are less disturbed. They support more native plant species and thus more biodiversity in their soils and vegetation. Visually they are more attractive than GA types. Wet grasslands (GS4) function as flood attenuation areas. As Green Infrastructure features semi natural grasslands are also important for food production.

As GA2 grassland is extremely common there is no particular priority to protect all examples of this habitat. Within areas dominated by GA1 and GA2 hedgerow and drainage ditch management should be examined as these may be the only habitats of value in the vicinity of these types of grassland. Ideally development should avoid causing any direct or indirect negative impacts on these types of semi-natural grasslands. Developers should be informed of their value as Green Infrastructure. Reseeding or drainage should not occur. If such grasslands are removed efforts should be made to replace them by creating similar environmental conditions and seeding such sites with seeds collected by hand from habitat areas being removed. Semi-natural grasslands could become features in new amenity areas/gardens. No ploughing, drainage or reseeding should occur. Ideally these grasslands should only be mown after seed is set and cuttings removed. By mowing the margin of the grassland regularly the retained grassland will look like a managed feature.

DCS48 Peatlands Peatlands include a range of habitats all of which share the characteristic of having a soil principally composed of peat. An easy way of determining its presence in a field is to excavate a small hole in the ground. A peat based soil will lack any grit.

Peat soils may be deep or shallow, dry or wet. They are associated with natural to semi- natural habitats such as heaths (HH types with a shallow peat layer), bogs (PB types with deeper peat fed principally by rainwater) and fens (PF types wetlands where peat is laid down under the influence of groundwater or flowing surface water). Some peatland types are articularly rare and are associated with a unique flora. Extensive peatlands will be important for nesting birds. As Green Infrastructure, most peatlands support a low intensity farming system. They are important for local and regional flood attenuation and function as carbon sinks thus mitigating for climate change. Large extensive peatlands have particular landscape values and could be amenity areas of high recreational value. Ideally development should avoid having any direct or indirect negative impacts on all peatlands. Developers should be informed of their value as Green Infrastructure. The most significant negative impacts arise through interference with hydrology.

In an area where there is an extensive cover of peatland there may be options to allow development within less valuable areas. Least valuable areas are likely to have a long history of drainage or burning, be located on its margin (to minimise disturbance to wildlife and hydrology) and not involve the removal of substantial amounts of vegetation or peat. Care should be taken that development does not cause further fragmentation of peatland habitats. Mitigation could involve the redevelopment of the local drainage network to raise the water table in their vicinity.

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DEVELOPMENT PLAN STANDARDS DCS Sustainable Urban Surface water run-off is managed as close to its source as possible in line with the 49 Drainage Systems following drainage hierarchy to minimise the loading of urban storm water drainage systems and reduce flood risk:

-Store rainwater for later use (rainwater harvesting) -Use infiltration techniques such as porous hard surfaces, soft landscaping and green roofs -Attenuate rainwater in ponds, swales or open water features for gradual release -Attenuate rainwater by storing in tanks or sealed water features for gradual release -Discharge into storm water collection system or watercourse (subject to license) having regard to capacity and quality of discharge

Soakaways are suitable for single family dwelling houses but are not suitable for urban areas.

AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT DCS GENERAL Agricultural developments have the potential to impact on the environment and the 50 CONSIDERATION landscape. The traditional form of agricultural buildings is disappearing with the onset of advanced construction methods and wider range of materials. Some new farm buildings have the appearance of industrial buildings and due to their scale and mass can have serious major visual impacts.

Design of Agricultural Buildings In the construction and layout of agricultural buildings the Council will require that buildings be sited as unobtrusively as possible and that the finishes and colour used will blend the development into its surroundings. The proposed developments shall meet with the requirements of the Department of Agriculture with regard to storage and disposal of waste. The Council accepts the need for agricultural buildings and associated works (walls, fences, gates, entrances, yards, etc) to be functional but they will be required to be sympathetic to their surroundings in scale, material and finishes. Buildings should relate to the landscape. Traditionally this was achieved through having the roof a darker colour than the walls. Appropriate roof colours are dark grey, dark reddish brown or a very dark green. Where cladding is used on the exterior of the farm buildings dark colours should be used.

All agricultural buildings should be located an adequate distance from any watercourse to reduce the risk of contamination.

DCS Design of Agricultural In the construction and layout of agricultural buildings the Council will require that 51 Buildings buildings be sited as unobtrusively as possible and that the finishes and colour used will blend the development into its surroundings. Appropriate roof colours are dark grey, dark reddish brown or a very dark green. Where cladding is used on the exterior of the farm buildings dark colours should be used.

The proposed developments shall meet with the requirements of the Department of Agriculture with regard to storage and disposal of waste.

The Council accepts the need for agricultural buildings and associated works (walls, fences, gates, entrances, yards, etc) to be functional but they will be required to be sympathetic to their surroundings in scale, material and finishes. Buildings should relate to the landscape. Traditionally this was achieved through having the roof a darker colour than the walls.

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DEVELOPMENT PLAN STANDARDS ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS DCS Major Accident Unlike the earlier Seveso 1 Directive (82/501/EEC), Seveso II includes provisions in relation 52 Directive, Seveso II to land use Planning. Article 12 of the Directive requires Member States to ensure that the objectives of preventing major accidents and limiting the consequences of such accidents are taken into account in land use policies and/or other relevant policies. These objectives must be pursued through controls on the following: The siting of new establishments. Modifications to existing establishments. Development in the vicinity of an establishment, which, by virtue of its type or siting, is likely to increase the risk or consequences of a major accident.

Article 12 of the Directive provides that appropriate consultation procedures must be put in place so as to ensure that, before decisions are taken, technical advice is available to Planning Authorities in respect of relevant establishments.

Such technical advice will be taken into account in the consideration of any such application for Planning permission.

DCS Environmental In compliance with E.U. Directives, Environmental Impact Statements 53 Impact Assessment (E.I.S.) are required for projects which are likely to have significant affects on the ĞŶǀŝƌŽŶŵĞŶƚ͘͘/͘^͛͘ƐĂƌĞŽďůŝŐĂƚŽƌǇĨŽƌĐĞƌƚĂŝŶŵĂũŽƌĚĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚƐ and may be required for a wide range of other developments. The E.U. (E.I.A.) Regulations, 1989-99, specify the ƚǇƉĞƐŽĨĚĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚĂŶĚƚŚƌĞƐŚŽůĚůĞǀĞůƐĨŽƌǁŚŝĐŚ͘/͘^͛͘ƐĂƌĞƌĞƋƵŝƌĞĚ͘dŚĞƉƵƌƉŽƐĞŽĨ E.I.A. is to ensure that the environmental effects of a development are properly considered along with, for example, the social and economic aspects of development. An Integrated Pollution Control Licence (IPCL) may also be required.

The Planning and Development Act 2000 and Regulations 2001 define the developments which are subject to an EIA and may require an EIS. The Planning Authority also have the discretion under Planning & Development Regulations 2001 in circumstances where other developments would in its opinion be likely to have significant effects on the environment, to request an applicant to submit an E.I.S. with a Planning application.

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DEVELOPMENT PLAN STANDARDS DCS 54 Sustainable Design and The Council encourages the use of sustainable design and construction techniques for all development works. Construction Sustainable design and construction techniques may be considered during each stage in the life-cycle of a building: site selection, sourcing of materials, building and open space design, appliance specifications, workmanship and maintenance, re-use, demolition or restoration. The methodology and details associated with the sustainable construction and use of buildings is complex, is undergoing rapid change and technological advancement. Although some technical elements below are administered by way of Building Control regulations, some are suitable for administration under the Planning Law. Proposed developments for over 100 housing units or for commercial or retail floorspace exceeding 2000 sq metres shall be accompanied by a sustainability statement which will evaluate the proposals under the following headings: Land use efficiency x Re-use of buildings; re-use of brownfield sites; efficient use of land generally, reduce building footprints, compact development of lands in proximity to sustainable transport nodes, commercial services and municipal infrastructure Reduction in water consumption and surface water generation x Rainwater and greywater harvesting systems; x use sanitary goods with water-efficient settings; x minimising and delaying surface runoff by using green roofs, permeable hardstandings, water features or increasing proportion of open space devoted to soft landscaping Reduction in energy consumption x Siting buildings in wind-sheltered locations, away from cold air pockets, in locations that benefit from good sunshine; x orientating buildings and arranging windows to maximise solar gain and natural light balanced against the need for shade and comfortable spaces; x careful working of internal spaces positioning rooms such as kitchen-dining rooms or cafeterias in areas that benefit from good sunlight and positioning offices and bedrooms in more shaded locations; x Constructing thermally massive walls that are super-insulated with thermal breaks, use windows with low-E values; x use of energy efficient lighting systems; x use A-rated white goods, harness sustainable energy by using solar tubes, photovoltaic panels, geothermal energy systems, wind turbines; x installation and maintenance of high performance stoves or boilers that use timber or pellets from sustainable sources, combined heat and power units (CHP), create air-tight buildings with heat recovery ventilation systems; x reduction in noise and light pollution; avoidance of micro-climatic effects such as the creation of wind tunnels in urban environments x Consideration of green house gas emissions, sustainable and local materials, and embodied energy Recycling of building materials; x use of sustainable and low-toxicity materials that are reclaimable, recyclable or rotatable such as sheep wool or straw bale insulation, lime-mortars, natural slate roofs in order to reduce waste and avoid Sick Building Syndrome; x preference for materials with low embodied energy such as locally sourced timber-framed buildings, windows and fascia boards over concrete structures, uPVC windows and box fascias; x ͞ůůĚĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚƐŵƵƐƚĚĞŵŽŶƐƚƌĂƚĞƚŚĂƚƚŚĞǇŚĂǀĞĐŽŶƐŝĚĞƌĞĚƚŚĞĞŵďŽĚŝĞĚKϮŽĨƚŚĞŵĂƚĞƌŝĂůƐ they have chosen. Examples would be choosing low carbon concrete, or choosing insulation with lower embodied CO2, or choosing timber from sustainable sources (with reduced embodied CO2) or choosing materials that can be easily recycled (which reduces their lifecycle embodied CO2). Those developments that demonstrate a greater commitment to reducing embodied CO2 will receive more favourable ĐŽŶƐŝĚĞƌĂƚŝŽŶĚƵƌŝŶŐƚŚĞƉůĂŶŶŝŶŐƉƌŽĐĞƐƐ͘͟ x construction of carbon neutral buildings; use of native species that thrive without high fertiliser or pesticide inputs in landscaping Plans and the use of trees in order to sequester carbon Reduction in Waste Generation x Provision of sufficient space for the storage, separation and composting of waste; x preparation of waste management Plans related to major construction works; x preparation of end-of-life dismantling or restoration Plans; use of anaerobic digesters; x low input municipal wastewater treatment systems; x in rural areas, maintenance of septic tanks and where appropriate, installation of ecological sewerage treatment systems such as reed bed systems that do not require mechanical or electrical inputs. Support Ecology and Biodiversity The incorporation of ecologically friendly elements into landscaping Plans for public open space to commercial, civic or residential development is encouraged such as: x the ornamental use of log piles or wood pyramids to function as micro-climates for invertebrates x the use of seed, fruit or berry bearing species for birds and butterflies x the avoidance of pollen-free Plant varieties for bees and butterflies x the provision of bird and bat boxes for nesting and roosting. x the provision of artificial ponds or wetlands areas can form part of SUDS, as well as providing an opportunity for aquatic flora and fauna x create new ecological linkages or stepping stones such as green verges to footpaths, hedgerows, tree belts, ditches, green roofs etc

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DEVELOPMENT PLAN STANDARDS RECREATIONAL DEVLOPMENTS DCS Development The Council will normally only permit proposals for development associated with water 55 Associated with sports adjacent to inland lakes and waterways where all the following criteria are met: Water Sports ͻ dŚĞ ƉƌŽƉŽƐĞĚ ĨĂĐŝůŝƚŝĞƐ ĂƌĞ ĐŽŵƉĂƚŝďůĞ ǁŝƚŚ ĂŶǇ ĞǆŝƐƚŝŶŐ ƵƐĞ ŽĨ ǁĂƚĞƌ͕ ŝŶĐůƵĚŝŶg non recreational uses; ͻ/ƚǁŝůůŶŽƚƌĞƐƵůƚŝŶĚĂŵĂŐĞƚŽƐŝƚĞƐŽĨŶĂƚƵƌĞĐŽŶƐĞƌǀĂƚŝŽŶ ŝŵƉŽƌƚĂŶĐĞŽƌĨĞĂƚƵƌĞƐ ŽĨ archaeological and built heritage; ͻ dŚĞ ĚĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚ ĐĂŶ ďĞ ƐĂƚŝƐĨĂĐƚŽƌŝůǇ ŝŶƚĞŐƌĂƚĞĚ ŝŶƚŽ ƚŚĞ ůĂŶĚƐĐĂƉĞ Žƌ ƚŽǁŶƐĐĂƉĞ surroundings; ͻdŚĞĚĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚǁŝůůŶŽƚŚĂǀĞĂŶƵŶĂĐĐĞƉƚĂďůĞŝŵƉĂĐƚŽŶǀŝƐƵĂůĂŵĞŶŝƚǇĞƐƉĞĐŝĂůůǇŝŶ areas of Special Development Control, or other locally important scenic areas; and ͻdŚĞĚĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚǁŝůůŶŽƚƌĞƐƵůƚŝŶƚŚĞŽǀĞƌŝŶƚĞŶƐŝĨŝĐĂƚŝŽŶŽĨƵƐĞůĞĂĚŝŶŐƚŽƉŽůůƵtion, excessive noise and nuisance.

DCS Floodlighting of Applications for the floodlighting of sports pitches, tourist attractions or other high-order 56 recreational facilities structures will be carefully considered and will indicate horizontal and vertical luminance levels (lux levels)of the fixtures and include details of when the lighting are to be used. Floodlights are to have fully-shielded light fixtures with cowl accessories to ensure that upward light emittance is low.

Street lighting schemes to residential areas and public open spaces should be modest in scale, with fixture designs that limit upward or horizontal light, in order to create safe environments, while limiting glare and enhancing efficiency.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DCS Community As a general principle the location and provision of Community Development facilities is a 57 Development pre-requisite to the enhancement of viable, enjoyable, sustainable and attractive local communities. In assessing Planning applications for leisure facilities, sports grounds, playing fields, play areas, community halls, organisational meeting facilities, medical facilities, childcare facilities new school provision and other community orientated developments, regard will be taken of considerations such as:- Overall need in terms of necessity, deficiency, and opportunity to enhance or develop local facilities. Practicalities of site location in terms of site location, uses, impact on local amenities, desirability, and accessibility. Conformity with the requirements of appropriate legislative guidelines: such as childcare and education facilities.

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DEVELOPMENT PLAN STANDARDS DCS Access for People Where buildings are intended for public access they should be accessible to people with a 58 with Disabilities disability and their facilities should be so designed as to accommodate people with a disability without difficulty. Part M of the Building Regulations 2000 aims to ensure that buildings should be accessible and usable by everyone. Dwellings should be designed and constructed so that: People with disabilities can safely and conveniently approach and gain access; People with disabilities can have access to the main habitable room. At this level, it is considered adequate to provide for access to habitable rooms on the storey containing the main living room; At entry level a WC should be provided, or where there are no habitable rooms at entry level, in the storey containing the main living room, with adequate provision for access and use of the WC by people with disabilities, and Design consideration for public buildings and areas should include the provision of tactile surfaces, new technologies and appropriate signage light and symbols as well as appropriate hierarchy of lighting to meet different types of accessibility issues. When access is being Planned for people with disabilities it should be through the same entrance as others. Access considerations will be extended to the public realm with the position of street furniture and other elements being assessed on an ongoing basis. The sitting of street furniture such as bins etc. should be where it does not substantially reduce the width of pavement available.

DCS Telecommunications To facilitate the evaluation of development proposals for the erection of antennae and 59 support structures, applicants/developers/operators will be required to: submit a reasoned justification as to the need for the particular development at the proposed location in the context of the operators overall Plans to develop a network in County Laois ; indicate what other sites or locations in the County were considered; submit evidence of consultations, if any, with other operators with regard to the sharing of sites and/or support structures; submit proposals to mitigate the visual impact of the proposed development including the construction of access roads, additional poles and structures, and; furnish a statement of compliance with the International Radiation Protection Association (IRPA) Guidelines (Health Physics, Vol. 54, No. 1(Jan) 1988) or the equivalent European Prestandard 50166-2 which has been conditioned by the licensing arrangements with the Department of Transport, Energy and Communications and to furnish evidence that an installation of the type applied for complies with the above Guidelines.

CONSERVATION AND ARCHAEOLOGY DCS General In assessing Planning applications that impact upon this historic character the following 60 general guidelines based upon:

x the Department National Guidelines for Architectural Heritage Protection 2001, x Part IV of the Planning and Development Act 2000, the Architectural Heritage (National Inventory) and Historic Monuments (Miss. Provisions) Act 1999, x Conservation Guidelines Draft 1998, and x the National Monuments Acts 1934 ʹ 1994 shall apply.

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DEVELOPMENT PLAN STANDARDS DCS Protected Structures The following information is required to be submitted with each application for 61 and other Buildings permission for restoration, refurbishment, demolition development or change of use:- of Significant Heritage Interest An Architectural Assessment Report as per the Architectural Heritage Protection: 'ƵŝĚĞůŝŶĞƐĨŽƌWůĂŶŶŝŶŐƵƚŚŽƌŝƚŝĞƐ͟;ϮϬϬϰͿĞƉĂƌƚŵĞŶƚŽĨƚŚĞŶǀŝƌŽŶŵĞŶƚ͕,ĞƌŝƚĂŐĞĂŶĚ Local Government,

A comprehensive schedule of proposed work that follows the guidelines set out in the ƌĐŚŝƚĞĐƚƵƌĂů,ĞƌŝƚĂŐĞWƌŽƚĞĐƚŝŽŶ͗'ƵŝĚĞůŝŶĞƐĨŽƌWůĂŶŶŝŶŐƵƚŚŽƌŝƚŝĞƐ͟;ϮϬϬϰͿĞƉĂƌƚŵĞŶƚ of the Envionment, Heritage and Local Government.

DCS Architectural The requirements for Planning application documentation and for their subsequent 62 Conservation Areas assessment are set out in the ͞ƌĐŚŝƚĞĐƚƵƌĂů,ĞƌŝƚĂŐĞWƌŽƚĞĐƚŝŽŶ͗'ƵŝĚĞůŝŶĞƐĨŽƌWůĂŶŶŝŶŐ ƵƚŚŽƌŝƚŝĞƐ͟ ;ϮϬϬϰͿ ĞƉĂƌƚŵĞŶƚ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ŶǀŝƌŽŶŵĞŶƚ͕ ,ĞƌŝƚĂŐĞ ĂŶĚ >ŽĐĂů 'ŽǀĞƌŶŵĞŶƚ͕ available http://www.environ.ie/en/Publications/Heritage/ArchitecturalHeritage/. Further refinement in respect of development control policies will be provided through subsequent special Planning Control Schemes detailing relevant development requirements for each designated area. The overall guiding principle is not restrictive but positive enhancement of unique qualities that make a place special because of its particular character.

DCS Archaeological ͞Zones of Archaeological potential are shown in Section 14.9 - Ƶŝůƚ ,ĞƌŝƚĂŐĞ͟- Natural 63 Investigations Heritage. There are also archaeological implications outside of these areas. In general the ĨŽůůŽǁŝŶŐ ŐƵŝĚĞůŝŶĞƐ ǁŝůů ĂƉƉůǇ͘ ĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚƐ ǁŚŝĐŚ ŝŵƉĂĐƚ ŽŶ ƚŚĞ ŽƵŶƚǇ͛Ɛ archaeological record will be treated as follows:

The archaeological remains of potentially significant sites within the Zone of Archaeological Potential will be preserved or investigated;

Outside of the Zone of archaeological Potential where in the opinion of the Planning Authority developments involve major ground disturbances, particularly in the vicinity of known monuments, Planning conditions in relation to archaeology may also be applied;

The Council will require that archaeological investigation be undertaken prior to the commencement of development. All such investigations must be undertaken by a qualified archaeologist in consultation with Laois County Council and the Office of Public Works;

When deciding to grant permission for developments within the Zone of Archaeological Potential, the Council may impose conditions which render the developer liable for the cost of the archaeological investigation or the preservation of the archaeological record;

Conditions may be imposed which modify the development, in order to facilitate the archaeological investigation or preserve the archaeological record.

Developers will be encouraged to supply an archaeological assessment and a method statement outlining construction procedures as part of their Planning application. This is intended to facilitate assessment of the proposal.

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DEVELOPMENT PLAN STANDARDS MISCELLANEOUS DCS Requirements and Contributions towards expenditure by the County Council for works, including 64 Contribution for expenditure on roads, water and drainage schemes, open spaces and other amenities, Parking, Sanitary which facilitate development, will be required. The Planning Authority may grant Services and Amenity exemption from contribution in respect of: Churches, community halls, development for public social purposes, provision of sporting facilities (excluding licensed premises attached to clubhouses) and extensions to dwellings; Renovation, to a high standard of a protected structure or other building of architectural ŝŶƚĞƌĞƐƚĐƵƌƌĞŶƚůǇŝŶƉŽŽƌĐŽŶĚŝƚŝŽŶ͕ƉƌŽǀŝĚĞĚƚŚĞƌĞŶŽǀĂƚŝŽŶŝƐĨĂŝƚŚĨƵůƚŽƚŚĞďƵŝůĚŝŶŐ͛Ɛ design and period.

The details and basis for the determination of the contributions are set out in a Development Contribution Scheme in accordance with the provision of section 48 of the Planning and Development Act 2000- 2010 as amended. DCS Undergrounding and In new housing and in other forms of urban development, all services including E.S.B., 65 Concealing of telephone and television cables shall be placed underground. Service buildings or Services structures should be sited as unobtrusively as possible and must be screened. Care should also be given to the treatment of maintenance boxes, electrical boxes and bin storage on facades so that such items are concealed as unobtrusively as possible. DCS Required Distances Proposals to develop in close proximity to existing or proposed sewerage treatment 66 from Sewerage Plants and pumping stations will be assessed having regard to: Treatment Works ͻdŚĞŶĂƚƵƌĞŽĨƚŚĞĞĨĨůƵĞŶƚďĞŝŶŐƚƌĞĂƚĞĚ͖ ͻWƌĞǀĂŝůŝŶŐǁŝŶĚĚŝƌĞĐƚŝŽŶ͖ ͻEŽŝƐĞ͖ ͻdǇƉĞŽĨƚƌĞĂƚŵĞŶƚƉƌŽĐess employed; ͻ^ůƵĚŐĞƚƌĞĂƚŵĞŶƚ͖ ͻsŝƐŝďŝůŝƚǇĂŶĚƐĐƌĞĞŶŝŶŐŽĨƚƌĞĂƚŵĞŶƚWůĂŶƚ

Development will not be allowed within 100m of a treatment works or 25m of a pumping station. This distance may be increased if significant environmental issues are likely to arise and will be judged on a site by site basis. The buffer area may be used to fulfil open space requirements. DCS Flood Risk The following key requirements for the management of development in areas at risk of 67 Management flooding shall apply: Measures All development proposals within or incorporating areas at moderate to high risk of flooding will require the application of the development management justification test in ĂĐĐŽƌĚĂŶĐĞǁŝƚŚ͞dŚĞWůĂŶŶŝŶŐ^ǇƐƚĞŵĂŶĚ&ůŽŽĚZŝƐŬDĂŶĂŐĞŵĞŶƚ'ƵŝĚĞůŝŶĞƐ͟2009. All development proposals within or incorporating areas at moderate to high risk of flooding will require a site specific and appropriately detailed flood risk assessment. This shall be informed by the Stage 2 Strategic Flood Risk Assessments; Any proposal that is considered acceptable in principle shall demonstrate the use of the sequential approach to inform the site layout and design of development. Proposals shall also demonstrate that mitigation and management measures can be put in place and that the development will not increase flood risk elsewhere. DCS Electric power points Service areas for electric cars should be sited as unobtrusively as possible. Care should 68 for electric cars also be given to the treatment of maintenance boxes, electrical boxes so that such items are concealed as unobtrusively as possible.

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