3 Settlement and Housing Strategy 38 DRAFT DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2022-2028

3.1 Introduction

This chapter sets out the policies The concept of developing a 10 minute and objectives aimed at providing for city/town with a series of neighbourhoods sustainable population growth for Limerick, and vibrant towns and villages, which are in accordance with the Core Strategy, compact, that can support a range of jobs, whilst achieving a balance between services and housing choice, not only social, economic and environmental provide the basis of strong economies and factors. Underpinned by national and communities, but also support a greater regional planning policy, the Housing range of sustainable modes of transport, Strategy, including Housing Need Demand both within and between settlements. The Assessment and Settlement Strategy development of a network of settlements encourages new developments to locate that work together to the benefit of within Limerick City, existing towns and Limerick and all its inhabitants, including villages, where social and infrastructural those in rural areas can only occur in a services are in place, to support planned way. The main tool of achieving development and where services may be this, is a robust Settlement Strategy. A provided or developed in the future. Settlement Strategy is the enabler of growth and sets out the overall approach Place-making, compact growth, active land to development over the lifetime of the management, as well as addressing the Draft Plan, in line with national and regional impact of climate change, are some of the policy guidance. key themes to be considered in terms of the growth strategy for Limerick. There is In order to deliver the ambition set out also the key objective, which is to create in the NPF and the RSES, which is to attractive and liveable environments, where continue to secure economic growth more people will choose to live. In order to and increased productivity in Limerick, deliver compact growth, whilst ensuring a it is essential that there is a clear and high quality of life for residents in Limerick, coherent strategy in place, outlining how it is imperative that the Council protects and where this growth will take place. This and enhances residential amenities, Settlement Strategy seeks to support the through enabling the creation of vibrant, strengthening of Limerick City and Environs, sustainable neighbourhoods. This will be and as Key facilitated through access to good housing Towns and Limerick’s towns and villages. choice, regeneration and revitalisation, The Settlement Strategy seeks to create open space and recreation, a range of attractive living and working environments quality and sustainable transport options that will make Limerick an attractive and appropriate levels of retail, social and location in which to live and work. community infrastructure to support our residential communities. DRAFT 39 Chapter 3: Settlement and Housing Strategy

3.2 National and Regional Policy Context 3.3 Settlement Strategy

One of the NPF’s core principles is to 3.3.1 Introduction ‘ensure a high standard quality of life to The Settlement Strategy sets out the future residents as well as environmentally role of each settlement on the hierarchy, and socially sustainable housing and place- settlement size, population distribution making, through integrated planning and and the pace of growth identified for each consistently excellent design’. The RSES settlement, over the lifetime of the Draft growth strategy employs a robust evidence Plan. The Settlement Strategy provides a based approach, to derive a settlement planning framework for the nature and hierarchy, which identifies locations for location of development and population population and employment growth, with growth over the 6 year life span of the Draft matched consistency and alignment with Plan. national and regional policy. Limerick’s framework for growth is therefore guided The aim of the Settlement Strategy is to and directed by both the NPF and the RSES provide a strong network of settlements, infrastructure and service investment, to which can facilitate the balanced growth of satisfy and accommodate future growth Limerick, over the lifetime of the Draft Plan. needs. The Settlement Strategy will guide where new development should appropriately The Settlement Strategy for Limerick take place in Limerick. The development of focuses on the creation of sustainable settlements will be promoted in a planned communities, including increased density and sustainable manner, whilst seeking to and compact growth, in line with national enhance quality of life for all residents. policy, where appropriate and the provision of a wide range of household types and In order to align with the provisions of the tenures for Limerick. NPF and RSES, the Settlement Strategy and overall vision for Limerick, the Council Policy SS P1 will continue to utilise all policy avenues Settlement Strategy available to it to ensure the optimum It is a policy of the Council to: delivery of residential development over a) Align with the provisions of the the lifetime of the Draft Plan, from both the National Planning Framework and public and private sectors. the Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy for the Southern Region. b) Accord with the Core Strategy set out in Chapter 2: Core Strategy and the Draft Housing Strategy, including the Housing Needs Demand Assessment for Limerick set out in Volume 6 of DRAFT the Draft Plan. c) Seek to promote the creation of sustainable places and healthy communities, while ensuring that development occurs at an appropriate pace and that infrastructure is delivered in tandem to support this growth. 40 DRAFT LIMERICK DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2022-2028

3.3.2 Settlement Hierarchy which correlates with the Core Strategy The settlement hierarchy for Limerick, and is underpinned by a Housing Strategy which is set out in Chapter 2: Core Strategy, and Housing Need Demand Assessment consists of different Levels of settlements (HDNA), as required under the National ranging from small rural villages to larger Planning Framework. towns and Limerick City Metropolitan Area at the top of the hierarchy. Chapter Policy SS P2 2: Core Strategy of the plan also includes Development of Limerick in accordance a methodology on how the settlement with the Settlement Hierarchy hierarchy was determined. Each settlement It is a policy of the Council to develop has an important function at a local level Limerick in accordance with the and some at a regional level, in supporting Settlement Strategy and Hierarchy and jobs, providing services and a mix of to require future residential development housing, as well as acting as a focal point to locate at and be of a scale appropriate for community networks and activities. The to, the settlement and growth levels settlement hierarchy for Limerick has been identified in the Core Strategy. developed to take account of the role and function of each settlement, aligned to the new hierarchical format set out in the RSES,

Table 3.1: Settlement Hierarchy for Limerick

Settlement Hierarchy Settlement Level 1 Limerick City Limerick City and Environs, including and Metropolitan area

Level 2 Key Towns Newcastle West, Kilmallock

Level 3 Towns , , , (> 1400 population)

Level 4 Large Villages , , Ballingarry, , , , Croom, Doon,

(>500 population) Dromcolliher, , Glin, Hospital, , , ,DRAFT ,

Level 5 Small Villages Ardagh, , , , , , Ballyneety, Broadford, , Castlemahon, Clarina, , , Galbally, , New , Kilteely, , Loghill, , Montpelier, , Nicker, Shanagolden, ,

Level 6 Rural Clusters Anglesboro, , Ashford, Ballybrown, Ballyorgan, Ballysteen, Banogue, Caherline, Cappagh, Castletown, , Dromkeen, Elton, Feenagh, , Glenbrohane, Glenosheen, Glenroe, , Kilbeheny, Kilcolman, , Kilfinny, , , Knockainy, Knockdown, Martinstown, Meanus, Monagea, Old Pallas, Raheenagh, Strand

Level 7 Open Countryside 41 Chapter 3: Settlement and Housing Strategy

3.3.3 Overall Settlement Strategy Objective SS O4 Objectives Prevention of Urban Sprawl Development will be encouraged to locate It is an objective of the Council to prevent within the built up footprints of Limerick linear roadside frontage development on City Metropolitan Area, towns and villages roads leading out of towns and villages across Limerick, in accordance with Local in order to retain the identity of towns/ Area Plans, settlement boundaries and in villages, to prevent sprawl and to ensure accordance with zoning objectives and the a distinction in character between built Settlement Strategy set out below. up areas and the open countryside.

Objective SS O1 Objective SS O5 Compact Growth Monitoring Growth It is an objective of the Council to It is an objective of the Council to strengthen the core of settlements and monitor growth patterns and the pace encourage compact growth, through the of growth within individual settlements development of infill sites, brownfield and apply appropriate management lands, under-utilised land/buildings, measures in ensuring compliance vacant sites and derelict sites, within with the Core Strategy. The additional the existing built-up footprint of the households permitted within each settlements and develop outwards from settlement shall not exceed the growth the centre in a sequential manner. identified in the Core Strategy Table in Chapter 3. Objective SS O2 High Quality Design It is an objective of the Council that residential development proposals shall be prepared, designed and laid out, in accordance with the standards as set out in Chapter 11: Development Management Standards and Section 28 Ministerial Guidelines. This includes promoting higher densities, high quality design, layout and public realm for new residential development appropriate to its location and surrounding context, while recognising the need to protect existing residential communities and the established character of the area, to DRAFT which the development will be inserted.

Objective SS O3 Capacity of Town/Village to Absorb Development It is an objective of the Council that development within towns and villages shall be considered on the basis of its connectivity to the existing town/village core, capacity (infrastructural, social, cultural and economic), good design, community gain and proper planning and sustainable development. 42 DRAFT LIMERICK DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2022-2028

3.4 Role of each Settlement

3.4.1 Level 1: Limerick City Metropolitan Policy SS P3 Area including Mungret and Annacotty Level 1 – Growing Limerick City Limerick City and Environs has a population Metropolitan Area, including Mungret of 92,878 (CSO 2016) with a wide range of and Annacotty services, employment, leisure and retail It is a policy of the Council to strengthen facilities of regional significance for the and consolidate Limerick City surrounding catchment area. The NPF Metropolitan Area as a key driver of supports ambitious growth targets to social and economic growth in Limerick enable Limerick City and suburbs to grow and become a vibrant living, retailing and by at least 50% to 2040 and to achieve its working City. In accordance with national potential to become a City of scale. and regional policy it is a requirement that at least 50% of all new homes will The Limerick Shannon Metropolitan Area be located within the existing built-up Strategic Plan, as set out under the RSES, footprint of the settlement, in order to recognises that for the Limerick Shannon deliver compact growth and reduce Metropolitan Area to prosper and develop unsustainable urban sprawl. in a sustainable manner, a strong Limerick City is paramount. As the largest urban Objective SS O6 centre in the Mid-West, focus must be on Limerick City Metropolitan Area the growth in population and employment, It is an objective of the Council to: so that Limerick City can compete a) Promote development which effectively for investment and jobs. To incorporates a high quality, do this, growth must complement and sustainable and inclusive approach consolidate the development of the City to proposals in the City Metropolitan as a whole, to create a compact City region Area, which is supported by with improved supporting infrastructure, sustainable means of travel and public transport improvements to provide which creates locally distinctive linkages to local residential populations and neighbourhoods and positively the provision of high levels of community contributes to the existing built and facilities and amenities. Provision must be natural heritage. made to bring about increased density and b) Promote residential development in height of development within the footprint the historic areas of Limerick City, of developing sustainable mobility transport provided development is consistent corridors and networks. with the architectural integrity and character of the area. DRAFT 43 Chapter 3: Settlement and Housing Strategy

3.4.2 Level 2: Key Town 3.4.3 Level 3: Towns Key Towns are settlements with a strong Towns with population of over 1,400 employment base and a broad range of people will be promoted as secondary services that serve a wide catchment development centres for future population area. They each play a critical role in growth. They provide a wide range underpinning the RSES objectives to ensure of services and their functions are a consolidated spread of growth beyond complementary to the Limerick City the cities to the sub-regional level. It is Metropolitan Area, Newcastle West and envisaged that the Key Towns will be a each other. They also have an important focus for significant growth. regional employment function within their surrounding catchment areas. Acting as The Southern Regional Spatial and Economic important local drivers, Level 3 Settlements Strategy describes the location of Newcastle provide a range of functions for their West as presenting opportunities for future resident population and their surrounding economic development and employment catchments including housing, employment growth. Identified by the RSES as a key town, services and retail and leisure opportunities. Newcastle West will play a critical role in ensuring a consolidated spread of growth These settlements have experienced beyond Limerick City and Suburbs to the varying levels of commuter focused sub-regional level. The RSES also identifies residential expansion, without equivalent its location as an opportunity for future increase in jobs and services. They require economic development and employment consolidation and targeted ‘catch up’ growth and highlights its strong sub-regional investment in services, infrastructure, interdependencies with Listowel, Rathkeale suitable transport options, amenities and and Abbeyfeale. Kilmallock is also a Key local employment, whilst balancing housing Town serving the East of . delivery and focusing on consolidation to become more self-sustaining. In line with Objective SS O7 National Policy Objective 3c, 30% of all new Level 2 – Key Towns Newcastle West homes targeted within Level 3 settlements and Kilmallock shall be within their existing built-up It is an objective of the Council to footprints. promote Newcastle West and Kilmallock as key service centres and to promote Objective SS O9 the sustainable growth of the towns to Level 3 – Towns become self-sufficient settlements and act It is an objective of the Council to as service centres for their inhabitants and monitor and review existing Local Area rural hinterland. At least 30% of all new Plans and prepare new Local Area Plans homes shall be located within the existing for the following settlements: Abbeyfeale, DRAFT built-up footprint of the settlements, in Caherconlish, Castleconnell, Kilmallock order to deliver compact growth and and Rathkeale to align with the Limerick reduce unsustainable urban sprawl. Development Plan on completion and to consolidate the growth of these towns Objective SS O8 and focus policy on ensuring these towns Newcastle West and Kilmallock Local become more self-sufficient, in terms of Area Plans job creation and services. It is an objective of the Council to monitor and review the Local Area Plans for Newcastle West and Kilmallock to align with the Limerick Development Plan 2022 – 2028 on completion, which will recognise the roles of Newcastle West and Kilmallock as Key Towns for growth within Limerick. 44 DRAFT LIMERICK DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2022-2028

Objective SS O10 Objective SS O11 Scale of Development within Level 3 Requirements for Developments within It is an objective of the Council to Level 4 Settlements ensure that the scale of new housing It is an objective of the Council developments, both individually and within these settlements to facilitate cumulatively, shall be in proportion development, subject to compliance with to the pattern and grain of existing the following: development generally. No one proposal a) To ensure that the scale of new for residential development shall housing developments both increase the existing housing stock by individually and cumulatively shall be more than 10 – 15% within the lifetime in proportion to the pattern and grain of the Draft Plan, unless the applicant of existing development. Generally, can demonstrate that the settlement no one proposal for residential has adequate capacity, in terms of both development shall increase the physical and social infrastructure to existing housing stock by more than support additional growth. 10 – 15% within the lifetime of the Draft Plan, unless the applicant can demonstrate that the settlement has 3.4.4 Level 4 Settlements: Large Villages adequate capacity in terms of both These are settlements generally with a physical and social infrastructure to population of over 500 and less than 1,400 support additional growth. persons that cater for the daily and weekly b) The development of these centres needs of their inhabitants and the needs shall provide for serviced sites and of the surrounding wider catchment area. a variety of other house types and Level 4 settlements provide a range of densities as appropriate. employment opportunities and services c) New commercial developments shall appropriate to their size and function, such generally be located within the core as secondary and primary schools, childcare area and shall contribute positively facilities, sports grounds/complexes, to the village urban fabric and libraries, Garda stations, medical centres streetscape. and a good range of local services including d) New community and social facilities shops, pubs, post offices and banks/credit shall be provided in conjunction with unions. residential development as required.

There is considerable variation in the Objective SS O12 settlements from small towns and large Local Area Plans in Level 4 Settlements villages, included in this level in terms of It is an objective of the Council to review scale, character context and infrastructure. existing and prepare new Local Area DRAFT However, all have potential for appropriate Plans for Adare, Askeaton, Croom and levels of growth and consolidation. In line Patrickswell, to align with the Limerick with National Policy Objective 3c, 30% Development Plan 2022 – 2028 on of all new homes targeted within Level 4 completion. settlements shall be within their existing built-up footprints. In order to realise the consolidation of these towns/villages, development will be encouraged to be delivered in a sustainable, sequential manner from the town/village core outwards, while promoting the reuse and redevelopment of vacant and derelict sites and buildings. 45 Chapter 3: Settlement and Housing Strategy

3.4.5 Level 5 – Small Villages Objective SS O14 These are smaller settlements generally Scale of Growth for Level 5 Settlements ranging in population from 150 – 500 It is an objective of the Council to people with a range of infrastructural, social ensure that, generally, no one proposal and community facilities. These settlements for residential development shall be have some essential infrastructure (i.e. larger than 5 – 7 units. A limited increase Council water and/or sewage facilities) and beyond this may be permitted where a range of community infrastructure that demonstrated to be appropriate, provide for convenience and daily needs dependent on the extent of the of the local population and surrounding settlement and the services in place to area. They also provide some small-scale serve growth. employment opportunities and local level community facilities, such as primary schools, churches, local sporting facilities and a community hall. In line with National Policy Objective 3c, 30% of all new homes targeted within Level 5 settlements shall be within their existing built-up footprints.

Objective SS O13 Development within Level 5 Settlements It is an objective of the Council within these settlements to facilitate development, subject to compliance with the following: a) The scale of new residential schemes shall be in proportion to the pattern and grain of existing development and shall be located within the development boundary, thus avoiding ‘leap frogging’ of development and delivering compact growth and providing for the organic and sequential growth of the settlement. Infill and brownfield sites will be the preferred location for new development. In this regard, any DRAFT development shall enhance the existing village character and create or strengthen a sense of identity and distinctiveness for the settlement. b) New commercial developments shall generally only be located within the core area and shall contribute positively to the village streetscape. c) New community and social facilities shall be provided in conjunction with residential development as required. 46 DRAFT LIMERICK DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2022-2028

3.4.6 Level 6 Settlements – Rural Clusters b) Single units or very small-scale Rural Clusters comprise largely of areas commercial or employment with limited essential infrastructure and generating development will be services. They generally have one or more encouraged, provided it is of a scale existing community or other local facilities. appropriate to the village setting, Development within Rural Clusters will the infrastructure has the capacity to be limited to incremental local growth accommodate same and adjoining appropriate to their size and character. It is uses are not adversely affected. anticipated that each cluster can cater for a c) Where there is public sewage and small population increase from their current water infrastructure and where there population base over the period of the Draft is capacity within same, a limited Plan. number of units may be permitted around the core area. In this case, no Objective SS O15 one proposal shall be larger than 3 – 4 Development in Level 6 Settlements houses, depending on the existing It is an objective of the Council to ensure housing stock and the pattern and that: grain of the village. a) Permitted growth will be very small d) Where there is no sewage treatment scale and on an incremental basis plant or limited capacity in the existing and must be reflective of the rural treatment plant, sewage treatment nature of these settlements. New shall generally be by means of developments shall be located within individual treatment systems, subject or contiguous to the core identified for to satisfactory site assessment and each settlement, thus avoiding ‘leap compliance with EPA guidelines. frogging’ of development and shall be designed, to deliver compact growth within the existing villages and provide for the organic and sequential growth of the settlement. Infill and brownfield sites will be the preferred location for new development. DRAFT 47 Chapter 3: Settlement and Housing Strategy

3.5 Serviced Sites in Towns and Villages

To help strengthen and consolidate the Objective SS O16 settlement structure and reverse the Serviced Sites in Towns and Villages decline in Limerick’s towns and villages, without adequate Water Services residential serviced sites will be promoted Infrastructure in the settlements. This objective is It is an objective of the Council to permit reinforced in the Government’s Rural serviced sites in towns and villages Development Policy 2021 – 2025 – Our Rural across Limerick to offer an alternative to Future, which sets out a clear ambition to rural one off housing, where individuals support the regeneration, re-population and can build their house on a Serviced Site, development of rural towns and villages, to in the case where each house is served contribute to local and national economic by an individual on-site wastewater recovery. It aims to enable people to live treatment system, in settlements and work in a high quality environment. where there is insufficient wastewater Residential serviced sites offer a real treatment capacity, the existing alternative to the single one-off rural house, municipal wastewater treatment plant is enabling those who seek the opportunity to not scheduled for upgrade by Irish Water build their own homes to one’s own design, in its current investment plan and there but located in a town or village. is no risk of nuisance or pollution. (Refer to Chapter 11: Development Management The Council will adopt a flexible approach Standards for further information). to proposals for development in all settlements lacking adequate water and The amount and location of these sites sewerage facilities, where such proposals shall be controlled to ensure that they are consistent with the Settlement would not significantly impact on the Hierarchy outlined in Table 3.1 of the Draft fabric and character of the town or village Plan and the obligations of the Council and its sense of identity and place would under environmental and water services be retained. The development would legislation. also need to ensure the definition of a strong urban edge resulting in a clear Serviced sites refer to a number of distinction between the urban area and individual residential plots of not less open countryside. Where Local Area Plans/ than 0.1ha. with access to services such zoning maps exist for towns and villages, as utility connections, footpaths, lighting these sites may only be located on suitable and within walking distance of the town zoned lands with connection to services or village core. The density shall generally if available within the settlement, if no be 10 housing units per hectare. Larger connection is available, exploration of the sites may be required for a dwelling unit Serviced Site Policy can be considered. in excess of 250m2 floor area, to allow DRAFT sufficient space for private amenity, parking and landscaping. Whilst individual house design on serviced sites is encouraged, the overall design of the scheme must be consistent in terms of boundary treatments and landscaping. 48 DRAFT LIMERICK DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2022-2028

3.6 Rural Housing

The NPF and RSES acknowledge that our Objective SS O17 countryside ‘is and will continue to be, a Rural Areas under Strong Urban living and lived-in landscape, focusing on Influence the requirements of rural economies and It is an objective of the Council to rural communities, based on agriculture, consider a single dwelling for the forestry, tourism and rural enterprise, while permanent occupation of an applicant in at the same time avoiding ribbon and the area under Strong Urban Influence, overspill development from urban areas subject to demonstrating compliance and protecting environmental qualities’. with ONE of the criteria below: (1) Persons with a demonstrable The rural development strategy for Limerick economic need to live in the seeks to achieve a balance in terms of particular local rural area; promoting sustainable rural development, • Persons who have never owned which celebrates the vibrancy and a house in the rural area and are vitality of our rural areas and also seeks employed in rural-based activity such to protect the rich heritage, amenity and as farming/bloodstock, horticulture recreational value of the rural landscapes or other rural-based activity, in the and countryside, in line with national and area in which they wish to build or regional policy. Development proposals whose employment is intrinsically will be evaluated in accordance with the linked to the rural area in which provisions of the Sustainable Rural Housing they wish to build, or other persons Guidelines for Planning Authorities, 2005 who by the nature of their work (and any amendment thereof) and Circulars have a functional need to reside SP 05/08 and PL 2/2017. permanently in the rural area close to their place of work (within 10km). The NPF and RSES make a distinction (Minimum farm size shall be 12 between areas under urban influence, i.e. hectares for farming or bloodstock). those within the commuter catchment • The applicant must demonstrate that of cities and large towns and centres of they have been actively engaged in employment, which includes Electoral farming/bloodstock/horticulture or Divisions where at least 15% of their other rural activity, at the proposed workforce commute to a City and rural location for a continuous period areas outside these catchments, where a of not less than 5 years, prior to more flexible approach to rural housing will making the application. In the event apply. of newly acquired land demonstrate that the proposed activity would be Limerick can be divided into two broad of a viable commercial scale, and a categories, in terms of defining the Rural detailed 5 year business plan will be DRAFT Settlement Strategy as follows: required to demonstrate this. • Rural Housing Category 1: Areas under Strong Urban Influence; • Rural Housing Category 2: Rural Areas Elsewhere 49 Chapter 3: Settlement and Housing Strategy

(2) Persons with a demonstrable social Objective SS O18 need to live in a particular local rural Rural Areas Elsewhere area; It is an objective of the Council that to • Persons who have never owned a help stem the decline and strengthen house in the rural area and who wish Rural Areas Elsewhere, in general to build their first home on a site demand for permanent residential that is within 10km of where they development should be accommodated, have lived for a substantial period subject to meeting normal planning and of their lives in the local rural area environmental criteria. (Minimum 10 years). The local rural area is defined as the area outside In all cases the consideration of all settlements identified in Level’s individual sites, for rural housing will 1 – 4 of the Settlement Hierarchy. be subject to normal siting and design Excluding Level 4 settlements, where considerations, which will include, but not there is no capacity in the treatment necessarily be limited to the following: plant. • Any proposed vehicular access would not endanger public safety by giving (3) Persons with a demonstrable local rise to a traffic hazard, exceptional need to live in a particular • That any proposed on-site waste local rural area, examples include: water disposal system is designed, a) Returning emigrants who have located and maintained in a way which never owned a house in the rural protects water quality, area, in which they lived for a • That the siting and design of new substantial period of their lives dwellings takes account of and (Minimum 10 years), then moved integrates appropriately with its away or abroad and who now physical surroundings and other wish to return to reside in the local aspects of the natural and cultural rural area (within 10km of where heritage and, they lived for a substantial period • That the proposed site otherwise of their lives). The local rural area accords with the objectives of the is defined as the area outside all Draft Development Plan in general. settlements identified in Level’s • The Planning Authority shall have 1 – 4 of the Settlement Hierarchy. regard to the viability of smaller Excluding Level 4 settlements, towns and rural settlements in the where there is no capacity in the implementation of the rural housing treatment plant. policy. b) A person who has lived a • Climate action measures shall be substantial period of their lives submitted as part of any proposed DRAFT in the local rural area, (at least application, to support a transition to a 10 years), that previously owned low carbon economy. a home and is no longer in possession of that home due to the home having been disposed of following legal separation/divorce/ repossession and can demonstrate a social or economic need for a new home in the rural area. 50 DRAFT LIMERICK DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2022-2028

Objective SS O19 Refurbishment/Replacement of Traditional Rural Dwellings It is an objective of the Council to seek the retention and sympathetic refurbishment, with adaptation if necessary, of traditional dwellings in the countryside in sympathy with the character of the existing building. This will be encouraged in preference to their replacement. Planning permission will generally 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 and 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.

Objective SS O20 Occupancy Condition It is an objective of the Council to require that any house which is granted planning permission in the rural areas designated ‘Areas under strong urban influence’, will be subject to a requirement of occupancy of seven years by the applicant. DRAFT 51 Chapter 3: Settlement and Housing Strategy

Map 3.1: Rural Housing Map 52 DRAFT LIMERICK DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2022-2028

3.7 Housing Strategy and Housing Need Demand Assessment 3.7.1 Introduction A Draft Housing Strategy and Draft The preparation of a Housing Strategy is HNDA for Limerick has been prepared a mandatory requirement under Part V of and is set out in Volume 6. It provides a the Planning and Development Act 2000, detailed analysis of Limerick’s existing (as amended). The purpose of a Housing housing profile, which forms a basis for Strategy is to evaluate the housing needs housing demand generally and social of the existing and future population in housing provision. The provisions of the Limerick over the Draft Plan period. Draft Housing Strategy will guide new residential developments in terms of the The NPF identified the need to carry out form of housing that may be required within a Housing Need Demand Assessment Limerick over the lifetime of the Draft Plan. (HNDA), in conjunction with the Housing The Draft Housing Strategy and Draft HNDA Strategy, the purpose of which is to addresses the provision of housing for the assist Local Authorities to develop long- existing and future population of Limerick term strategic views of housing need and takes account of: across all tenures, including social and • The existing need and likely future need affordable housing and specialist housing. for housing for the purposes of the The purpose is also to provide a robust provision of social housing support and of evidence base to support decisions about housing for eligible households; new housing supply, wider investment and • The need to ensure that housing is housing related services that inform an available for persons who have different overall housing profile. levels of income; • The need to ensure that a mixture of In tandem with a need to increase housing house types and sizes is developed to supply, is the need to facilitate improved reasonably match the requirements of housing choice to cater for evolving the different categories of households, demographics across Limerick, as analysed as may be determined by the Planning in the HNDA. By providing good housing Authority and including the special choice, existing residents can remain within requirements of older people and their local communities and new residents persons with disabilities; to Limerick will have better housing options • The need to counteract undue to choose from. segregation in housing between persons of different social backgrounds; The Housing Strategy and the HNDA • The provision of good housing mix in process complements the Core Strategy in all developments will be encouraged to providing the quantitative evidence base to ensure that residents have access to a articulate the medium to longer term spatial range of house types and tenures. development strategy of the functional DRAFT area of the Local Authority. In so doing, it demonstrates that the Draft Plan and its objectives are consistent with national and regional development objectives. 53 Chapter 3: Settlement and Housing Strategy

3.7.2 National Policy 3.7.3 Housing Mix Government policy, as per Rebuilding To cater for the projected population growth Ireland - Action Plan for Housing and and the establishment of sustainable Homelessness, 2016, sets out five pillars for residential communities, a mix of dwelling the delivery of housing: types and sizes will be required to meet the • Pillar 1 – Address Homelessness; housing needs of all members of society. • Pillar 2 – Accelerate Social Housing; The HNDA, which informed the Housing • Pillar 3 – Build More Homes; Strategy, identifies the need for a mix of • Pillar 4 – Improve the Rental Sector; house types to reflect the diverse housing • Pillar 5 – Utilise Existing Housing. needs of the existing and future population.

In order to align with the provisions of the Objective HO O1 NPF, RSES and delivery on the five pillars Social Inclusion set out above, the Council will continue to It is an objective of the Council to utilise all policy options available to it, to ensure that new developments are ensure the optimum delivery of residential socially inclusive and provide for a units over the duration of the Draft Plan, wide variety of housing types, sizes and from both the public and private sectors in tenure, throughout Limerick, to cater for the delivery of a mix of tenures. the demands established in the Draft Housing Strategy and the Housing Need Policy HO P1 Demand Assessment. Implementation of the Housing Strategy, including the Housing Need Demands Assessment It is a policy of the Council to facilitate the implementation and delivery of the Draft Housing Strategy and Draft Housing Need Demand Assessment (HNDA) 2022 – 2028, to meet the increasing projected population, changing household size and housing needs, including social and affordable housing requirements for Limerick over the lifetime of the Draft Plan. DRAFT 54 DRAFT LIMERICK DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2022-2028

3.7.4 Residential Density 3.7.5 Protecting Existing Residential A key objective of the NPF and RSES is to Amenity increase the density of development in Residential amenity is influenced by a all built up areas, in order to achieve the range of factors, such as private outdoor indicated population targets in a compact amenity space, privacy and natural light. and sustainable manner. Increased The relationship of buildings to each other densities will facilitate optimising the and their individual design can have a use of serviced lands and maximising significant impact on these factors and on the viability of investment in social and residents’ comfort. In older residential areas, physical infrastructure, in particular public infill development will be encouraged, transport. Integration of land use and while still protecting the existing residential transport planning is crucial to deliver amenity of these areas. the 10 minute city/town concept and this will be supported with higher densities at Objective HO O3 appropriate locations. Residential density Protection of Existing Residential requirements have been set out in Chapter Amenity 2: Core Strategy, in line with national It is an objective of the Council to ensure planning policy and relevant guidelines. a balance between the protection of existing residential amenities, the Objective HO O2 established character of the area and Density of Residential Developments the need to provide for sustainable It is an objective of the Council to: residential development is achieved in all a) Promote, where appropriate, increased new developments. residential density in the exercise of its development management function and in accordance with Table 3.7.6 Re-use of Buildings 2.6 in Chapter 2: Core Strategy and the The existing housing stock of Limerick Sustainable Residential Development provides a valuable resource in terms of in Urban Areas – Guidelines for meeting the needs of a growing population Planning Authorities and the and its retention and management is accompanying Urban Design Manual, of considerable importance. Retaining DEHLG, May 2009. and adapting, as appropriate, including b) Encourage increased densities that encouraging energy retrofitting of the contribute to the enhancement existing housing stock, is important to stem of a town or village by reinforcing population loss in these areas by promoting street patterns or assisting in re- and encouraging additional dwelling units development of backlands and within existing communities, particularly centrally located brownfield sites. those suited to the emerging demographics DRAFT of an area.

Objective HO O4 Re-use of Existing Buildings It is an objective of the Council to encourage redevelopment and reuse, including energy retrofitting, of existing housing stock. 55 Chapter 3: Settlement and Housing Strategy

3.7.7 Apartments 3.7.8 Build-to-Rent Accommodation Just under 10% of households in Limerick Build-to-Rent (BTR) describes the practice live in apartments, according to the 2016 of delivering purpose-built residential Census which is lower than the national rental accommodation and associated average (12%). Apartments are a key and amenity space that is designed with the growing part of the way in which we live in sole purpose of being used as long-term various parts of our country and particularly rental accommodation and professionally in our cities and towns. A move towards a owned and managed. Specific Planning much greater level of apartment living is Policy Requirements (SPPR’s) for Build-To- essential in ensuring our major urban areas Rent (SPPR 7 and 8) set out in the 2020 develop sustainably, rather than sprawling Sustainable Residential Design Standards inexorably outwards. for New Apartments details the specific criteria, which should be considered in the Objective HO O5 delivery of this type of accommodation. Apartments High quality design and amenity shall be It is an objective of the Council to ensured for future residents in terms of encourage an increase in the scale delivery of development of this nature. and extent of apartment development, particularly in proximity to core urban Build-To-Rent accommodation shall centres and other factors including be considered in appropriate locations, existing public transport nodes, or close to amenities and high frequency locations where high frequency public public transport services. BTR will be transport can be provided, close to considered as a key part of achieving an locations of employment and a range appropriate mix of housing, however, an of urban amenities including parks/ overconcentration of such accommodation waterfronts, shopping and other services. type shall not be permitted.

Objective HO O6 Build–To-Rent Accommodation It is an objective of the Council to facilitate the provision of Build-to-Rent Accommodation* in suitable locations in Limerick, in accordance with the provisions of Sustainable Urban Housing: Design Standards for New Apartments (2020). *Subject to SPPR9 - Sustainable Urban Housing: Design Standards for New DRAFT Apartments, 2020. 56 DRAFT LIMERICK DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2022-2028

3.7.9 Shared Accommodation Co-Living 3.7.10 Student Accommodation The updated Sustainable Urban Housing: Students are an increasingly important Design Standards for New Apartments part of the housing demand in Limerick, issued in 2020, revised SPPR 9 stating particularly in Limerick City and Environs. that there shall be a presumption against According to Census 2016, 11,703 residents granting planning permission for shared of Limerick City reported their principle accommodation/co-living development, economic status as students (15.4% of unless the proposed development is either: all those aged 15 and over) as did 8,454 i) Required to meet specific demand residents of Limerick County (5.4%), identified by a Local Planning which includes some secondary-level Authority further to a Housing Need students. The main third level institutions and Demand Assessment (HNDA) in Limerick include University of Limerick, process; or Limerick Institute of Technology and ii) On the date of publication of these Mary Immaculate College, all of which updated Guidelines, a valid planning are seeking to increase student numbers, application has been lodged to a within the lifetime of the Draft Plan, which Planning Authority, appeal to An accordingly will result in increased demand Bord Pleanála, or Strategic Housing for high quality student accommodation. Development (SHD) planning application to An Bord Pleanála, in Objective HO O8 which case the application or appeal Provision of Student Accommodation may be determined on its merits. It is an objective of the Council to support the provision of purpose-built student Objective HO O7 accommodation in appropriate and Shared Accommodation/Co-Living accessible locations and of appropriate It is an objective of the Council to design, in accordance with the National facilitate the provision of Shared Student Accommodation Strategy Accommodation/Co-Living (2017) and any subsequent updates. Accommodation subject to the Applications for change of use from requirements of (i) and (ii) above and in student housing to any other form accordance with SPPR 9 of Sustainable of housing shall be resisted, without Urban Housing: Design Standards for adequate demonstration that an over- New Apartments (2020). provision of student housing exists. DRAFT 57 Chapter 3: Settlement and Housing Strategy

3.7.11 Housing for Older People 3.7.13 Housing for Dependent Relatives Limerick, like the rest of the country has The Council will encourage the provision an ageing population. The Council is of suitable housing for people with a committed to accommodating the needs of sensory disability, mental health disability, older people, by encouraging the provision, physical disability and intellectual disability, of suitable accommodation to allow in appropriate locations served by public older people remain in their established transport, local community services and communities. facilities. All development shall comply with Part M of the Building Regulations or any Objective HO O9 replacement hereafter. Support Housing Options for Older People Objective HO O11 It is an objective of the Council to: Subdivision of Dwelling to a) Support the provision of specific Accommodate Dependent Relative purpose built accommodation, It is an objective of the Council to including assisted living units and facilitate the provision of accommodation lifetime housing and adaptation of for older people and dependant relatives existing properties, which will include within the existing family home, subject opportunities for ‘downsizing’ or ‘right to compliance with the following criteria: sizing’ within their community. • Accommodation by way of extension b) Support the concept of independent shall be attached to the main dwelling; living for older people within their • There shall be an internal connecting community and ensure, where door with the main residence; possible that such accommodation is • The extension shall be subservient to integrated with mainstream housing. the main dwelling; • In a rural location any external door shall not be located on the front 3.7.12 Nursing Home/Care Home elevation; Accommodation • On vacancy of the unit, the Proposals for nursing homes/care home accommodation shall be integrated accommodation shall be located in existing with the main dwelling. No residential areas well served by appropriate such unit shall be used as rental levels of infrastructure and amenities such accommodation. There will be a as footpath networks, local shops and public presumption against proposals for transport. This will ensure appropriate detached independent units within the integration with the local community and curtilage of a dwelling, regardless of afford the residents an appropriate level of urban or rural location. Proposals must independence and access to services. accord with planning considerations DRAFT such as residential amenity, Objective HO O10 environmental and public health Location Criteria for Nursing Homes/ standards and traffic safety. Care Home Accommodation It is an objective of the Council to ensure that the maximum distance from nursing homes/care homes shall be no more than 300m. safe walking distance to community facilities, convenience retail facilities and amenities. 58 DRAFT LIMERICK DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2022-2028

3.7.14 The Living Limerick City Centre 3.7.15 Social Housing Initiative Social housing is defined as housing provided The Living Limerick City Centre initiative by a Local Authority or a housing association, is promoting the concept of community to individuals who are unable to provide housing initiatives that supports the accommodation from their own resources. development of community led housing Property rented or leased from the private proposals for specific cohorts/groups in a sector by Local Authorities or voluntary cost efficient manner. The use of cost rental housing bodies is now also included in the and cost purchase models of delivery will social housing sector. Rebuilding Ireland, an be investigated over the course of the Draft Action Plan for Housing and Homelessness Plan and the expansion of this initiative to (2016) set ambitious targets for the delivery rural towns and villages will be support. of social housing and put in place the mechanisms to support an increase in the Objective HO O12 supply of housing. The Living Limerick City Centre Initiative Objective HO O13 It is an objective of the Council to support Provision of Social Housing the Living Limerick City Centre Initiative It is an objective of the Council to for the delivery of community housing promote the provision of social housing across the City and rural towns and in accordance with the Council’s Draft villages. Housing Strategy, Housing Need Demand Assessment and Government policy as outlined in the DoHPLG Social Housing Strategy 2020 and to ensure that 10% of lands zoned for residential use, or for a mixture of residential and other uses, be reserved for social housing in accordance with the Urban Regeneration and Housing Act 2015 and Part V of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) and any subsequent amendments to the legal requirement to deliver this housing during the lifetime of the Draft Plan.

Part V of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) is one of the means through which Limerick City and County Council can seek to address demand for DRAFT social housing in Limerick. The Council works in partnership with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage and Approved Housing Bodies to deliver and manage social housing. In addition to Part V, the delivery of social housing is achieved through Direct Build, Acquisitions, Void Management, Long Term Leasing, Enhanced Leasing, Repair to Lease, Private Rental (RAS and HAP) and the Buy and Renew Scheme. The Council will promote the provision of public (including social and affordable) housing by prioritising sites for servicing that have a potential for public (including social and affordable) housing. 59 Chapter 3: Settlement and Housing Strategy

3.7.16 Homeless Accommodation 3.7.18 Accommodation for Refugees and The Council will continue to work in Asylum Seekers conjunction with voluntary housing bodies The Council will continue to liaise and and other agencies to provide emergency work with the relevant agencies and accommodation for the homeless and stakeholders in securing appropriate those who find themselves in need of crisis accommodation for refugees and asylum facilities. seekers in appropriate locations throughout Limerick. Objective HO O14 Homeless Accommodation Objective HO O16 It is an objective of the Council to Accommodation for Refugees and support the provision of homeless Asylum Seekers accommodation and/or support services It is an objective of the Council to throughout Limerick. In this regard, implement government policy in relation proposals for such facilities should not to the provision of accommodation for result in an overconcentration in one refugees and asylum seekers. area and should not unduly impact upon existing amenities.

3.7.17 Traveller Accommodation Limerick City and County Council has an adopted Traveller Accommodation Programme, which outlines the accommodation needs, policy and implementation measures to address the accommodation needs of the Traveller Community. The accommodation programme for the period 2019-2024 has been prepared in accordance with the provisions set out in the Housing (Traveller Accommodation) Act 1998. The Council’s Traveller Accommodation Programme sets out the range of social housing supports for Travellers, including standard Local Authority Housing, Approved Housing Body Housing, Group Housing and Halting Site Bays. DRAFT

Objective HO O15 Traveller Accommodation It is an objective of the Council to support the provision of housing suited to the need of the travelling community and implement the Traveller Accommodation Programme 2019- 2024 and any subsequent updates. 60 DRAFT LIMERICK DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2022-2028 DRAFT