Plans to build a new supermarket in Carndonagh have been scrapped after it was deemed a flood risk, it has emerged.
The owners of the site, which was home to the former Kelly’s Supermarket, proposed the demolition of the building in order to construct a new two-story supermarket.
However, plans were turned down by An Bord Pleanála following an initial decision by Donegal County Council to grant permission for the redevelopment to Charles Kelly Properties Ltd.
It is understood that refusal for the supermarket was made after an appeal was lodged by Monbro Developments, with An Bord Pleanála in turn voting against their inspector, who recommended that planning permission should be granted.
In response to their decision, An Bord Pleanála said concerns had been raised over the ‘adequacy of existing flood protection measures on-site and the design, size and layout of the existing culvert located within the ownership of the applicant.”
In August 2017, the area suffered serious flood damage, one of a number of issues why An Bord Pleanála said they made the refusal for the redevelopment.
The main source of flood risk is found at Ballyloskey Stream which traverses the site partly through a culvert.
And despite the applicant’s intention to build a retaining wall and mesh fence beside the existing stream, the independent building body said ‘it was not satisfied that the proposed development would not lead to an increased risk of flooding in the area’.
“Having regard to the guidelines, it is considered that the proposed development would, therefore, be contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area,” An Bord Pleanála concluded.