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Chapter 15 Development Management Standards

Section Topic
15.1 Background 15.1.1 Enforcement
15.1.2 Non-Conforming Uses
15.1.3 Material Contravention
15.1.4 Development Contributions
15.1.5 Environmental Impact Assessment
15.1.6 Appropriate Assessment
15.1.7 Pre-Application Discussions
15.1.8 Bonds
15.1.9 Digitised Planning Applications and ICT
15.2 General 15.2.1 Site Coverage and Plot Ratio
Development 15.2.2 Overlooking / Separation Distances
Standards 15.2.3 Overshadowing
15.2.4 Soft Landscaping
15.2.5 Hard Landscaping
15.2.6 Access to Land
15.2.7 Universal Access / Design
15.3 Design Statements
15.4 Residential 15.4.1 Development Capacity
Development 15.4.2 Development Phasing
15.4.3 Residential Density
15.4.4 Housing Mix
15.4.5 Design, Layout and Boundary Treatments
15.4.6 House Design
15.4.7 Apartment Developments
15.4.8 Build-to-Rent
Shared Accommodation / Co-Living
15.4.9
Developments
15.4.10 Management Companies for Apartments
15.4.11 Purpose Built Student Accommodation
15.4.12 Extensions to Dwellings
Domestic Garage/ Store/ Home-Work Pod /
15.4.13
Garden Room
15.4.14 Family Flat
15.4.15 Naming of Residential Developments
15.4.16 Taking in Charge of Residential Developments
15.5 Social and Community 15.5.1 Social Infrastructure Audit
Developments 15.5.2 Childcare Facilities
15.5.3 Educational Facilities
15.5.4 Health Facilities & Veterinary Clinic
15.5.5 Community Buildings
15.6 Open Space 15.6.1 Active Open Spaces
15.6.2 Neighbourhood / Local Parks
15.6.3 Amenity Green Spaces
Natural / Semi-Natural Green Space and
15.6.4
Green Corridors
15.6.5 Formal / Informal Play Spaces

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Section Topic
Public Open Space for Residential
15.6.6
Development
Private Open Spaces – Gardens, Terraces,
15.6.7
Balconies
15.7 Transport 15.7.1 Walking and Cycling
15.7.2 Cycle Parking
15.7.3 Public Transport
15.7.4 Road and Street Network
15.7.5 Stopping Distances and Sightlines
15.7.6 Access Requirements
15.7.7 Building Lines
15.7.8 Car Parking
15.7.9 Street Lighting and Public Utilities
15.8 Surface Water 15.9.1 Employment Uses
15.9 Employment including 15.9.2 Industry and Warehousing Development
Extractive Industry 15.9.3 Business and Technology Parks
and Agricultural 15.9.3.1 Individual Units in Business and Technology
Buildings Parks
15.9.3.2 Energy Efficiency and Climate Change
Adaptation Design Statement (Industry,
Warehousing, Business Technology
Parks)
15.9.4 Outdoor Smoking Areas
15.9.5 Loading and Unloading
15.9.6 Extractive Industry
15.9.7 Home-Based Economic Activity
15.9.8 Agricultural Developments
15.9.8.1 Piggeries and Intensive Poultry Units
15.10 Waste Disposal and 15.10.1 Waste Recovery / Disposal Facilities
Recovery 15.10.2 Construction and Demolition Waste
15.10.3 Bring Banks and Recycling Facilities
15.11 Energy and 15.11.1 Wind Energy Proposals
Communications 15.11.2 Solar Energy Proposals
15.11.3 Applications Proximate to Overhead Lines
Telecommunications and Supporting
15.11.4
Infrastructure
15.12 Seveso Sites
15.13 Retail Development 15.13.1 Criteria for Assessment
15.13.2 Local Centres
15.13.3 Shopping Centres
15.13.4 Large Convenience Stores
15.13.5 Retail Warehousing
15.13.6 Motor Service Areas
Fast Food Outlets, Takeaways, Bookmakers,
15.13.7 Budget Shops, Vape Shops, Charity Shops,
Telephone / Mobile Shops and
Amusement / Gaming Arcades
Hours of Operation and Control of Sales
15.13.8
Hatches

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Section Topic
15.14 Shopfronts 15.14.1 Design
15.14.2 Planning Permission
15.14.3 Advertising on Shopfronts
15.14.4 Canopies
15.14.5 Roller Shutters
15.15 Advertising and
Signage
15.16 Outdoor Dining
15.17 Built and Natural 15.16.1 Protected Structures
Heritage 15.16.1.1 Works to a Protected Structure
Development within the Curtilage, Attendant
15.16.1.2
Grounds and Setting of Protected Structures
Development in Architectural Conservation
15.16.2
Areas
15.16.3 Development in Zones of Archaeological
Potential
15.16.4 Natural Heritage, Green Infrastructure and
Biodiversity
15.16.4.1 Riparian Corridors

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15.1 Background
Development management is a statutory process that ensures that development takes
place in an orderly and efficient manner. Specific control measures are outlined to
ensure that new development is of high quality and relates to the character, scale,
layout, and form of the area in question. Development will be managed by means of
established and proven principles aided by guiding standards, in particular guidelines
issued to the Planning Authority by the Minister regarding its functions, under Section
28 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended).
There is an obligation on the Council to ensure that permissions granted under the
Planning Acts are consistent with the policies and objectives set out in this Plan. This
chapter focuses on the general planning standards and design criteria that will be
applied by the Council to ensure that future development is in accordance with these
policies and objectives.
The granting of planning permission does not in itself enable development to
commence. There may be other legal and procedural requirements to consider,
including property title, building regulations, public health acts, fire regulations, air and
water pollution legislation.

15.1.1 Enforcement
To ensure the integrity of the planning system is maintained and it operates for the
benefit of the whole community, the Council will take enforcement action in cases of
unauthorised development, where appropriate, as resources allow, consistent with
the provisions of Part VIII of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended).
Under planning legislation any development which is not specifically exempt
development requires planning permission and development which does not have that
permission is unauthorised development, as is development which has been, or is
being, carried out in breach of conditions specified in a planning permission.
In carrying out its enforcement functions, the Council may issue Warning Letters
and/or Enforcement Notices or take injunctive proceedings pursuant to Section 160 of
the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended).
Proceedings for non-compliance with an Enforcement Notice will be taken in the
District Court in most cases. However, where appropriate, injunctions will be sought in
the Circuit Court or High Court. In all cases involving legal proceedings the Council
will seek to recover its costs, in addition to any fines imposed by the courts.
Furthermore, the Planning Authority has special control powers under current
legislation pertaining to such areas as protected structures and tree preservation
orders. In addition, the Planning Authority will continue the practice of granting
planning permission with the inclusion of conditions requiring levies and / or bonds,
where appropriate, to be paid to ensure compliance with the conditions of the
permission. The provisions of Section 35 of the Act may be evoked where appropriate.

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15.1.2 Non-Conforming Uses
Throughout the county there are uses that do not conform to the zoning objectives for
that area. These are uses that:
1. Were in existence on 1st October 1964
2. Have valid permissions; or
3. Have no permission but exceeded the time limit for enforcement proceedings.
Extensions to and improvement of premises referred to in categories 1 and 2 above
may be permitted. This would apply where proposed development would not be
seriously injurious to the amenities of the area and would not prejudice the proper
planning and sustainable development of the area.

15.1.3 Material Contravention

The Council has a statutory obligation to take such steps as may be necessary to
secure the objectives of the County Development Plan. In appropriate circumstances
the Council may permit a material contravention of the County Development Plan.
The granting of a permission that materially contravenes the County Development
Plan is a reserved function of the Elected Members of the Council, or the Municipal
District as appropriate, exercisable following a public consultation process and
consideration of a report prepared by the Chief Executive.

15.1.4 Development Contributions

The Council, taking into consideration the capital expenditure necessary for the
provision of public infrastructure and facilities, will require the payment of financial
contributions in accordance with the Development Contributions Scheme.
Developers may also be required to carry out works at their own expense to facilitate
their development and these will be specified as a condition of their planning
permission.

15.1.5 Environmental Impact Assessment

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a key instrument of EU environmental
policy. The primary purpose of the EIA Directive (Directive 2011/92 EU as amended
by 2014/52/EU) is to ensure that public and private projects, which are likely to have
significant effects on the environment are granted permission only after an
assessment of the likely significant environmental effects of those projects have been
carried out. The environmental factors against which projects should be assessed are
set out in Article 3 of the Directive as:
• Population and Human Health
• Biodiversity
• Land and Soil
• Water
• Air and Climate
• Material Assets

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 • Cultural Heritage and Landscape, and
• The Interaction between these factors
Environmental Impact Assessment is a process to be undertaken in respect of
applications for specified classes of development listed in the Directive before a
decision in respect of development consent is made. The process involves the
preparation of an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) by the applicant,
consultations with the public, relevant prescribed bodies and any other affected
Member States, and an examination and analysis of the EIAR and other relevant
information leading to a reasoned conclusion by a competent authority, on the likely
significant effects of the proposed development on the environment.
The Planning and Development Regulations, 2001 (as amended), specify mandatory
thresholds above which Environmental Impact Assessment Reports (EIARs) are
required in relation to certain types and scales of development proposals. Where it
appears to the Planning Authority that a development proposal that falls below the
threshold set out in the Planning and Development Regulations would be likely to
have a significant environmental effect 1, a subthreshold/discretionary EIAR will be
required by the Planning Authority.

15.1.6 Appropriate Assessment

All plans or projects, including the Council’s own proposals under Part 8 of the
Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended), unless they are directly
connected with or necessary to the management of a European (Natura 2000) site,
are required to be subject to screening for Appropriate Assessment, to determine if
they are likely to have a significant effect on a Natura 2000 site, either individually or
in combination with other plans or projects.
Full Appropriate Assessment must be carried out unless it can be established through
screening that the plan or project in question will not have a significant effect on the
Natura 2000 Site.
Planning permission will only be granted for a development proposal that:
- Either individually or in combination with existing and/or proposed plans or
projects, will not have a significant effect on a European Site, OR
- Where such a development proposal is likely or might have such a significant
effect (either alone or in combination), the Planning Authority will, as required
by law, carry out an Appropriate Assessment as per requirements of Article 6(3)
of the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC of the 21 May 1992 on the conservation of
natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora, as transposed into Irish legislation.
Only after having ascertained that the development proposal will not adversely affect
the integrity of any European site, will the Planning Authority agree to the development
and impose appropriate mitigation measures in the form of planning conditions.

1 The criteria for determining whether a development would or would not be likely to have significant
effects on the environment is set out in Schedule 7 of the Planning and Development Regulations, 2001
(as amended).

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A development proposal which could adversely affect the integrity of a European site
may only be permitted in exceptional circumstances, as provided for in Article 6(4) of
the Habitats Directive as transposed into Irish legislation.

15.1.7 Pre-Application Discussions

Section 247 of the Planning and Development Act, 2000 (as amended) provides a
formal procedure for applicants to seek pre-planning guidance from the Planning
Authority in relation to proposed developments. The Planning Authority provides pre-
application consultations when requested and actively encourages such consultations
prior to the lodging of a planning application.
A prospective applicant shall have consulted with the Planning Authority in respect of
development that comprises:
- Residential development of more than 10 housing units
- Non-residential development of more than 1,000 sq. meters gross floor space.
- Other development as may be prescribed in legislation.
The Council will encourage and actively facilitate pre-planning discussions through
individual meetings / planning clinics / emails / phone calls / remote meetings as
deemed appropriate. The carrying out of consultations shall not prejudice the
performance by the Council of any other of its functions under the Planning and
Development Act 2000 (as amended), or any regulations made under the Act, and
cannot be relied upon in the formal planning process or in legal proceedings.

15.1.8 Bonds
To ensure the satisfactory completion of development works, such as roads, surface
water drainage, public lighting, landscaping and open space, including the protection
of trees / hedgerows, on a site subject of a grant of permission, a bond or cash
lodgement may be required until the development is deemed to have been satisfactorily
completed. The bond or cash lodgement may be sequestered in part or in its entirety
at the discretion of the Planning Authority where the development has not been
satisfactorily completed to the exacting standards of the local authority, or until the
development is taken in charge by the local authority. The amount of such bond or
cash lodgement will be determined by the local authority. In determining the method
of security, previous records of applicants’ compliance and construction standards
will be considered. This bond or security must be adequate to secure the completion
of the development and must be in place before development is commenced.

15.1.9 Digitised Planning Applications and ICT

The Council will require all applications over three housing units and all commercial
developments to provide site drawings to fit into National Grid Co- ordinates to comply
with the requirements for Geographical Information Systems (GIS) mapping and
inventory. It is envisaged that the Department of Housing, Local Government and
Heritage will bring forward regulations and guidelines to permit the lodging of planning
applications electronically.

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15.2 General Development Standards
15.2.1 Site Coverage and Plot Ratio
Traditionally, site coverage and plot ratio were used as tools to measure and control
the extent of development. Site coverage relates to the percentage of the
development site covered by buildings and structures (excluding the public roads and
footpaths) and is calculated using the formula below:

Plot ratio refers to the relationship between the extent of development proposed as a
quotient of the total site area and is calculated using the formula below:

Appropriate site coverage and plot ratio will now be considered on a qualitative basis,
rather than quantitative, having regard to the quality of design, response to site
context (including sensitivity to Architectural Conservation Areas where applicable)
and potential impacts on the surrounding environment. Higher levels of development
may be permissible in certain limited circumstances such as:
- Locations adjacent to public transport corridors
- Locations identified for regeneration purposes
- When an appropriate mix of uses are proposed.
- Where exceptional design is achieved, meeting the requirements of Chapter
14.6 of this Plan and the Urban Design Manual – A companion document to
the Guidelines for Planning Authorities on Sustainable Residential
Development in Urban Areas and the Sustainable Urban Housing; Design
Standards for New Apartment Guidelines (2020) where applicable.
In considering applications for redevelopment of existing sites, due regard will be given
to the established site coverage.

15.2.2 Overlooking / Separation Distances

Traditionally a minimum distance of 22m is required between directly opposing first
floor windows. However, in cases of innovative design, where overlooking into
habitable rooms does not occur, this figure may be reduced, subject to the protection
of adjoining residential amenities and privacy, the quality of design and adherence to
the Sustainable Urban Housing: Design Standards for New Apartment Guidelines
(2020) where applicable.

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A greater separation distance may be required for taller buildings (e.g., apartment
developments and those over three storeys high). A separation distance of 35 metres
will normally be required in the case of overlooking living room windows and balconies
at upper floors. In some cases, subject to design orientation, and location in built up
areas, reduced separation distances may be acceptable.
A minimum distance of 2.3 metres shall be provided between the side walls of adjacent
dwellings or dwelling blocks with each building being a minimum of 1 metre from the
boundary to allow for adequate maintenance and access.
In all instances where minimum separation distances are not met, the applicant shall
submit a sunlight/daylight/overshadowing analysis for proposed developments. In
keeping with the principle of compact development and the desire for town and village
renewal, where such instances occur within established urban areas and in particular
town centres, a level of flexibility may be applied by the Planning Authority. Any
relaxing of standards will be assessed on a case-by-case basis and should not be
viewed as a precedent for future development.
Adequate separation distances will be required for buildings overlooking school
playgrounds or other sensitive land uses. These will be determined at planning
application stage. Innovative design solutions to avoid undue overlooking will be
encouraged.

15.2.3 Overshadowing
High levels of daylight and sunlight provide for good levels of amenity for residents.
The internal layout of residential units should be designed to maximize use of natural
daylight and sunlight.
All new developments are required to have regard to the recommendations of Site
Layout Planning for Daylight and Sunlight: A Guide to Good Practice (B.R.209, 2011)
and British Standard (B.S.) 8206 Lighting for Buildings, Part 2, 2008: Code of Practice
for Day Lighting or other updated relevant documents. Where an applicant cannot
fully meet all of the requirements of the daylight provisions, this must be clearly
identified and a rationale for any alternative, compensatory design solutions must be
set out, which will be considered by the planning authority on a case-by-case basis.

15.2.4 Soft Landscaping

Planting and landscaping should be used to incorporate new buildings into their
surroundings and provide privacy between dwellings. New planting should consist of
local native plant types with consideration given to providence and origin of plants
indigenous to the area. The planting should be incorporated into the site to enhance
overall appearance, to conserve biodiversity (Refer to Table 15.1) and to contribute to
the green infrastructure of the area.

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 The Planning Authority will require the following in relation to site development and
landscaping works:
• The planting of semi-mature trees 2 depending on location and circumstances.
Proposals to provide semi-mature trees of appropriate species (as set out in Table
15.1) in suitable prominent locations within a development site will be considered
favourably.
• Existing trees (particularly mature trees) and hedgerows shall be retained and
incorporated into the design of development layouts, e.g., in public / private open
space and at boundaries. Measures to protect the trees with secure fencing (prior
to any site or engineering works commencing) shall be indicated on a site
management plan.
• A detailed replanting proposal shall be submitted should the removal of hedges /
trees be required during development, those to be removed shall be identified on
drawings. This proposal should provide for the replacement of, at minimum, an
equal amount of similar native hedgerows and the planting of a minimum of five
mature / established trees per tree felled. The replacement of hedgerows / trees
shall have due regard to the ecological function of hedgerows as a wildlife corridor
and shall not work in isolation from the remaining hedgerow network.
• Where a large site adjoins a green corridor, public open space or area of high
ecological value, any new public open space on the site should be contiguous to
same and encourage visual continuity and expansion of the green
infrastructure/biodiversity network. The appropriate grading or transition of public
open space towards a green biodiversity corridor shall be factored into the
consideration.
• Landscaping works shall incorporate nature based drainage systems such as
biodiversity areas or wetlands, which can reduce surface water run-off. Green
roofs, walls, street trees and permeable surfaces will be encouraged.
• Street trees shall be encouraged into developments where possible and facilitated
by way of appropriately designed tree pits.
• All planting must take place in the first planting season following occupation of the
building or completion of the development, whichever is sooner. Any trees or
plants, which within a period of 5 years from the completion of the development die
or become seriously damaged or diseased, shall be replaced in the next planting
season.
• Leylandii trees Cupressocyparis ‘Leylandii’, Cupressocyparis ‘Castlewellan Gold’
and Laurel Prunus laurocerasus shall no longer be permitted as part of
landscaping proposals for any new development. Leylandii because of their
nuisance and safety risk they pose when not managed and Laurel due to the
invasive nature of this species.
• The planting of species listed as of concern by invasive species Ireland, including
species such as Cherry Laurel Prunus Laurocerasus and also species of a
potential invasive nature as outlined by invasive species Ireland such as Cornus
sericea L. shall neither be permitted in rural nor urban areas.

2 Semi-mature trees are defined as trees with an overall height of more than 4 metres and/or a stem girth
measurement (circumference) of 20 centimetres or larger.

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To ensure that trees and hedgerows are protected on a site and that all agreed
landscaping is carried out, a bond or cash lodgment may be required as part of a grant
of planning permission, the amount of which shall be determined by the Council.
The Good Practice Guidelines for Developers – Biodiversity and Development in
County Kildare, Kildare Heritage Series Volume 1 and The Good Practice Guidelines
for Householders – Biodiversity and Development in County Kildare, Kildare Heritage
Series Volume 2 should also be referenced for advice regarding landscaping and
biodiversity matters. Soft landscaping proposals for public areas shall also be
assessed having regard to the principles of the Urban Design Manual Best Practice
Guide (DEHLG, 2009), as appropriate.

Common Height Suitable Suitable Suitable Guide to

name (max) for public for streets for tubs, planting:
open and containers See key
spaces confined and raised below
spaces beds etc.
Alder 22m Yes No Yes ADPS
Alder 6m Yes No Yes D
Buckthorn
Ash 28m Yes No No ADIPS
Aspen 24m Yes No No DPSV not
close to
buildings or
services.
Arbutus 8m Yes No Yes Not frost
(strawberry hardy
tree)
Bramble 2m No No No C / H tends
to be
invasive
Broom 2m Yes No Yes Tolerates
dry
conditions
Burnet Rose 2m Yes No Yes, but C / H.
vigorous Restricted
distribution.
Common (or 2.5m Yes No In a rural HV
European) setting
Gorse
Crab Apple 6m Yes No No AHIP
Dog Rose 2m Yes No Yes. C/H
Vigorous
Downy Birch 18m Yes Yes Yes ADIP
Elder 6m In hedge No No V
Grey Willow 10m Yes No No AHDV
Guelder Rose 4.5m Yes No No DH
Hawthorn 9m Yes Yes Yes AHIPS

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 Common Height Suitable Suitable Suitable Guide to
name (max) for public for streets for tubs, planting:
open and containers See key
spaces confined and raised below
spaces beds etc.
Hazel 6m Yes No No AHS
Holly 15m Yes Yes Yes AHPS
Honeysuckle climber Yes On walls No C
Ivy climber Yes Yes Yes C
Juniper 6m Yes No No S
Pedunculate 30m Yes No No AI only
Oak suitable for
large spaces
Purging/ 8m Yes No No HP
Common
Buckthorn
Rowan or 9m Yes Yes Yes ADHIP
Mountain Ash
Scots Pine 24m Yes No No AI
Sessile Oak 30m Yes No No AI only
suitable for
large spaces
Silver Birch 18m Yes Yes Yes ADIP
Sloe, 3m Yes No No AHPV
Blackthorn
Spindle 7.5m Yes No No H
Whitebeam 12 Yes Yes Yes IPS
spp.
Wild Cherry 15m Yes Yes Yes AHI
Wild Privet 3m Yes Yes Yes No

Willow spp. 6m Some No No V Not

suitable near
buildings or
services
Wych Elm 30m Yes No PS
Yew 14m Yes No Yes AIPS
Table 15.1 (a) - Native Trees and Shrubs

Key – Table 15.1 (a) (Native Trees and Shrubs)

A Grows in a wide variety of soils
C Climber
H Suitable for hedging
I Suitable as an individual tree
D Tolerates or prefers damp conditions
P Tolerates smoke or pollution
S Tolerates shades
V Invasive

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 STREET TREES
Species Flowering
Juneberry Tree
April
Amelanchier x grandiflora ‘Robin Hill’
Hawthorn
May
Crataegus monogyna ‘Stricta’
Pillar Crab
May
Malus tschonoskii
Callery Pear
April-May
Pyrus calleryana ‘Chanticleer’
Rowan
May-June
Sorbus acuparia varieties
Lime
Tilia x europaea ‘Euchlora’
June-July
(culitvars as many can grow to large tree size
proportions that will exceed allotted roadside space)
Table 15.1 (b) - Street Trees (Source: Pollinator friendly planting code, NBDC).

OPEN SPACE TREES

Horse Chestnut Aesculus hippocastum
Amelanchier species (not A. lamarki which may be
Juneberry
invasive)
Indian Bean Tree Catalpa bignonioides
Hawthorn Crataegus species
Apple Malus species / cultivars
Foxglove Tree Paulownia tomentosa
Wild Cherry Prunus avium
Bird Cherry Prunus padus
Japanese Flowering Cherry Prunus serrulate ‘Tai Haku’
Pear Pyrus species and cultivars
Rowan Sorbus species/cultivars
Willow Salix
Table 15.1 (c) - Open Space Trees

The trees outlined above are fast growing and excellent for pollinating insects
producing large quantities of nectar and pollen. Choice of appropriate species /
cultivar for the right situation requires careful consideration. Priority should be given
to native species. However, recommended non-native species include:

- Salix aegyptiaca (early spring flowering)

- Salix alba (spring flowering)
- Salix abla ‘Liempde’ Salix alba var. vitellina
- Lime

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- Tilia (Tilia Americana ‘Redmond’, Tilia cordata, Tilia x europea, Tilia platyphyllos,
Tilia tomentosa).

The range and diversity of Tilia is large therefore a small selection is recommended.
These are outlined above.

15.2.5 Hard Landscaping

Hard landscaping design, including paving and street furniture, is an important element
in defining the character of streets and public open spaces. It can also help to provide
a visual link to the surroundings; define and enclose spaces and delineate public from
private space; provide security to private areas; distinguish between pedestrian, cycle,
and vehicle movement; and provide suitable play space for children. Hard landscaping
shall address the following:
• Applications for substantial hard-surfaced areas (e.g., streets, squares, open
spaces, paved areas, footpaths, and driveways) must use appropriate materials
that are durable and of good quality while demonstrating methods of controlling
and limiting surface water run-off consistent with sustainable development.
• Use of permeable paving/surfaces, ponds, bio-retention areas, tree pits, rain
gardens, swales and other nature based drainage system methods, such that
rainfall is not directed immediately to surface water drains. Such methods can
serve to reduce the risk of flooding.
• The use of artificial grass in all new residential developments shall not be
permitted, save in exceptional circumstances including for children’s play areas.
• Walls, fences, metal railings, and gates used to define spaces should be selected
so as to be an integrated part of the overall design. Street furniture should be
appropriately designed and sited such that it does not provide an obstacle for
people with disabilities.
• Where underground or surface works are carried out, the Council will ensure the
reinstatement of materials or the replacement with materials of similar style and
quality.
Hard-landscaping proposals for public areas shall also be assessed with regard to the
principles of the Urban Design Manual Best Practice Guide (DEHLG, 2009), as
appropriate.
The integration of art into the public domain can contribute positively to the urban form,
creating local distinctiveness and enhancing a public space.
Where possible and practicable existing stone walls should be retained as part of new
developments.

15.2.6 Access to Land

Development should be designed in such a fashion that it will not prejudice the
provision of vehicular or pedestrian access, or key infrastructural services in adjoining
lands. Development should also be designed to ensure ‘ransom strips’ will not inhibit
future development.

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15.2.7 Universal Access / Design
The Council will require that proposed developments, in their layout and design, are
accessible, understandable, and usable to the greatest extent possible by all people,
regardless of their age, size, ability or disability.
The design and layout of development schemes, public realm and community
infrastructure should incorporate universal design insofar as is feasible, having regard
to the provisions of the National Disability Authority ‘Building for Everyone: A Universal
Design Approach – Planning and Policy (2012) and Part M of the Building Regulations
which sets out standards to ensure buildings are accessible to and usable by
everyone. The Technical Guidance Document in relation to Part M provides guidance
on the access requirements for public buildings and residential dwellings.
Development Proposals should incorporate best practice design including elements
set out below (note some areas are regulated by other local authority functions such
as Building Control):
- Promotion of lifetime housing design.
- Incorporation of adaptable home offices to facilitate working from home.
- Provision of designated accessible parking and set down points for people with
disabilities and parents with children.
- Level pedestrian routes with sufficient width.
- Use of surfaces suitable for wheelchairs and buggies.
- Use of tactile and blister paving.
- Use of colour contrast, particularly in the public realm.
- Provision of wayfinding / signage at appropriate levels, (N.B. in public realm).
- Ensuring level access to buildings from the street that is suitable for wheelchairs
and buggies.
- Provision of automatic doors.

15.3 Design Statements

This Plan advocates a collaborative and multi-disciplinary approach to achieving high
quality urban design and placemaking outcomes. As such, it is considered that
design statements are a vital tool which can assist all parties involved in the
development management process in assessing the suitability of proposed design
solutions for specific sites.

While a design statement can be prepared for all development proposals, the Planning
Authority will require one to be submitted alongside applications for the following:
• Residential development comprising of 10 or more units.
• Commercial, retail, or community developments (including a mix /
combination) which total 1,000 square metres or more.
• Key or sensitive sites in settlements, as may be identified in a Local
Area Plan, a relevant placemaking strategy, or at planning application
stage.
• Sites within or adjacent to designated Architectural Conservation Areas.
• Development proposal affecting Protected Structures.
• Sites with a steep and / or varying topography.
• ‘Gateway’ sites to towns and villages throughout the county.

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Furthermore, the Planning Authority has the discretion to require a design statement
to be prepared for any proposed development which it considers may have a
significant impact on the receiving environment including:
• the visual sensitivities of an area
• the landscape character,
• environmental sensitivities of an area.

While the level of detail to be included in a design statement shall be proportionate to

the scale and complexity of the development proposed, it should generally be a
focused and concise document and should not duplicate information that is already
included in the planning application.
The following details should be included in a design statement:
• A clear explanation of the design process including options considered.
• A demonstration of how the development adheres to the relevant provisions
of the County Development Plan, including explicit reference to the Urban
Design Standards Checklist, as outlined in Table 14.2.
• Any relevant Local Area Plan, Masterplan, or other placemaking strategy
affecting the site.
• Where relevant, the design statement should demonstrate how the
development adheres to the guidance and principles set out in the ‘Urban
Design Manual’ (DoEHLG, 2009), particularly to show where and how the 12
Criteria (as per the ‘Urban Design Manual – A Best Practice Guide’) have
each been considered.
• A site and area appraisal including photographs of the site and its
surroundings accompanied by illustrations such as photomontages,
perspectives, and sketches, along with summaries of relevant studies and
details of any recent consultations.
• In urban areas, a demonstration of how the development responds to the
established urban structure, movement and accessibility, land uses, density,
urban grain, visual context and built form.
• A demonstration of how existing and new green infrastructure features will be
integrated into the scheme.
• Detailed proposals for open space illustrating how the provision of such areas
have been designed in from the beginning.
• A comprehensive high quality open space and landscape design plan
including specifications, prepared by suitably qualified professionals.
• A statement setting out how energy efficiency and other climate mitigation
measures have been incorporated into the proposed development.

15.4 Residential Development

Well-designed and integrated housing developments can make a significant
contribution to the quality of life and wellbeing of residents and therefore improve the
overall long- term sustainability of a settlement as a whole.

Accordingly, the Council will require that all new residential development should
integrate with its surroundings, incorporate green infrastructure features, maximise the
potential for present and future connectivity, maximise opportunities for social
interaction, and be of high-quality design constructed with attractive and durable

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materials that positively contribute to the creation of a sense of place and identity for
the area.

The Council, in providing advice and in undertaking any assessment of proposed

residential development will have regard to the content, policies and objectives of

Chapter 3 and Chapter 14, along with relevant Section 28 Ministerial Guidelines,
including the Sustainable Residential Development in Urban Areas (Cities, Towns and
Villages) Guidelines for Planning Authorities (DEHLG, 2009) and the accompanying
Urban Design Manual.

15.4.1 Development Capacity

Applications for residential development in urban areas will be required to comply with
the principles of compact growth and demonstrate that they will contribute to the
overall consolidation of the settlement. The need for new residential development to
achieve sustainable densities at appropriate locations, should also be balanced with
the following considerations:
• The existing and future (planned) capacity of the physical and social
infrastructure to appropriately cater for the envisaged population.
• Achieving adequate privacy and residential amenities for individual residential
units within the proposed development.
• Retaining adequate privacy and residential amenities for existing/adjoining
residential areas.
• Retaining and integrating the existing green infrastructure features &
enhanced biodiversity features (for example bird boxes, hedgehog streets etc.)
into the layout and design of the open space.
• An assessment of the sites ability to appropriately accommodate development
having regard to its environmental sensitivities and physical topography.
• The safety and appropriateness of the proposed layout and access
arrangements to the development.
In accordance with the provisions of Section 15.5.1 applications for residential
development over 20 units or, 2,000m2 in the case of commercial developments,
(including office/industrial developments), will be required to be accompanied by a
Social Infrastructure Audit (SIA) in order to demonstrate that the proposed
development, in conjunction with other extant permissions for residential development,
will not place an unacceptable burden on the existing capacity of social infrastructure
in the area. The Council will place particular emphasis on the need to ensure that any
required social infrastructure will be developed either in tandem with, or prior to any
new residential development.

15.4.2 Development Phasing

With regard to section 15.4.1 above, the phasing of a development may be required
where constraints are identified relating to the physical or social attributes of the site
or the wider area. In such instances the Council will require planning applications for
multi-unit residential developments to be accompanied by a phasing schedule
detailing the number of dwellings, quantum of public open space and infrastructure

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which will be developed as part of each phase. It will be necessary for each phase to
fully deliver the quantum of public open space along with any proposed landscaping
measures, commensurate to the number of dwellings in that particular phase.

15.4.3 Residential Density

Indicative density levels for residential development are set out in Table 3.1 of Chapter
3. As per the Section 28 Guidelines on Urban Development and Building Heights
(2018) this Plan supports a drive for increased building heights in appropriate locations
in order to maximise the efficient use of development land in urban areas. In this
regard, Section 14.8 identifies specific locations within the county which have the
capacity to suitably accommodate taller buildings, including for residential
development. Local Area Plans will also identify density targets for particular sites and
specify locations for taller buildings as appropriate.

15.4.4 Housing Mix

In accordance with Objective HO O15 a ‘Statement of Housing Mix’ will be required to
accompany applications for 10 or more units in order to ensure an appropriate mix of
house types and sizes within individual residential development schemes and that they
are adaptable, designed to meet the needs of an aging population and cater for people
with disabilities. Accordingly, this statement shall set out how the proposed housing
mix, including type, size and tenure has been determined, having regard to local
supply and demand.

A cumulative approach to the assessment of housing mix will be applied. A Housing

Mix Statement may be required for sub-threshold application where, when taken in
conjunction with another application/development, the above threshold is reached. In
determining an appropriate mix, a Housing Mix Statement will be required to consider
other applications/previous developments in the same location in its assessment.

15.4.5 Design, Layout and Boundary Treatments

The design and layout of new residential development offers the opportunity to
establish exceptional standards in terms of placemaking and urban design through the
integration of high-quality connectivity, open space and sustainable mobility features
from the outset. While the Kildare Rural House Design Guide (Appendix 4) outlines
the requirements for layout and boundary treatment for rural dwellings, proposals for
residential development in towns and villages will be required to fully address the 12
Criteria for sustainable residential development as outlined in the Urban Design
Manual – A Best Practice Guide (DoEHLG, 2009), as well as the guidance set out in
Section 14.6 of this Plan.

Furthermore, the design and layout of all residential developments must fully comply
with the Design Manual for Urban Roads and Streets (2019). This includes the
implementation of a fully connected street hierarchy which prioritises sustainable
modes of transport over the car, as well as ensuring the optimal size of urban blocks
to provide for a high level of permeability.

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New developments should take full account of the characteristics of the natural and
built environment of the site, including the views and vistas into and out of the site.
The layout of the open space should be designed in such a way as to be a focal point
within the development and shall where present, incorporate existing natural features
such as streams, mature trees and established vegetation. Car parking arrangements
should be fully integrated into the landscaping scheme so that they do not overly
dominate the streetscape or detract from the aesthetics and useability of public open
space.
Street trees should be designed into new developments, and developments should
incorporate a high level of active frontages and passive supervision of all public open
space. Built form on corner sites should be dual aspect and have a responsive design
appropriately addressing their more prominent location. Boundaries between public
open space, semi-private open space and private open space should be clearly
delineated.
The layout of residential housing should avoid backing onto historic field boundaries
which contain mature trees and/or established hedgerow. Furthermore, any
development adjacent to a high amenity area (such as the Curragh) will require a soft
boundary and/or approval by the Heritage Officer for boundary treatments. Further
requirements in relation to soft landscaping features are outlined in Section 15.2.4.
The need for boundary treatments such as railings or walls around residential
developments should be limited to an absolute minimum. In situations where a design
solution cannot mitigate against the presence of such physical boundaries, high
railings and walls should be avoided and boundaries should take the form of a low
wall (rendered, natural stone or brick), railing, or a planted native hedgerow, to
incorporate hedgehog streets, depending on the characteristics and location of the
site.
Monumental or overbearing entrances to housing developments will not be permitted.
Gated developments will not be permitted as they reduce social inclusion and
integration within the existing community and generally fail to address the existing
streetscape.

15.4.6 House Design

In addition to an appropriate layout, a high standard of building design, detailing and
specification of materials and a high standard of craftsmanship will be required. While the
planning authority welcomes contemporary architecture. New developments should not be
incongruous or have an overbearing effect on the established environment. Context
remains very important, particularly in the case of the smaller towns and villages in
the county.

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House design open space provision shall have regard to the following requirements:
Unit Type Minimum Private
Floor Area Storage Area
(House) Open Space
One bedroom 55m2 3m2 48m2
Two bedroom 85m2 6m2 55m2
Three bedroom 100m2 9m2 60m2
Four bedroom 110m2 10m2 75m2
* Minimum private open space requirement for dwellings with four or more units.
Table 15.2 - Minimum Floor space and Open Space Requirements for Houses

- Apartment schemes shall deliver a minimum of 33% or 50% of units (depending on

circumstances) as dual aspect, in accordance with the criteria as set out in
‘Sustainable Urban Housing; Design Standards for New Apartments’
- A minimum distance of 2.5m between semi- detached and detached housing shall
generally be provided.
- Site Layout Plans for all applications for multi-unit residential development should
detail the bin storage, bicycle parking and e-car charging provisions.
- Adequate provision shall be made for the storage and collection of waste materials.
Each house shall have adequately screened storage for at least 3 number ‘wheelie’
bins.
- Terraced / townhouse schemes shall include appropriate design measures for
refuse bins, details of which should be clearly shown at planning application stage.
Bins should not be situated immediately adjacent to the front door or ground floor
window unless adequately screened alcoves or other such mitigation measures
are provided. Innovative and attractive design solutions shall be required in this
regard.
- Terraced / townhouse schemes shall include appropriate design measures for
bicycle storage, details of which should be clearly shown at planning application
stage. Storage should be provided through one of the following:
(a) Incorporation of a utility/store room accessed from close to the front of the
house.
(b) Provision of access to the rear of houses.
(c) Provision of sheltered parking at a public, well lit and secure space.
- Special consideration should be given to boundary treatments particularly where
these adjoin existing dwellings. Situations which lead to the creation of two walls
or fences with a gap in between should be avoided. In such instances, applicants
shall be required to apply the most effective and appropriate boundary treatment
taking into consideration the context and environmental sensitivities of the site.
- High quality boundary treatments are generally required to enclose private open
space. A 1.8m – 2m high wall of solid block, capped and plastered on both sides,
is generally acceptable. The Council will consider alternative boundary treatments
on their merits. All boundaries in such case shall be of high-quality solid
construction with no gaps. Post and wire or timber post and panel fencing is not
permitted.

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- While every effort should be made to avoid rear gardens fronting on to public open
space, in situations where this proves impossible, two-metre-high screen walls,
suitably finished (rendered, natural stone or brick) and capped, should be provided
between all areas of public space and rear gardens. Proposals for planting along
the public side of the wall shall be included on a landscaping plan. An additional
inner grass verge shall be provided along any footpath to facilitate this, if
necessary.
- In the interest of passive surveillance, where side boundary walls adjoin the public
footpath, the walls shall be a maximum of 1 metre in height as far as the rear
building line of the dwelling (beyond which a 2 metre wall may be provided).
- Private open space should be designed so that it is usable for the proposed
residents.
- Utility boxes should be screened from public view particularly for terraced units.
- Windows in the gable / side walls of dwellings will not be permitted where the
window would closely overlook the private open space of the adjoining dwelling or
where the window would not provide adequate light or aspect to a habitable room.
However, windows featuring opaque glazing may be acceptable in certain
instances.
- In relation to storage spaces the following requirements shall be applied:
o As a rule, no individual storage room within a dwelling should exceed 3.5 sq
metres.
o Storage should be provided off a hallway or landing to facilitate access.
o Attic spaces may satisfy part of the general storage requirements but only if
such spaces feature a stud floor and are accessible by a stairs or integrated
attic ladder.
o Hot presses, boiler or heat pump spaces do not count as storage areas.
o Utility rooms may in certain circumstances contribute to overall storage
requirements.
o Storage should be additional to kitchen presses and bedroom furniture.
o Dwellings may provide storage for bulky items outside individual units and
this may satisfy part of the general storage requirement, where considered
appropriate.

15.4.7 Apartment Developments

An apartment can be defined as a residential unit in a multi-unit building with grouped
or common access. Planning applications for apartments shall be assessed against
the Sustainable Urban Housing: Design Standards for New Apartments (2020) or any
subsequent guidelines and the Urban Development and Building Height Guidelines
(2018).

The Apartment Guidelines set out detailed parameters in the form of Specific Planning
Policy Requirements (SPPRs) with respect to:

• General locational considerations.

• Appropriate mix within apartment schemes (SPPR 1 and SPPR 2).
• Internal space standards for different apartments - all apartment floor area
measurements should be internal wall-to-wall dimensions (SPPR 3).
• Dual aspect ratios (SPPR 4).
• Floor to ceiling heights (SPPR 5).
• Lift / stair core access (SPPR 6).

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• Private and communal amenity space.
• Security considerations.
• Storage spaces.
• Communal facilities
• Car and bicycle parking/storage; and
• Adaptability.

15.4.8 Build-to-Rent
Build-to-rent (BTR) housing developments are purpose-built developments for long-
term rental, are managed by an individual entity and provide dedicated amenities and
facilities for residents. They have a role to play in providing choice and flexibility to
people where homeownership may not be a priority or transient people moving
between countries for employment.

All proposed BTR housing developments must comply with SPPR 7 and SPPR 8 as
set out in the Sustainable Urban Housing: Design Standards for New Apartments
(2020) or any subsequent guidelines.

15.4.9 Shared Accommodation / Co-Living Developments

Shared accommodation/co-living developments are professionally managed rental
accommodation, where individual rooms are rented within a commercial development
that includes access to shared or communal facilities and amenities. In accordance
with SPPR 9 there shall be a presumption against granting planning permission
unless a need is identified to meet a specific demand identified in the Housing Need
Demand Assessment (HNDA). The HNDA prepared as part of the Plan review did not
identify a specific need for this type of residential development in Kildare.

15.4.10 Management Companies for Apartments

Apartment developments are not taken in charge by the local authority and therefore a
management company is required. The Multi-Unit Developments Act 2011 came into
effect on 1 April 2011 and regulates the ownership and management of the common
areas of appropriate multi-unit developments and provides for the setting up of
owners’ management companies to manage such areas. Where required, a properly
constituted management company shall be established for the purposes of
maintaining public lighting, roads, parking areas, services, open spaces and public areas
in apartment schemes and a condition will be attached to any grant of planning
permission in this regard.

15.4.11 Purpose Built Student Accommodation

The Government has indicated (September 2021) the critical need for purpose-built
student accommodation (PBSA) to be available to meet the needs of students in third-
level education. As per PL05/2021 and PL8/2016, the Planning Authority will apply a
flexible approach in respect of any planning conditions related to use/occupation of
student accommodation. Purpose-built student accommodation should not be used
for short-term residential accommodation indefinitely, and it should be safeguarded
for use by students and other people related to higher education institutes during the
academic year. The removal of student accommodation from availability for student
use runs contrary to the National Student Accommodation Strategy.

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The Council supports the provision of high-quality, professionally managed, purpose
built third level student accommodation, either on campus or in accessible locations
adjacent to quality public transport corridors and active travel routes in a manner
which respects the residential amenities of the locality.

The Council will ensure that student specific accommodation is:

• Not used for residential accommodation of a permanent nature.
• Safeguarded for use by students and other persons related to higher education
institutes during the academic year; and
• Capable of being used for legitimate occupation by other persons/groups during
holiday periods, when not required for student accommodation purposes.

A condition shall be attached having regard to the above to any grant of planning
permission in accordance with Appendix 1 of Circular PL8/2016. Where planning
permission is granted for the development of PBSA, a change of use permission will
not be granted unless it has been demonstrated that there is an over-provision of
student accommodation in the area.

In considering a planning application for student accommodation the Council will have
regard to;
• The location of the site and its appropriateness in relation to accessibility to the
educational facilities.
• The proximity of the site to existing or planned public transport corridors and active
travel routes.
• The pattern and distribution of student accommodation in the locality. In this
regard an overconcentration of such schemes in any one area with the exception
of on-campus facilities will be resisted.
• Terms of occupation (e.g., term-time for students and short let during academic
holiday period) or any alternative uses outside of the academic year. The provision
of documentary evidence that all occupiers will be students registered with a third-
level institution during the academic year will be required.
• Details on how the scheme will be professionally managed including details of the
on-site management team, security and monitoring, and how anti-social behaviour
will be addressed.
• Demonstrate how the scheme will integrate with and complement the wider local
community.
• Demonstrate that the design and layout would not impact on the amenities of the
area. The external layout, including any necessary security arrangements, should
be designed to avoid isolating developments from the surrounding community.
• The standard of accommodation (bedrooms, bathrooms, communal facilities and
amenities, open space).
• The level and quality of on-site facilities, including storage facilities, waste
management, cycle storage, leisure facilities, car parking and amenity.
• The architectural quality of the design and external layout, with respect to
materials, scale, height, and relationship to adjacent structures.

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15.4.12 Extensions to Dwellings
Adapting residential units through extensions can sustainably accommodate the
changing needs of occupants subject to the protection of residential and visual
amenities. A well-designed extension can provide extra space, personalise and
enhance the appearance of a dwelling. It would not be practical to set out a
prescriptive approach to the design of extensions that would cover every situation,
nor is it desirable to inhibit innovation or individuality. The following basic principles
shall be applied:
• The extension should be sensitive to the appearance and character of the house
and the local area (urban or rural).
• The extension shall have regard to the form and scale of the existing dwelling and
should not adversely distort the scale or mass of the structure.
• The design and scale should have regard to adjoining properties.
• A flexible approach will be taken to the assessment of alternative design concepts
and high-quality contemporary designs will be encouraged. A different approach
may apply in the case of a Protected Structure, structures with significant heritage
or within an Architectural Conservation Area.
• In rural areas, the design of extensions should have regard to the Key Principles set
out in Appendix 4 Rural House Design Guide.
• The extension should not provide for new overlooking or loss of privacy below
reasonable levels to the private area of an adjacent residence.
• The cumulative impact of the existing extent of overlooking and the overlooking
that would arise as a result of any proposed extension need to be considered.
• The extension should not have an overbearing impact on neighbouring properties.
Large extensions, particularly if higher than one storey, should be moved away
from neighbouring property boundaries.
• New extensions should not overshadow adjacent dwellings to the degree that there
is a significant decrease in daylight or sunlight entering into the house.
• An adequate area of private open space, relative to the size of the
dwelling should be retained, generally not less than 25sq.m.
• Where required, it will be necessary to demonstrate that the existing on-site
wastewater treatment system serving the main dwelling can facilitate the additional
loading from the proposed extension. Where this cannot be demonstrated, it will be
necessary for the on-site wastewater treatment system to be upgraded as part of
the development proposal.

15.4.13 Domestic Garage / Store / Home-Work Pod / Garden Room

The development of a domestic garage/store/home-work pod /garden room for use
ancillary to the enjoyment of a dwelling house will be considered subject to
compliance with the following standards:
• The domestic garage/store/home-work pod /garden room shall be single storey
only, with a maximum gross floor area of 40m2 and a maximum ridge height of
5m.
• The unit shall generally be located behind the front building line of the existing
dwelling.
• In urban areas, the development will be assessed on the scale of the space
surrounding the dwelling and any impact on neighbouring properties.

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• The design and external finishes of the unit shall generally be in keeping with that
of the dwelling house.
• The unit shall only be used for purposes ancillary to the enjoyment of the dwelling
house and not for human habitation.
• The Planning Authority may consider exceptions to the criteria above having
regard to the need for the development and the location and characteristics of the
subject site.

15.4.14 Family Flat

Family flats (often known as granny flats) refer to a temporary subdivision or
extension of an existing dwelling unit. They are a way of providing additional
accommodation with a level of semi-independence for an immediate family member
(dependent on the main occupants of the dwelling).

Applications for a family flat shall have regard to the following requirements:
• The applicant shall be required to demonstrate that there is a genuine need for the
family flat.
• An occupancy condition may be applied.
• The proposed unit should be linked directly to the main dwelling by a connecting
door.
• Accommodation must be subsidiary to the main dwelling in scale and only in
exceptional cases will more than one bedroom be permitted where a need has been
demonstrated.
• The design standards for house extensions shall be applied to the family flat.
• Any external doors permitted (to provide access to private / shared open space or for
escape from fire) shall be limited to the side or rear of the house.
• Where required, it will be necessary to demonstrate that the existing on-site
wastewater treatment system serving the main dwelling can facilitate the additional
loading from the family flat. Where this cannot be demonstrated, it will be necessary
for the on-site wastewater treatment system to be upgraded as part of the
development proposal.
It is normal procedure to include conditions in any grant of permission that the family flat
cannot be sold, conveyed or leased separately from the main residence, and that when
the need for the family flat no longer exists the dwelling must be returned to a single
dwelling unit.

15.4.15 Naming of Residential Developments

Placenames are an important part of our cultural heritage and placemaking. The
Council actively seeks to ensure that our rich heritage is protected and enhanced
through the naming of new residential developments. The naming of residential and
other developments shall reflect local heritage by incorporating local placenames or
names of geographical, historical or cultural significance to the site location. It is the
preference of the Council to promote the use of the Irish Language in the first
instance for the naming of new residential developments in the County. Names of
developments shall include the use of the Irish Language, where appropriate and
sensible. Developers shall have regard to the Council’s policy, Naming of New
Residential Developments (2018). The Council will endeavour to review this
document within two years of the making of this Plan.

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All applications for residential development shall provide for the naming of residential
developments in the following manner:
• Three potential names that reflect local heritage shall be submitted as part of a
planning application.
• The three names shall be submitted in both Irish and in English.
• There should be a brief description of the source and reason for the proposed
name of the development having regard to the Council’s Naming of New
Residential Developments (2018).
• Avoid names already used in the county but particularly, in the local area.

15.4.16 Taking in Charge of Residential Developments

The term “Taking in Charge” means that the council assumes liability and
responsibility for the roads, footpaths and public areas associated with a particular
estate. When a residential development is completed in accordance with all the
conditions and particulars of the planning permission, the developer or the majority of
homeowners may make a written request in accordance with the provisions of Section
180 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) to have the estate
taken in charge (roads and services).

The Council’s policy on the taking in charge of residential developments is set out in the
Taking in Charge Policy Statement (June 2008) which is currently under review and
should be considered from the outset (either in its current form or as subsequently
amended), from the initial pre-application stage through to the post construction
phase of a development.

15.5 Social and Community Developments

Any application for community facilities such as childcare, schools, health, community,
and leisure facilities, including open space, sports grounds, playing pitches, and other
community orientated developments, shall have regard to the following:
• Overall need in terms of necessity, deficiency, and opportunity to enhance or
develop local or county facilities.
• Practicalities of sites in terms of site location relative to uses, impact on local
amenities, desirability, and accessibility.
• Conformity with the requirements of appropriate legislative guidelines.
• The potential multifunctional use of community facilities, including daytime and
night-time usage.

15.5.1 Social Infrastructure Audit

As outlined in Chapter 10, any new residential development over 20 units or
commercial developments (including office/industrial developments) over 2,000
square metres, will be required to undertake a social infrastructure audit to determine
if social and community facilities in the area are sufficient to provide for the needs of
the future residents.
Social Infrastructure Audits (SIAs) shall include current provisions in relation to
childcare, education, health, community, sporting, open space, and recreational
facilities in the vicinity (e.g., within a 10-15 minute walk) of the proposed
development. The audit must outline available capacity within each facility and

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identify deficits that exist in such infrastructure, taking into consideration any extant
permission for residential development in the area. Where deficits exist, the applicant
shall propose measures within the development proposal to address same and / or
may be required by the Planning Authority to contribute towards developing such
infrastructure in the area by means of conditions to the permission through the
development contribution scheme. In cases where social infrastructure deficits are
not addressed, permission may be refused.
It should be noted that the Planning Authority has undertaken a number of SIAs to
date as part of the preparation of the Leixlip, Naas and Athy Local Area Plans and will
continue to do so as part of the rollout of the Local Area Plan programme. The content
of any SIAs submitted as part of planning applications can therefore be considered in
the context of SIAs already undertaken, where relevant, in order to develop a
comprehensive database of available social infrastructure to plan for the sustainable
development of communities over the Plan period and beyond.

15.5.2 Childcare Facilities

The Council will seek to facilitate the provision of high-quality childcare facilities in
appropriate locations throughout the county and may require their provision in large
residential, public community, commercial, and retail developments in accordance
with the provisions of the DoEHLG ‘Childcare Facilities Guidelines for Planning
Authorities’ (2001). The guidelines require 20 childcare spaces for every 75 dwelling
units.
As part of the undertaking of a Social Infrastructure Audit (as above), for developments
proposed (residential and / or commercial), the onus shall be on the developer to
demonstrate that there are adequate childcare facilities to cater for the proposed
development. In doing so the developer must; (i) clearly outline, on a map, the location
of each childcare facility relative to the proposed development, (ii) the total number of
childcare spaces on offer at the subject childcare facility with a clear breakdown of the
various types of childcare that are available in each identified facility and (iii) details of
any remaining capacity in each facility. This information must be supported, in writing,
by each of the childcare facilities identified in (i) above and must be confirmed by the
Kildare County Childcare Committee.
Where it is demonstrated that there are inadequate childcare facilities to cater for the
proposed development, developers must incorporate a childcare facility as part of the
overall development proposal, in line with the Childcare Guidelines (or any subsequent
revisions to same).
Any application for childcare facilities shall have regard to the following:
• The need for the proposed development (consult with Kildare County Childcare
Committee).
• The nature of the facility e.g., full day care, sessional care, after school care.
• Number and ages of children to be catered for.
• Number of staff.
• Intended hours of operation,
• Suitability of the site for the type and size proposed.

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• Adequate sleeping / rest facilities.
• Adequate availability of indoor and outdoor play space.
• The internal layout and design, should allow, where possible, for the dual usage of
the proposed facility e.g., night-time community uses.
• Proximity to public transport / areas of employment.
• Local traffic conditions
• Safe access and convenient off-street parking and / or suitable drop-off and
collection points for customers and staff.
• Signage should be minimized and designed into the scheme.
Facilities shall be sited at or near the entrance / exit to the proposed development for
ease of access, drop-off / pick-up points and must be provided in full as part of the first
phase of development and occupied prior to the occupation of any residential unit
within the overall development scheme
Childcare facilities will also be required to be provided in large-scale employment
centres with an excess of 100 employees.
For new residential / commercial developments, the most suitable facility for the
provision of full day care should be a purpose built, ground floor, stand-alone property
with capacity for dual usage e.g., night-time community uses.
Applications in existing residential areas should have regard to the likely effect on the
amenities of adjoining properties, and compliance with the above criteria.
Applicants are recommended to seek the advice of the Kildare County Childcare
Committee, HSE, and other relevant bodies in the design of childcare facilities prior to
the submission of a planning application.
The omission of a crèche previously permitted within a residential development will
not generally be favourably considered.

15.5.3 Educational Facilities

To establish if there is available capacity in the school network to accommodate the
number of students likely to be generated by proposed developments, Social
Infrastructure Audits (as above) with respect to educational facilities, should:
• Identify existing primary and secondary school facilities in the area, their distance
from the site, and the road/cycle network, and public transport facilities available
between the locations.
• Include details of school capacities, existing number of students and capacity for
new intake to be taken cumulatively with other permitted or planned developments
that will impact the intake capacity of these schools.
In general, new schools shall be developed in areas where new/additional schools are
required as identified by the Department of Education and Skills and / or within existing
school/education sites. The Planning Authority will encourage them in built up areas
and / or clustered with other community infrastructure to enable dual usage of
facilities. New schools at edge of town locations should be serviced by safe
sustainable travel infrastructure. Any application for education facilities shall have

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regard to the following:
• Size of site relative to outdoor space requirements and the future needs of the
school (e.g., sufficient space provided for future expansion)
• Traffic and transport impact on the surrounding road network.
• Good, safe accessible pedestrian and cyclist routes to and from the school from
nearby residential and commercial areas.
• Adequate bicycle, and bus parking facilities.
• Set down areas and / or car park facilities within walking distance for drop-off / pick-
up.
• A School Travel Plan shall be submitted with an application for any school
development, requirements of which should be ascertained at pre-planning stage.
• The layout and design of the school shall facilitate possible out of school hours use
by other bodies / community (e.g., sports facilities / halls etc.)
• Boundary treatment to be sensitive to the location and a landscape plan carried
out by a suitably qualified landscape architect.
Temporary classrooms will be assessed on a case-by-case basis and will generally
be accepted for a period not exceeding five years and such classroom developments
shall not impede traffic movements and circulation within the school premises, or
significantly reduce open space. Structures shall be of a high design quality and
painted / coloured to integrate with any existing school structure.
Extensions to schools will generally be accepted where they will replace existing
temporary classroom structures on site. School extensions should be located having
regard to adjoining amenities and amenities within the school site.

15.5.4 Health Facilities & Veterinary Clinic

The Planning Authority will consider applications for health care facilities on their own
merits. In doing so, the Planning Authority will distinguish between small-scale medical
practices involving one to two practitioners (e.g., doctor / dentist / physiotherapist) with
a maximum of two employees, and larger medical practices accommodating two or
more medical practitioners and staff.
15.5.4.1 Large scale and group medical practices:
• Shall be in rural villages, and town centre locations.
• Should not have negative impacts in terms of generating overspill of car parking,
traffic hazards, or negative impacts on adjoining residential amenity.
• Shall complement existing uses / buildings and have only modest signage.
15.5.4.2 Medical practices in residential areas should be:
• Small-scale facilities
• Additions to the existing residential use of a dwelling, and subordinate to it.
• Ideally be in larger detached houses on their own grounds with suitable and
convenient access for those arriving by car, foot, or public transport.

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15.5.4.3 Nursing Homes / Assisted Living Accommodation facilities:
• Should be in established neighbourhoods / residential areas that are well served
by community infrastructure and amenities (e.g., shops, parks, etc.)
• Should be near high quality public transport links and provide good footpath links
from the facilities to same.
• Shall provide at least 20% open space on the overall site area which shall comprise
high quality landscaping to include semi mature trees and the creation of native
hedgerow linkages with adjacent green infrastructure networks.
• Will have regard to potential impact on the residential amenities of adjoining
properties, particularly in relation to overlooking and overshadowing.
15.5.4.4 Veterinary Clinics
In the case of veterinary surgeries, full details of all services provided on site shall be
submitted, including car parking for clients/patients, details of overnight facilities (e.g.,
kennels/staff accommodation) and out of hours services together with noise mitigation
measures, where appropriate.

15.5.5 Community Buildings

The location and provision of community facilities is a pre-requisite to the creation and
enhancement of viable, sustainable, and successful local communities. Such
infrastructure should be available within a 10-minute walk of most residential
developments. It is acknowledged that the catchment for rural areas may be wider.
A general standard for the provision of a community building is not widely available in
Ireland. However, a simplistic standardization which has been employed elsewhere in
neighbourhood planning is: 0.30 community facilities per 1,000 population.
Neighbourhoods may have different requirements as dual usage of school, sports, and
/ or childcare facilities may satisfy local needs.
Any application for community facilities such as community / parish halls,
organizational meeting facilities, sports halls, playing pitches shall have regard to the
following:
• Overall need in terms of necessity / deficiency
• Universal access requirements
• Changing places / toilet facilities
• Bicycle parking / storage
• Potential for dual usage (e.g., childcare, schools, all community groups)
• Accessibility to sustainable travel infrastructure (pedestrian links, bicycle lanes,
and public transport)
• Ensure facilities are accessible to most residential areas within a 10-minute walk
• Practicalities of the site in terms of adjoining uses and impacts on local amenities.

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15.6 Open Space
The role of Open Space is becoming more important to the residents of Kildare and
their quality of life with many settlements developing quickly and at higher densities.
The provision of accessible open space is vital for overall community wellbeing and
can be provided in various forms e.g., Neighbourhood Parks, Local Parks, Amenity
Green Spaces, playing pitches, play areas for children and teenagers, Green
Corridors, and Natural / Semi-Natural Green Spaces. Towns in Kildare will be required
to provide a minimum of 2.5 hectares of Open Space per 1,000 of population which
should include both formal and informal open spaces as follows;
- Formal (Active Open Space, Neighbourhood/local park, Play areas)
- Informal (Parks and Gardens, Amenity Green Space, Natural and semi-natural)
The breakdown and quantum of formal and informal provision will be considered on a
place-by-place basis.
As outlined in 15.5.1 above Social Infrastructure Audits are required to be submitted
for new residential developments at or over 20 units or for commercial developments
(including office/industrial developments) over 2,000 square metres.
Existing open space provision within a 10-minute walk of the development shall be
outlined and assessed against the standards noted above. Open space deficits shall
then be highlighted, and the design proposal will be required to assist in addressing
any deficits.

15.6.1 Active Open Spaces

These are generally playing pitches, courts, and sports grounds. Individual
development is needed to deliver some, or all the space required. However,
contributions via development levies can also assist in the delivery of such
infrastructure for the community. Residents in Kildare towns (as identified in the
settlement hierarchy) should have access to active open space facilities such as
courts, playing pitches / sports grounds within a 10-minute walk of their home.

15.6.2 Neighbourhood / Local Parks

A Neighbourhood Park is generally a large area of parkland of 16 hectares or more
located within 800 metres of the target population and managed as a public park to
facilitate both passive and active recreation.
A Local Park is a small area of parkland of 2 hectares or more located within 400
metres of the target population and managed for passive recreation only.

15.6.3 Amenity Green Spaces

Amenity Green Spaces are generally small areas of open space associated with
individual housing estates. Requirements are outlined in 15.6.6 below. These spaces
shall comprise areas for biodiversity and link (by way of native hedgerows and trees)
with any adjacent green infrastructure networks.

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15.6.4 Natural / Semi-Natural Green Space and Green Corridors
Natural / Semi-Natural Green Space (e.g., undeveloped, or previously developed land
with habitats such as woodland or wetland areas) and Green Corridors (linear green
spaces such as canal and river corridors) also provide valuable open space conserving
biodiversity and enhancing natural drainage, and carbon storage.

15.6.5 Formal / Informal Play Spaces

Formal play spaces are generally designed to facilitate children and teenagers play.
They are usually located within an existing public park or amenity that is easily
accessible from residential areas (e.g. 5-minute walk/400 metres). Developments shall
provide ‘scale appropriate’ children’s play in semi-private or public open spaces
through provision of a scale appropriate Natural Play Area. It is the Planning
Authority’s preference that an imaginative approach is adopted by developers to
delivering play spaces. All play areas shall be natural play spaces with landscaping
and natural features e.g. logs, mounding, boulders, and sensory planting, equipment
with no moving parts. Play features should be centrally located so that they are
accessible and supervised.

15.6.6 Public Open Space for Residential Development

The provision of accessible open space is a key part of the provision of high-quality
green infrastructure for communities. Public open space must be carefully designed
as an integral part of the layout of all residential schemes / mixed schemes from the
outset, being addressed at the initial design stages. All applications for residential
developments shall include a landscape plan, which shall have regard to the Parks
Section ‘Open Space & Landscaping Pre-Planning Guidance for Applicants’
document. It is vital that landscape architects are involved in the early stages of the
design process and attend any pre-planning discussions with the Planning Authority.

Open space shall be provided within the development site as follows:

• On greenfield sites, the minimum area of open space that is acceptable within the
site is 15% of the total site area. This may include Natural / Semi-Natural Green
Spaces incorporating the planting of native species and pollinator friendly areas
which enhance biodiversity up to a maximum of 8%.
• On institutional sites a minimum requirement of 20% of the site area may be
required. This may include Natural / Semi-Natural Green Spaces incorporating the
planting of native species and pollinator friendly areas which enhance biodiversity
up to a maximum of 10%.
• In all other cases, public open space should be provided at the rate of 15% of the
total site area (at a minimum). This may include Natural / Semi-Natural Green
Spaces incorporating the planting of native species and pollinator friendly areas
which enhance biodiversity up to a maximum of 6%.
• A relaxation of these standards may be considered in smaller developments (less
than 8 units) for which a minimum of 10% would be required which includes 4% for
biodiversity.

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• A relaxation of these standards may also be considered on brownfield and / or
regeneration sites where higher residential densities are required. On such sites a
minimum of 10% would be required which includes 4% for biodiversity.
• In cases where standards have been relaxed or where there is a shortfall in the
provision of open space due to the practicalities of the site (e.g., unsuitable due to
topography, flooding, gradient, SuDS, overhead powerlines etc.) the council will
require an equivalent monetary contribution in lieu of remaining open space
provision via the Kildare County Council Development Contribution Scheme.
• SuDS are not generally acceptable as a form of public open space provision,
except where they contribute in a significant and positive way to the design and
quality of open space. Where the Council considers that this is the case, in general
a maximum of 10% of the open space provision shall be taken up by SuDS.
• Each application shall also have regard to the qualitative standards outlined in
Section 4.18 of the Sustainable Residential Development in Urban Areas,
Guidelines for Planning Authorities, DEHLG, (2009).

The following should also be taken into consideration in relation to public open space:
• Areas of public open space should be generally flat. While some undulation may
be incorporated as a design feature, areas with high gradients, containing swales
or attenuation ponds, or otherwise impractical to function effectively as amenity /
play areas, will not be acceptable as open space.
• Narrow tracts of land (less than 10m) or pieces of land ‘left over after planning’ are
not acceptable.
• Areas of open space less than 500 square metres will not be taken in charge by
the council for maintenance purposes.
• Underground tanks and storage systems will not be accepted under public open
space, as part of a SuDS solution.
• Public and semi-private open space in all residential developments will be required
to incorporate natural features that promote children’s play. Opportunities for
children’s play should be addressed as part of the landscape plan.
• Public open space should be innovative in its design approach and functionally
accessible to the maximum number of dwellings within the residential area.
• Public open space should be overlooked by as many dwellings as possible.
• Houses shall not generally be permitted to back onto public open spaces.
• Natural features, e.g., trees, hedgerows, and wetland sites, should be retained,
protected, and incorporated into public open space areas.
• On large sites, areas should be identified for a hierarchy of uses, e.g., more casual
‘pocket parks’ for smaller children to play, informal kick about areas, areas for
passive amenity, etc.
• Appropriate pedestrian and cycle linkages between open spaces should be clearly
indicated on the site layout plan.
• Care should be taken during the design process to connect existing and proposed
areas of open space, thus providing green linkages for wildlife habitats.

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• Care should be taken during the design process to connect proposed open space
with existing open spaces and / or proposed open space in other developments to
form local parks (e.g., when combined may be greater than 2 hectares) and / or
neighbourhood parks (e.g., when combined may be greater than 16 hectares).
• Incorporate pieces of public art into the design of open spaces.

15.6.7 Private Open Spaces – Gardens, Terraces, Balconies

All houses should have an appropriate and useable area of private open space to the
rear of the dwelling. The minimum area of private open space to be provided is set out
in Table 15.2.
Exceptions may be permissible in relation to the development of inner urban infill
where there is a need to protect the established pattern of streets and spaces and the
redevelopment of brownfield / regeneration sites. Flexibility will be considered for well-
designed development proposals.
• It is expected that private open space provided will exceed these standards
whenever possible and such minimum standards will only be acceptable for up to
50% of the units in any development and will be discouraged throughout.
• The front garden should be a minimum length of 6 metres. Where dwellings have
little or no front gardens a defensible space must be created behind the public
footpath, such as a planting strip.
• Rear gardens should be a minimum of 11 metres in depth (22 meters back-to-back
as a general rule) to protect privacy, sunlight, and avoid undue overlooking.
Reductions will be considered for single storey developments and / or innovative
schemes where it can be demonstrated that adequate levels of privacy, natural
lighting, and sunlight can be achieved.
• Narrow strips of incidental open space to the side of houses should not be included
in private open space calculations.
• In certain development circumstances, the requirements set out above may not be
appropriate (e.g., housing requirements for special needs, housing for older
persons/ sheltered housing) particularly where the development is within a 10-
minute walking distance of a public park or other amenity.
• A reduced minimum standard may be accepted for 1 and 2-bedroom houses for
older people, where it is demonstrated that the design of the dwelling is specifically
designed and safeguarded for older persons.
Balconies and terraced areas are the primary form of private open space for apartment
and duplex type schemes. Such spaces shall be accessible from the main living area
and comprise balconies / terraces.

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The minimum private open space standards for Apartments are outlined in Table 15.3:

Unit Type Private Open Space

Studio 4 m2
One Bedroom 5 m2
Two Bedrooms 6 m2
Three Bedrooms 7 m2
Four Bedrooms or more 9 m2
Table 15.3 - Minimum Private Open Space Requirements for Apartments

• It is expected that all private balconies, patios, terraces, or roof gardens comply
with or exceed the minimum standards set out in Table 15.3.
• All private balconies, patios, terraces, or roof gardens shall be located to optimise
solar orientation and designed to minimise overshadowing and overlooking.
• All private balconies, patios, terraces, or roof gardens shall be suitably screened in
a manner complementing the design of the building to provide an adequate level
of privacy and shelter for residents.

15.7 Transport
15.7.1 Walking and Cycling
• New pedestrian and cycle paths shall be designed in accordance with the
Government’s Design Manual for Urban Roads and Streets - 2019 (DMURS), the
national Cycle Manual (2011 and any subsequent updates), Draft GDA Cycle
Network Plan (NTA, 2021) and Section 5.4.1 of this Plan.
• Ensure new development areas are fully permeable for walking and cycling as
outlined in Section 5.4.1 of this Plan.

15.7.2 Cycle Parking

• The Planning Authority requires the provision of a minimum level of secure cycle
parking facilities in association with new development and changes of use. This is
consistent with the objectives and policies of the National Sustainable Mobility
Policy (2022) and the Draft GDA Cycle Network Plan (NTA, 2021).
• New cycle parking shall be designed in accordance with the National Cycle
Manual (2011 and any subsequent updates).
• Where the provision of cycle parking facilities is intended for use by the staff of a
particular development, stands should be covered, well lit and located within the
curtilage of developments to ensure security and supervision.
• Cycle stands for use by visitors should be located to maximise convenience to the
entrance of buildings, and positioned so as to ensure safety, security and
supervision.
• The cycle parking standards set out in Table 15.4 shall be taken as minimum
standards.

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Accommodation
1 space per bedroom + 1 visitor space per
Apartments
2 apartments
1 space per 10 bedrooms + 1 space per 5
Hotel / Guesthouse
staff
1 space per 10 residents + 1 space per 5
Nursing Home
staff
1 space per bedroom + 1 visitor space per
Student Accommodation
5 bedrooms

Retail
1 space per 20 sqm gross floor area or 1
<100 sqm GFA
space per car space, whichever is greater
1 space per 40 sqm gross floor area or 1
> 100 sqm GFA and <500 sqm GFA space per 2 car spaces, whichever is
greater
1 space per 10 car parking spaces or 1
>500 GFA space per 100 sqm gross floor area,
whichever is greater

Warehousing / Showrooms 1 space per 250 sqm gross floor area

Other Commercial

Bank / Financial Institution 1 space per 100 sqm gross floor area
Lounge / Bar / Restaurant / Café / 1 space per 30 sqm dining / public
Function Room floorspace
Enterprise / Employment

Industry / Manufacturing 1 space per 100sqm gross floor area

Warehousing 1 space per 100sqm gross floor area

Office 1 space per 50 sqm gross floor area

Education / Childcare
1 space per 5 staff + 1 space per 10
Crèche
children
Primary School 1 space per 5 staff + 1 space per 5 students
Secondary School 1 space per 5 staff + 1 space per 3 students
University / College of Higher
1 space per 5 staff + 1 space per 2 students
Education
Medical

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 Hospital 1 space per 5 staff + 1 space per 10 beds
1 space per 5 staff + 0.5 space per
Clinic / Group Medical Practices
consulting room
Community / Recreational
Theatre, Cinema, Stadium, Place of
1 space per 10 seats
Worship
Playing Fields 20 spaces per pitch
Gymnasium / Recreation Centre 1 space per 50 sqm gross floor area

Community Centre / Library 1 space per 10 sqm gross floor area

Funeral Home 1 space per 15 sqm gross floor area

Table 15.4 - Minimum Cycle Parking Standards

Along with cycle parking, sufficient shower and changing facilities should be made
available in larger commercial developments/places of employment. The standards set
out in Table 15.5 shall apply.

Office developments: Non-office development:

• 250 m2 - 500 m2: 1 shower • 1 shower for the first 5 cycle parking
• 500 m2 - 1000 m2: 2 showers spaces.
• 1 shower per additional 1000 m2 1 shower per 10 cycle parking spaces
thereafter thereafter.
Table 15.5 - Shower and Changing Facilities Provision*
* Unless otherwise agreed with the Planning Authority.

• Changing/drying areas, toilets and lockers should be provided in association with

shower facilities.
• The Planning Authority will allow a degree of flexibility in town and village centre
locations, where sites may be constrained. Where cycle parking would be better
provided at communal, strategic locations around the town centre, a financial
contribution in lieu of cycle parking will be considered, in accordance with the
Development Contributions Scheme.
• The Council may also request the provision of public cycle parking facilities, where
possible at existing transport nodes, public buildings, retail centres and other
locations not specified in Table 15.4.

15.7.3 Public Transport

• All new development should be designed to maximise permeability and
connectivity to public transport networks in accordance with the provisions of the
‘Design Manual for Urban Roads and Streets’ (DMURS, 2019).
• Roads should generally be designed to include infrastructure for bus services
unless otherwise advised by the Road Authority;
• New / improved bus stops shall be of a suitable ‘raised’ design in order to assist
mobility-impaired passengers in boarding/leaving the vehicle;

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 • Bus shelters should be sited and designed taking account of the needs of the bus
users and the visual sensitivity of the location of the proposed shelter. All bus
shelters shall be designed with the security of the user in mind, including adequate
lighting.
• In considering applications for bus shelters with associated advertising, the
planning authority will have regard to the particular circumstances of each case,
such as location, scale and type of advertising proposed and the effect on the
amenities of the area and streetscape.

15.7.4 Road and Street Network

• The principles, approaches and standards set out in the Design Manual for Urban
Roads and Streets (2019) apply to the design of all urban roads and streets (with
a speed limit of 60 km/h or less), except national roads and in exceptional
circumstances, certain urban roads and streets with the written consent of the
relevant Authority.
• The standards set out in the TII publication DN-GEO-03031 Rural Road Link
Design (2017) applies to Single and Dual Carriageway roads (including
Motorways) in rural areas. It also applies to single carriageway Urban Relief Roads
and Urban Dual Carriageways and Motorways.
• The Council requires the submission of a Traffic and Transport Assessment (TTA)
as part of planning applications for larger developments, as outlined in Table 15.6
below, in accordance with the TII publication PE-PDV-02045 Traffic and Transport
Assessment Guidelines (2014). These guidelines advise that applicants should
consult with the Transportation Department of the Council prior to submission of
an application.

Traffic to and from the development exceeds 10% of the traffic flow on the adjoining
road.
Traffic to and from the development exceeds 5% of the traffic flow on the adjoining
road where congestion exists or the location is sensitive.*
Residential development in excess of 200 dwellings.
Retail and leisure development in excess of 1,000m2.
Office, education and hospital development in excess of 2,500m2.
Industrial development in excess of 5,000m2.
Distribution and warehousing in excess of 10,000m2.

Table 15.6 - Traffic Management Guidelines Thresholds for Transport

* In locations that experience particularly heavy congestion and when traffic flows from a
proposed development are less than 5% of the traffic flows on the adjoining road, a Transport
Assessment may still be required. When in doubt, the requirement for a Transport
Assessment should always be scoped with the relevant local authority.

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• The design of development proposals must address the functionality and safety of
the road. Two processes specifically address these design concerns: Road Safety
Impact Assessment (RSIA) and Road Safety Audit (RSA).
A) Road Safety Impact Assessment (RSIA) is described in the EU Directive on
Road Infrastructure Safety Management (EU RISM) 2008/96/EC as a strategic
comparative analysis of the impact of a new road, or in instances of substantial
modifications to an existing road, on the safety and performance of the road
network. (Refer to TII standards: PE-PMG-02001 Road Safety Impact
Assessment, 2017)
B) Road Safety Audit (RSA) involves the evaluation of road schemes during
design, construction and early operation to identify potential hazards to all road
users. RSA is to be carried out on all new national road infrastructure projects
and on any schemes/proposal which results in a permanent change to the
layout of a national road. (Refer to TII standard: GE-STY-01024 Road Safety
Audit, 2017 and GE-STY-01027 Road Safety Audit Guidelines, 2017).

15.7.5 Stopping Distances and Sightlines

• Sightline requirements are determined by the Council on a case-by-case basis.
Factors including the type, speed limit and condition of the road are taken into
consideration.
• Where sightlines are inadequate and would give rise to a traffic hazard,
development will not be permitted.
• Where the improvement of sightlines requires the removal of hedgerow,
developers must retain as much of the existing hedgerow as possible and must
provide a clear justification for the extent of removal of any hedgerow which will be
considered by the Planning Authority when assessing planning applications.
Planning permission may be refused where the Planning Authority concludes that
excessive hedgerow is being removed in order to achieve adequate sightlines.
Notwithstanding the above, where any hedgerow is being removed, with the
consent of the Planning Authority, the applicant shall submit detailed landscape
proposals to minimise the impact.
• In cases where an access already exists with inadequate sightlines, it is Council
policy to recommend the closing-up of this entrance prior to the use of an
alternative access with adequate sightlines.
• All applications for planning permission must clearly indicate the sightlines
available at the proposed access.

15.7.6 Access Requirements

• Generally, where the capacity, width, alignment, or surface condition of the road
are inadequate, development will not be favoured.
• Where new development would adversely impact on road drainage, development
will not be permitted unless applicants agree proposals with the Council to improve
the road.

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• Generally, it is the policy of the Council to discourage the proliferation of access
points onto public roads, particularly in areas where the maximum speed limit
applies or where road safety is of concern in accordance with the objectives in
Section 5.6. The Council also encourages and promotes shared access points in
all circumstances.
• Where the removal of hedgerow is required in order to achieve sight lines, the
minimum amount of hedgerow shall be removed (see Section 15.2.4 above). Any
new boundary should be planted with suitable indigenous species as outlined in
section 15.2.4.
• The provision of sheep / cattle grids in new developments adjacent to the Curragh
will be mandatory.
• In accordance with the Spatial Planning and National Roads Guidelines for
Planning Authorities, DECLG (2012), 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 50kph apply shall be avoided.

15.7.7 Building Lines

• Where developments are permitted in rural areas along National, Regional and
County Roads it is the policy of the Council to require compliance with the minimum
setbacks as set out in Table 15.7. All measurements are taken from the nearest
edge of the road surface. In situations where there is an established building line,
new houses, where appropriate, shall conform to the established building line.

Motorways 91m
National Primary 91m
National Secondary 91m
Regional Road 31m
County Road 18.5m
Table 15.7 - Building Lines from Public Roads in Rural Areas
Where developments are proposed within an area adjacent to a National or Regional
Road, the Planning Authority will have regard to the requirements of Transport
Infrastructure Ireland and The National Roads Design Office in relation to Building
Lines.
• Building lines in developed areas will be determined having regard to the historic
urban grain of the area and the need to provide pedestrian friendly streets with a
sense of enclosure. Proposed developments should have regard to Chapter 14
Urban Design Guidelines on this matter.
• Proposals for residential developments near busy roads in urban areas and
adjacent to transportation corridors will be required to demonstrate how the
impacts of noise are avoided, prevented or mitigated and shall have regard to
planning guidance issued by the Local Authority or nationally. A key element is a
Noise Impact Assessment / Acoustic Design Statement report to demonstrate the
application of good acoustic design to ensure:

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 i) Units or blocks have been spatially located within the site to minimise noise
impact from in-borne transportation noise
ii) Noise sensitive rooms within each unit or block have been designed so as to
minimise in-borne noise impact
iii) adequate building ventilation and thermal comfort, in all living areas (e.g.,
living rooms, bedrooms) with openable windows in accordance with the
internal noise level guidelines, as outlined in BS 8233:2014, ‘Guidance on
sound insulation and noise reduction for buildings;
iv) private external amenity areas can be enjoyed as intended taking
cognisance of environmental noise levels.
• Where a development requires that the existing roads / footpaths and public
lighting be improved / extended, or any other works carried out to facilitate a
development, the developer may be required to provide these as a condition of
planning permission.

15.7.8 Car Parking

• Car parking standards are set out in Table 15.8 below to guide proposed
development. Parking standards are maximum standards. Residential
development in areas within walking distances of town centres (800 metres i.e. a
10-minute walk) and high-capacity public transport services (including but not
limited to Dart+ services, Bus Connects routes and any designated bus only or
bus priority route) should be designed to provide for fewer parking spaces, having
regard to the need to balance demand for parking against the need to promote
more sustainable forms of transport, to limit traffic congestion and to protect the
quality of the public realm from the physical impact of parking. Therefore, the
number of spaces provided should not exceed the maximum provision set out
below.
• The use of shared car schemes will be encouraged in appropriate town centre
and urban locations.

Residential
1 space each for units up to and
including 3 bed units and 1 space + 0.5
House
visitor spaces for units of 4 bedrooms or
greater
1.5 spaces per unit + 1 visitor space per
Apartment
4 apartments
Other Accommodation
Hotel / Guesthouse 1 per bedroom
Nursing Home 1 per 3 residents
To be determined by the Planning
Student Accommodation
Authority on a case-by-case basis

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Retail
Convenience 1 per 20sqm gross floor area
Convenience > 1000 sq m GFA 1 per 15 sqm gross floor area
Comparison 1 per 20sqm gross floor area
Warehousing / Showrooms 1 per 30 sqm gross floor area
Other Commercial
Bank / Financial Institution 1 per 14sqm gross floor area
Lounge / Bar 1 per 15sqm gross floor area
Restaurant / Cafe 1 per 10sqm gross floor area
Takeaway 1 per 20sqm gross floor area
Function Room, Club 1 per 10sqm gross floor area
Enterprise / Employment
Industry / Manufacturing 1 per 33 sqm gross floor area
Warehousing 1 per 100sqm gross floor area
Office Town Centre 1 per 30 sqm gross floor area
1 per 20 sqm gross floor area
Office Park Where the floor area exceeds 1500 sqm,
1 space per 50 sqm
Education / Childcare
0.5 per staff member plus 1 per 4
Crèche
children
Primary School 2 per classroom
Secondary School 2 per classroom
University / College of Higher Education 1 per classroom + 1 per 5 students
Medical
Hospital 1.5 per bed
Clinic / Group Medical Practices 2 per consulting room
Community / Recreational
Theatre, Cinema 1 per 4 seats
Church or other place of worship 1 per 4 seats

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 Stadium 1 space per 3 seats
Playing fields 15 spaces per pitch
Gymnasium / Recreation Centre 1 per 15 sqm gross floor area
Community Centre / Library 1 per 10 sqm gross floor area
Funeral Home 1 per 10 sqm gross floor area
Table 15.8 - Maximum Car Parking Standards

• The Council reserves the right to alter the requirements outlined above, having
regard to the circumstances of each particular development, on a case-by-case
basis. For any use not specified, the default parking rate will be calculated based
on those of a comparable use and / or as part of a Transport and Traffic
Assessment.
• Additionally, the maximum provision of parking should not be viewed as a target.
Lower rates of parking and car-free developments should be considered in the first
instance, particularly where such developments are close to and can avail of public
transport. In addition, the Council will have regard to:
o The proximity of the site to the town centre and services that fulfil day-to-
day needs;
o The potential for linked trips (where multiple needs are fulfilled in one
journey);
o The nature of the uses of the site and likely durations of stays;
o Park and Stride initiatives;
o The nature of surrounding uses and potential for dual use of parking spaces
depending on peak hours of demand;
o Proximity to public car-parking areas;
o The need to protect the vibrancy of town centres and regenerate vacant /
underused buildings;
o Any modal shift demonstrated through a Traffic and Mobility Assessment;
and
o The suitability of a contribution in lieu of parking in accordance with the
Development Contribution Scheme, as part of a grant of planning
permission.
• The Council will normally require the provision of car parking spaces within the
curtilage of the site or convenient to the development.
• The Council requires the submission of a Mobility Management Plan with planning
applications where developments include substantial parking requirements. This
should outline a series of measures to encourage sustainable travel modes and
reduce car- borne traffic within a development
• The safe movement of walkers and cyclists shall be prioritized with a requirement
to provide safe segregated cycling/walking routes where developments include
substantial parking requirements.

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• In addition to car parking standards, sufficient space will be required within the
curtilage of the site for all service vehicles involved in the operation of the business
or building. Set down / drop-off areas and coach parking areas should be provided
as appropriate.
• The minimum size for a car parking space shall be:
o Car parking bay: 2.5m x 5.0m
o Car parking bay (disability / accessible space): 5m x 3.75m
o Loading bays: 3m x 6m.
o Circulation aisles: 6m wide.
o 5% of parking spaces in non-residential developments should be set aside
for disabled parking.
• The electric vehicle charging infrastructure requirements are set out in Table 15.9
below to guide proposed development.

New buildings or buildings undergoing As per Chapter 5 - Objective TM O117

major renovations (containing one or and TM O118.
more than one dwelling)
New buildings or buildings undergoing As per Chapter 5 - Objective TM O117.
major renovations (other than a dwelling)

Table 15.9 - Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Requirements

• New residential development should take account of the different criteria regarding
car parking including:
o A reduction of car parking standards will be considered on a case-by-case
basis, having regard to ‘Sustainable Urban Housing: Design Standards for
New Apartments (2020)’ where applicable.
o Vehicular parking for detached and semi-detached housing which should be
within the curtilage of the subject house;
o Vehicular parking for apartments, where appropriate, should generally be at
basement or undercroft level. Where this is not possible, parking for
apartments and terraced housing should be in informal groups overlooked
by residential units;
o The visual impact of large areas of parking should be reduced by the use of
screen planting including semi mature native trees connecting to existing
green infrastructure networks, where possible, low walls and the use of
different textured or coloured paving for car parking bays; and
o Parking spaces for visitors should be a minimum of 10% of the overall
number of parking spaces provided in new residential developments.
o New or substantially expanded private car parks will be required to erect
appropriate signage clearly indicating to the public that they are a privately
owned facility as a condition of any granting of permission for such
development.

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15.7.9 Street Lighting and Public Utilities
• Street lighting should, at a minimum, comply with the standards set out in the most
recent revision of the Kildare County Council document ‘Street Lighting Technical
Specification’ and Section 5.12 of this Plan.
• The planning authority may require residential schemes to comply with any
forthcoming “National Specification for Public Lighting”.
• Adequate public lighting should be provided for road safety reasons and for the
safety of all pedestrians, cyclists and minority groups. Lighting levels within a new
development must create a secure environment. Dark corners and alleyways must
be avoided.
• Require all lighting design strategies to be developed to minimise impacts on
biodiversity, particularly bats, in accordance with Section 5.12 of this Plan.
• Landscape Proposals should detail public lighting locations and ensure tree
planting will not compromise any proposed street lighting in accordance with
Section 5.12 of this plan.
• Where a residential development has not yet been taken in charge by the County
Council, the developer is responsible for the management and maintenance of the
public lighting in the development, including the payment of all utility bills.
• To preserve the amenity and visual character of an area, and in the interests of
public safety, all services including electricity, public lighting, telephone, broadband
and television cables shall be provided underground in appropriate ducting in all
new developments. Provision should be made for the unobtrusive siting of
transformer stations, pumping stations and other necessary service buildings. Pole
mounted equipment (such as transformers) will not be permitted.
• The Planning Authority will require utility boxes to be carefully integrated into the
surrounding environment. Conditions may be included in permissions in relation to
external materials and screening for such utility boxes or any above ground
installations.

15.8 Surface Water

Sustainable Drainage Systems are the most appropriate way to managing surface
water run-off. Nature Based Surface Water Management solutions should be
considered in the first instance as they are measures which are inspired and supported
by nature.
Sustainable drainage uses both landscaped features and harder engineering.
Landscape features include green roofs, and more natural features such as ponds,
wetlands, and shallow vegetated channels (swales). Harder engineered SuDS
components, such as permeable paving, and soakaways can be used particularly in
high density developments.
Sustainable drainage needs to be considered as early as possible in the planning
process to reduce the need for retrofit solutions and should be imaginatively designed
by a multi-disciplinary team comprising of engineering, landscape, architecture and
ecological professionals. The management of surface water run-off is a key
consideration in the assessment of planning applications.

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 All planning applications for developments shall include proposals for the following 3:
- Detailed proposals for the management of surface water, where Nature Based
Surface Water Management solutions are considered and prioritised in the first
instance. Groundwater monitoring, if required, should last at least 6 months
and include at least one winter season.
- A Surface Water Management Plan shall be submitted which includes details
inter alia the location, design and any future maintenance proposals /
procedures required to maintain the surface water management system.
- Proposals for surface water management shall be in compliance with the
Greater Dublin Drainage Strategy (GDSDS), in particular Volume 2 Chapter 6
Stormwater Drainage Design Criteria, and CIRIA SuDS Manual (C753) and
with Nature-Based Solutions to the Management of Rainwater and Surface
Water Runoff in Urban Areas Best Practice Interim Guidance Document (2021,
DHLGH).
- In the event that a Nature Based Surface Water Management solution is not
feasible, detailed information must be submitted to explain why it was not
considered to be a practical solution. Traditional drainage systems will only be
permitted where a demonstrable exceptional circumstance has been provided.
- Sustainable Drainage Systems should not form part of the public open space
provision, except where they contribute in a significant and positive way to the
design and quality of open space. In instances where the Council determines
that SuDS make a significant and positive contribution to open space, a
maximum 10% of the open space provision shall be taken up by SuDS.
- In the event that underground attenuation storage structures are required, they
will not be accepted under areas of public open space, save in exceptional
demonstrable situations.
- All existing site watercourses shall be retained and existing site pipework
should be “de-culverted” where feasible.

15.9 Employment Including Extractive Industry and Agricultural

Buildings
The above uses have significant potential to impact on the landscape. Applications will
be required to ensure that development is in accordance with the guidance provided
in Chapter 13 Landscape, Recreation and Amenity, in particular Tables 13.3 and 13.4,
having regard to the compatibility between the land-use and the principal Landscape
Character Areas of the county, and the proximity to Landscape Sensitivity Factors.

15.9.1 Employment Uses

The following information should be submitted as part of any application for industrial
/ commercial / business development:
• Details of the nature and scale of the proposed operation, to include opening hours
and anticipated traffic levels.

3Insufficient details submitted at planning application stage may incur requests for additional information or
a refusal of planning permission.

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• Availability of adequate services to cater for the development, or the ability of the
applicant to provide these services in a manner which does not adversely impact
on surrounding properties or the broader environment.
• Proposals for the safe storage and disposal of waste in a manner which is visually
and environmentally acceptable.
• Storage should generally be confined to the rear of the premises; height should be
such that the materials stored are adequately screened either by the building unit
or an alternative screening method.
• Compatibility of existing adjacent land uses with the proposed development, and
mitigation measures to preserve and protect the amenity of the adjacent uses,
should this be necessary.
• Availability of adequate sight lines (or a demonstration by the applicant to provide
same) as per the relevant NRA Standards and safe road access for anticipated
levels of traffic to be generated by the proposed development. Generally, only one
vehicular access point will be permitted.
• Adequate parking and circulation areas should be provided by the applicant within
the curtilage of the proposed development, unless otherwise agreed with the
planning authority.
• Advertising signage shall be detailed at planning application stage and shall be
sympathetic in size, scale, design, materials and colour with the surrounding
landscape / streetscape. Lighting should be unobtrusive and should not adversely
affect traffic safety on adjacent roads.

15.9.2 Industry and Warehousing Development

Industry and warehousing schemes will be required to present a good quality
appearance, helped by landscaping and careful placing of advertisement structures.
In relation to industrial development the following should be taken into consideration:
• Individual buildings should exhibit a high quality of modern architectural design and
finish (including the use of colour). Prominent corner-face of buildings shall be
appropriately articulated;
• In the case of two or more industrial / warehouse units, a uniform design is required
for boundary treatments, roof profiles and building lines;
• Areas between the building and road boundary may include car parking spaces
provided adequate screen planting is incorporated into the design proposal;
• Adequate provision shall be made on the site for parking of vehicles, storage and
stacking space. Storage and stacking areas shall be located to the rear of the
building or, where such facilities are located at the side, provision for screening
shall be made;
• The building line from adjoining land-uses will be determined at Local Area Plan
level having regard to the nature of uses and site-specific matters, or in accordance
with Section 15.7.7 of this Plan;
• The front building line shall be as determined in consultation with the planning
authority and, where required, the existing roadside boundary shall be set back;
• Any industrial or commercial development shall not be injurious to the residential
amenity of adjoining properties;

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• A landscaping plan shall be included with any planning application which details
landscaped areas to the front of the building line and the provision of a buffer zone
(minimum 5-10 metres) where the development adjoins another zoning or where it
would impact on the amenities of adjoining land uses;
• Proposals shall be submitted to incorporate Sustainable urban Drainage Systems
(SuDS) and other nature-based surface water drainage solutions as part of all
plans and development proposals. Priority shall be given to SuDS that incorporate
green infrastructure and promote biodiversity including green roofs, walls and rain
gardens, with underground retention solutions only being considered when all other
options have been exhausted.
• Other measures that address climate change shall include the encouragement and
support of solar and wind energy as part of any proposals.
• Signage shall be an appropriate scale and designed into the scheme.
• Any mechanical plant or air handling units shall be appropriately screened.

15.9.3 Business and Technology Parks

Planning applications for new Business and Technology Parks shall be brought
forward in the context of a masterplan for the subject lands. The masterplan shall be
consistent with the policies and objectives of this Plan and shall include the following:
• Prominent corner / face of buildings shall be appropriately articulated.
• A comprehensive landscaping and boundary treatment plan for the overall site,
with particular attention placed on boundaries facing public realms and roads;
• A Green Infrastructure Plan which retains and enhances where possible existing
wetland habitat, hedgerow, woodlands, meadows and habitats of species
protected under European legislation and National Wildlife Acts & provides for
wildlife corridors;
• Creates new green infrastructure assets such as public open space, ponds, green
roofs, green walls, tree planting, street trees and natural pollination zones;
• Increases and improves ecological corridor connectivity and pedestrian and cycle
path linkages with existing green infrastructure assets in the area. Where a large
site adjoins a green corridor, a public open space or an area of high ecological
value, any new public open space on the site should be contiguous to same to
encourage visual continuity and expansion of biodiversity which can assist in
expanding the green infrastructure network;
• Incorporates Nature Based Drainage Systems such as ponds, bio- retention
areas, detention basins, infiltration basins, filter strips, street trees, wetlands,
swales and rain gardens.
• A Green Roof covering a minimum of 60% of the roof shall be provided for roof
areas greater than 300 m² unless a suite of complementary or alternative ‘soft’
SuDS measures as detailed above are proposed. A proposal that relies solely on
attenuation storage systems and/ or permeable paving as an alternative to the
provision of a Green Roof will not be acceptable.
• Signage shall be an appropriate scale and designed into the scheme.
• Any mechanical plant or air handling units shall be appropriately scaled.

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In addition, the following details shall be submitted with any planning application for
new Business and Technology Parks;
• Full details of the proposed use(s), including industrial processes (where
applicable) and hours of operation;
• Details of suitable access arrangements, internal road layouts, including details of
footpaths, turning areas and loading bays.
• Permeability and pedestrian and/ or cyclist friendly environments within the overall
site in accordance with the NTA’s Permeability Best Practice Guide (2015);
• Overall traffic assessment;
• Car and bicycle parking provision shall be in accordance with Sections 15.7.2 and
15.7.8 of this Plan, respectively, and shall provide, a discreet, landscaped and well-
screened environment with a view to minimising its visual impact, particularly
when viewed from approach roads;
• Provision for future access to adjoining third party lands will be required to run to
the site boundary without any ransom strips.
The above list is not exhaustive and the Council may require additional information,
as necessary, on a case by case basis.

15.9.3.1 Individual Units in Business and Technology Parks

The design and siting of individual units in Business and Technology Parks shall
comply with the principles of any Design Statement prepared as part of the masterplan
for the overall site. In general,
• Individual buildings should exhibit a high-quality contemporary design and finish,
within an agreed scheme;
• Car and bicycle parking shall be provided in a discreet, landscaped and well-
screened environment with a view to minimising their visual impact, particularly
when viewed from approach roads;
• The building line on all main road frontages should generally not be less than 15
metres from the road and there should be a minimum planted strip of a width of 5
metres (minimum) on all principle road frontages; and
• Any mechanical plant or air handling units shall be appropriately screened.

15.9.3.2 Energy Efficiency and Climate Change Adaptation Design Statement

(Industry, Warehousing, Business and Technology Parks)
Development proposals for Industrial, Warehousing, Business and Technology Park
developments in excess of 1,000 m² of commercial floor space should be
accompanied by an Energy Efficiency and Climate Change Adaptation Design
Statement.
The statement should detail how any on-site demolition, construction and long-term
management of the development will be catered for and how energy and climate
change adaptation considerations have been inherently addressed in the design and
planning of the scheme.
Such developments shall have regard to;
• the requirements of the current Building Regulations Part L – Conservation of Fuel
and Energy (2008 and 2011), and any other supplementary or superseding
Regulations or guidance documents.

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• the DECLG guidance document ‘Towards nearly Zero Energy Buildings in Ireland
- Planning for 2020 and Beyond’, which promotes the increase of near Zero Energy
Buildings (nZEB).
New development proposals shall show how energy efficiency is achieved through
siting, layout, design and incorporate best practice in energy technologies,
conservation and smart technology.
The author of an Energy Efficiency and Climate Change Adaptation Design Statement
should be appropriately qualified or competent and shall provide details of their
qualifications and experience along with the statement.

15.9.4 Outdoor Smoking Areas

Outdoor smoking in front of buildings can seriously distract from the amenities and
appearance of spaces. This issue is of particular concern at public buildings and
buildings with large numbers of employees. It shall be a requirement of planning
permission that smoking areas are sheltered and located away from entrances and
other prominent places, in order to avoid a negative impact on individuals accessing
the building and/or on the appearance of the public realm.

15.9.5 Loading and Unloading

In addition to the general car parking requirements, service parking spaces may be
required for cars or other vehicles not necessarily involved in the operation of the
business or a particular building, e.g. delivery and collection of goods. In all major
developments of an industrial / commercial nature, developers will be required to
provide loading and unloading facilities sufficient to meet the likely demand of such
development.

15.9.6 Extractive Industry

When assessing planning applications for quarry and ancillary developments, the
Council will have regard to;
• Section 261 and Section 261A of the Planning and Development Act, 2000 (as
amended);
• the Quarries and Ancillary Activities Guidelines 2004 and any amendments to the
Guidelines which may be made, and
• the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) publication ‘Environmental
Management in the Extractive Industry (non– scheduled minerals)’ 2006.

In addition to the above, all planning applications for quarry and ancillary
developments, such as batching plants, crushing and screening, shall appropriately
detail the environmental baseline of the area in which extraction is proposed, the likely
impacts and proposed mitigation measures relating to;
• Human health;
• Groundwater, surface water and important aquifers and compliance with the
objectives of the Water Framework Directive;
• Natura 2000 sites (Special Areas of Conservation and Special Protection Areas),
Natural Heritage Areas, proposed Natural Heritage Areas and other sites for
environmental or ecological protection such as Statutory Nature Reserves, Ramsar
Sites, Wildfowl Sanctuary and Biogenetic Reserves;
• Flora and fauna;

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• Sensitive local receptors such as residences, Areas of High Amenity, Landscape
Sensitivity Areas, Key Scenic Views and Prospects, and Key Amenity Routes as
outlined in Chapter 13 of this Plan;
• Landscaping, berms and screening proposals;
• Local transportation networks with particular reference to details of haul routes, trip
movements and articulated lorry weights;
• Noise, vibration, and dust emissions; and
• Archaeological and architectural heritage of the area.

Planning applications shall also include general details on the proposed development
as follows:
• Project description:
• Map(s) showing (a) total site area, (b) area to be excavated, (c) any ancillary
proposed development, (d) nearest dwellings or any other development (within 1
km of the site); Description of aggregate to be extracted and / or processed;
• Description of cumulative impact when taken together with all other quarries in the
vicinity;
• Method of extraction and equipment to be used;
• Details of storage of materials and overburden;
• Total and annual tonnage of extracted aggregates, expected life of the extraction,
maximum extent and depth of working;
• Details of any blasting;
• Fuel and chemical storage;
• Floor levels showing depths of extraction.
• Phasing programme for extraction and rehabilitation;
• Restoration and after care proposals for the site (plans and section drawings),
including long-term quarry face stability, long-term water pollution potential and
control, removal of buildings, plant and machinery, fencing and security.
• Remediation plans provide for environmental benefit, biodiversity, and re-wilding
rather than simply re-grassing and reverting back to agricultural use / sheep
grazing.

In order to facilitate the sustainable development of the extractive industry, the Council
will require the lodgement of a financial bond to ensure the satisfactory reinstatement
of the site following the completion of extraction and the payment of an adequate
contribution towards the upgrading or repair of the local road network.

Traffic Assessments and Road Safety Audits may be required as part of any
application. Proposals for batching plants, crushing, and screening on exhausted
quarry sites are required to provide details on the source of aggregate and also the
number of expected trips from source to plant and then from plant to offsite.
Note:
• The Council favours the use of existing authorised and planning compliant
quarries over proposals for extraction from green field sites.
• The Planning Authority, may in certain instances, depending on the size and
characteristics of the proposed development, require the preparation of a Natura
Impact Statement, Environmental Impact Statement, and other assessments.
However, it should be noted that the Council may require additional information,
as necessary, on a case-by-case basis.

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15.9.7 Home-Based Economic Activity
Home based economic activity, defined as small scale commercial activity carried out
by residents of a house, being subordinate and ancillary to the use of the house as a
single dwelling unit will only be granted to the resident of the dwelling and will be
restricted to use by the applicant. Permission will not normally be granted for such
changes of uses in apartments.
Planning applications for home based economic activity shall contain (at a minimum)
the following details, though the Council may require additional information, as
necessary, on a case-by-case basis;
• The nature and extent of the work;
• The effects on the amenities of adjoining occupiers, particularly in relation to hours
of work, noise and general disturbance;
• Anticipated levels of traffic generated by the proposed development and the
potential increased demand for parking;
• Arrangements for the storage of refuse and collection of waste;
• Appropriate levels of screening / landscaping; and
• Whether or not the proposed development will be open to visiting members of the
public.
Applications may be subject to a temporary permission, in order to enable the planning
authority to monitor the impact of the development.

15.9.8 Agricultural Developments

The traditional form of agricultural buildings is disappearing with the onset of advanced
construction methods and a wider range of materials. Some new farm buildings have
the appearance of industrial buildings and, due to their scale and mass can have
serious visual impacts.
• In the construction and layout of agricultural buildings, the Council will require that
buildings be sited as unobtrusively as possible, working with the contours of the
land and that the finishes and colours used blend into the surroundings. 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, materials, and finishes.
• Appropriate roof colours are dark grey, dark reddish brown or a very dark green.
Where cladding is used on the exterior of farm buildings, dark colours (preferably
dark green, red, or grey) with matt finishes will normally be required.
• New agricultural buildings shall be located within or adjacent to existing farm
buildings, unless it has been demonstrated, to the satisfaction of the Planning
Authority, that the building must be located elsewhere for essential operational
reasons. The grouping of agricultural buildings will be encouraged in order to
reduce their overall impact in the interests of amenity;
• The removal of hedges to accommodate agricultural developments shall only be
permitted with the written agreement of the Planning Authority and shall only be
considered as a last resort. It is important that hedgerows are retained in order to
maintain and enhance existing green infrastructure networks in the interests of
biodiversity. When retaining boundary hedgerows, the council requires suitably
sized infill planting where possible. A landscaping plan is required as part of an
application for agricultural development and should include screening and

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 shelterbelt planting, composed principally of native species as listed in section
15.2.4 Chapter 15, Development Management Standards.
• Other considerations which will arise in agricultural developments will be traffic
safety, pollution control, and the satisfactory treatment of effluents, smells and
noise. Proper provision for disposal of liquid and solid wastes must be made. In
addition, the size and form of buildings and the extent to which they can be
integrated into the landscape will be factors which will govern the acceptability or
otherwise of such development.
• Agricultural developments shall also demonstrate that the proposal does not
impact significantly upon Special Areas of Conservation (SACs), Special
Protection Areas (SPAs), Natural Heritage Areas (NHAs), Areas of High Amenity,
Landscape Sensitivity Areas, Key Scenic Views and Prospects and Key Amenity
Routes, sites of heritage or cultural value, or areas at risk of flooding.
• Proposals for preventing surface water run-off onto the public road shall be
included with planning applications.

15.9.8.1 Piggeries and Intensive Poultry Units

In addition to the requirements of 15.9.8, proposed piggeries and intensive poultry
units shall;
• Detail methods for waste management including frequency and location of disposal
relative to proposed unit;
• Demonstrate the availability of sufficient land for land spreading by submitting
maps showing the location of all spread lands and outlining the time of spread;
• Outline storage tank capacities;
• Detail distance from watercourses, with a minimum distance of 30 metres in all
cases;
• Detail distance from houses and public buildings, with a minimum distance of 100
metres except with the consent of the owner; and
• Detail distance from European designated sites and the need for Appropriate
Assessment.
• Include details of air pollution arising from the units and effluent storage,
transportation and spreading;
• Be accompanied by traffic management plans for significant developments
following consultation with the Planning Authority; and
• Include a statement outlining why the proposed location on the landholding was
deemed more appropriate than alternative options. If the Planning Authority
considers a more appropriate location is available on the landholding, the
application may not receive favourable consideration.

The above list is not exhaustive, and the Council may require other information
including an Environmental Impact Assessment Report and/or Natura Impact
Statement as applicable.

15.10 Waste Disposal and Recovery

In assessing development proposals for, or including, waste recovery / disposal
facilities, the Planning Authority will have regard to the provisions of the Eastern-
Midlands Region Waste Management Plan 2015-2021 or any superseding document,
planning legislation, the County Development Plan policies as set out in Chapter 6 and

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other relevant planning documents.
The provision of waste recovery facilities, pre-treatment infrastructure and
development of indigenous secondary waste processing, including Material Recovery
Facilities (MRF) and Waste Transfer Stations will be facilitated at appropriate locations
within the County.
Larger scale proposals for waste recovery / disposal facilities are considered by An
Bord Pleanála through the Strategic Infrastructure Development (SID) process. The
Planning Authority will contribute to the SID process on relevant proposals.

15.10.1 Waste Recovery / Disposal Facilities

Planning applications for waste related facilities shall:
• Avoid siting waste facilities in sensitive areas such as Special Areas of
Conservation (SACs), Special Protection Areas (SPAs), Natural Heritage Areas
(NHAs), proposed NHAs, areas protected for landscape character, visual amenity,
geology, heritage or cultural value, or areas at risk of flooding. Development
proposals for such infrastructure in these areas, will not be permitted.
• Undertake Appropriate Assessment Screening. Development will not be permitted
in the absence of screening, or a Stage 2 Appropriate Assessment if required.
• Be screened for the requirements of mandatory and sub-threshold Environmental
Impact Assessment. An Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) shall be
submitted as required.
• Include details of the nature of the operation, the type, source, and volume of waste
material to be processed and its method of processing, including hours of operation
and duration of permission sought for the council’s consideration.
• Include a Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA) outlining details of road access,
sightlines / visibility, vehicle turning manoeuvres, parking areas, pull-in areas, the
number and types of vehicles which will frequent the site, the carrying loads of
vehicles, and haul routes.
• Ensure a Sustainable urban Drainage System (SuDS) is applied to any proposed
developments, and that site-specific solutions to surface water drainage systems
are developed, which meet the requirements of the EU Water Framework Directive
and associated River Basin Management Plans.
• Provide details of potential noise, fumes, odours, dust, grit, vibration, and lighting,
including control / mitigation measures proposed. Monitoring of same, is also
required.
• Have regard to the impact on residential and visual amenity of the area. The
Council will consider the proximity to residences and the impact on same (including
through the considerations of traffic, emissions etc. outlined above).
• Provide for adequate screening of the proposed development through the
submission of detailed landscaping plans and boundary treatment proposals.
• Submit sufficient detail in relation to restoration and remediation measures
following cessation of the proposed development, including a timeframe for
implementation, and anticipated finished landform. A bond will be required to
ensure the appropriate restoration works are undertaken.

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15.10.2 Construction and Demolition Waste
Construction & Demolition waste management is now a priority objective under the
new National Waste Management Plan for a Circular Economy. Detailed waste
management plans will be required to be produced and delivered on for all new
development regardless of their size in accordance with the latest EPA Guidelines,
where the emphasis will be on waste minimisation and reuse, followed by sustainable
and environmentally friendly disposal to suitably licensed facilities.

15.10.3 Bring Banks and Recycling Facilities

Provision of “Bring Bank” facilities shall be required in conjunction with significant new
commercial / retail developments (particularly convenience supermarkets) or
extensions to same, and in conjunction with large scale residential and mixed- use
developments. The Council shall move towards ensuring that bring bank facilities are
accessible to as many members of the public as possible.
Bring bank facilities shall include receptacles for glass, cans, and textiles and, where
practicable, receptacles for paper, cardboard, plastics, batteries, light bulbs, and
certain waste oils. In the case of large retail developments, space shall also be
provided for reverse vending machines to promote the circular economy. Each
application including bring bank and recycling facilities will be assessed on its own
merits having regard to the following:
• Proximity to residential areas.
• The provision of an area of at least 10m by 4m.
• Accessibility for public, truck access and clearance heights.
• A hard standing area and safe pedestrian walkway.
• A vehicle set down area only with no permanent parking provision.
• Suitable lighting and CCTV monitoring; and
• Noise mitigation, screening and/or landscaping as considered necessary by the
Council.

15.11 Energy and Communications

15.11.1 Wind Energy Proposals
When assessing planning applications for wind energy developments the Council will
have regard to the Kildare Wind Energy Strategy contained in Appendix 2 of the
Development Plan. The Strategy designates areas across the county where wind
energy developments are acceptable in principle, open for consideration and not
normally permissible. These designated areas indicate where wind energy is favoured
spatially by the council over this Development Plan period.
All wind energy developments require compliance with the provisions of the
Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government’s Draft Revised Wind
Energy Development Guidelines (2019). Applications shall be supported by both
technical and environmental reports which assess a wide variety of considerations
which are outlined in detail in Section 6 of the Wind Energy Strategy.

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The Council may also require an Environmental Impact Assessment Report to be
submitted as part of any planning application for large scale commercial wind turbine
schemes.
It is the preference of the Planning Authority that the spacing between turbines
should be kept to a minimum in order to reduce the visual impact and footprint of the
development on the landscape, and where possible the distance between turbines
should not be greater than the distance between a dwelling house and a turbine,
subject to technical considerations and site conditions.

15.11.2 Solar Energy Proposals

All applications for proposed solar farm developments shall have due regard to the
considerations listed in Section 7.6 ‘Solar Energy’ in Chapter 7.

15.11.3 Applications Proximate to Overhead Lines

In relation to development proposals proximate (within 23 metres) to overhead
electrical infrastructure, developers / applicants should contact ESB in advance of
completing or finalising designs etc. (i.e. prior to pre-planning stage), so as to ensure
that the relevant clearances are maintained from any overhead electricity
infrastructure. The Council will have regard to those clearances.

15.11.4 Telecommunications and Supporting Infrastructure

Proposals for telecommunications antennae and support structures will be assessed
in accordance with the Telecommunications Antennae and Support Structures –
Guidelines for Planning Authorities, DELG, (1996), as revised by Circular Letter PL 07
/ 12, and any other publications and material as may be relevant in the circumstances.
Planning applications for new facilities should include:
• Details of the significance of the proposed development to the telecommunications
network, including a map of the area and existing coverage in the area.
• A technical explanation of the reasons why coverage cannot be provided by
existing antennae.
• Site sharing and clustering of equipment will be encouraged.
• Written evidence of site-specific consultations with other operators with regard to
the sharing of sites and support structures. The applicants must satisfy the Council
that a reasonable effort has been made to share installations. In situations where
it is not possible to share a support structure, the applicants will be encouraged to
share a site or to locate adjacently so that masts and antennae may be clustered.
A map showing the location of all existing structures within a minimum 2km radius
of the proposed site shall be submitted.
• Evidence of consideration of alternative sites and explanation of their unsuitability.
• Visual impact assessment and mitigation measures (e.g., low and mid-level
landscape screening, use of tree-type masts, colour treatment of masts /
antennae).

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When evaluating planning applications for the provision of such infrastructural
installations, the Council will seek to ensure that:
• The preservation of residential and visual amenity is considered.
• The telecommunications infrastructure is sited so as not to cause a negative impact
on the special character and appearance of designated conservation areas,
protected structures and sites of archaeological importance.
• The location of commercial masts on State buildings will be discouraged. All masts
on State buildings shall have regard to national and Council policies regarding
schools and residential areas.
• Only as a last resort will masts be permitted within or in the immediate surrounds
of smaller towns or villages, in a residential area or near a school, hospital or
residential care home. If such a location should become necessary, sites already
developed for utilities should be considered and masts and antennae should be
designed and adapted for the specific locations. The support structure should be
kept to the minimum height consistent with effective operation. At such locations
the support structure should be monopole or poles rather than a latticed tripod or
square structure.
• In the vicinity of larger towns, to encourage operators to locate in industrial estates
or on industrially zoned land. The use of existing structures is always preferable to
the construction of an independent antennae support structure. The possibilities
offered by some commercial or retail areas should be explored in terms of potential
locations for “disguised” masts. Tall buildings and rooftops, where antennae can
be treated to blend in with surroundings, should be considered.
• In rural areas, the visual absorption opportunities provided by existing topography
and vegetation should be taken into account. The possibility of placing towers and
masts in forestry plantations should be considered, provided of course that the
antennae are clear of obstructions. Where masts are located outside of forested
areas, applicants will be required to indicate the technical reasons why forest areas
are unsuitable. The design and visual appearance of masts, antennae and satellite
dishes and their associated equipment, shall be as unobtrusive as possible.
Sensitive design, painting of masts and screening will be expected to minimise
visual impact. Green or black is a preferred colour at ground level.
• Within the life of a planning permission, opportunities to modify and improve
existing structures shall be taken into consideration. In the event of obsolescence,
the antennae and their support structure shall be demolished / removed, and the
site reinstated at the operator’s expense. This will be a condition of planning
permission.
• In accordance with the Habitats Directive, any project not directly connected with
or necessary to the management of a Natura 2000 site but likely to have a
significant effect thereon, either individually or in combination with other plans or
projects, shall be subject to appropriate assessment of its implications for the site
in view of the sites’ conservation objectives.

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15.12 Seveso Sites
Planning authorities are required to have regard to the potential effects of relevant
development in terms of the risks or consequences of a major accident for public
health and safety.
Planning applications pertaining to or in proximity to Seveso sites are referred to the
Health and Safety Authority (HSA) for their input.
In assessing proposals, the Planning Authority will have regard to the technical advice
of the HSA in relation to proposed development and proposed land use(s). The
Planning Authority will consider the need to maintain an appropriate safe distance of
such establishments from residential areas, areas of public use, and areas of particular
natural sensitivity, and will also consider the need to minimise risk to strategic
infrastructure. For some types of development, particularly those involving large
numbers of people and vulnerable occupants, the Planning Authority will consider the
societal risk, i.e. the risk of large numbers of people being affected in a single accident.
Developers of Seveso sites and any sites within the consultation distances of these
industries (See Section 4.14) are encouraged to consult with the HSA at the pre-
planning stage to assess the impacts of their proposals.

15.13 Retail Development

15.13.1 Criteria for Assessment
Applications for significant retail development as outlined in Chapter 8 will be assessed
in accordance with the following criteria:
(i) The need to support the long-term strategy for town and village centres in the
County Retail Hierarchy, as established in this Plan;
(ii) The potential of the development to increase employment opportunities and
promote sustainable economic regeneration in both urban and rural centres
across all levels of the County Settlement and Retail Hierarchies;
(iii) The potential of the development to increase the competition of the county
regionally, nationally and internationally, as appropriate, and thereby attract
further consumers/shoppers to the county and its towns and villages;
(iv) Whether the development would respond to consumer demand in its retail
offering and not diminish the range of activities that all centres across the
County Retail Hierarchy can support and sustain;
(v) Whether the development would cause an adverse impact on one or more
centres in the County Retail Hierarchy, (either singly or cumulatively with
recent developments or outstanding permissions which have a realistic
prospect of implementation) sufficient to undermine the quality of the centre(s)
or its wider function in the promotion and encouragement of the arts, culture,
leisure and public realm functions, all of which are critical to the economic and
social life of communities in the county;
(vi) Whether the development would cause an increase in the number of vacant
properties within the designated Core Retail Areas of towns at the higher levels
of the County Retail Hierarchy but also generally in respect of the smaller, more
rural centres in the county;

570
 (vii) Whether the development would ensure a high standard of access by public
transport, foot, and private car so that the proposal is easily accessible by all
sections of society. Specifically, details of proposed Mobility Management
Measures should be provided which outline how the proposed development
could improve the accessibility of retail areas while aiming to contribute to the
development of pedestrian and cyclist friendly centres and vibrant street and
village life. This criterion is, on the whole, directed at applications in the county’s
main retail centres in recognition of the fact that communities in centres and
areas in the more rural parts of the county are highly reliant on the private car,
given both the lack of public transport and the distances involved; and
(viii) Whether the development would link effectively with the town / village centre in
which the development is proposed so that there is likely to be commercial
synergy.

In addition, the Council will seek that applications for new retail developments address
and provide evidence in respect of the following:
• The relationship of the application to any Development / Local Area Plan
allocations;
• An assessment of the proposal against the tests of the Sequential Approach, with
specific information provided if a brownfield town or village centre site is not being
promoted in the application. It should be demonstrated that all town or village
centre options have been fully evaluated and that flexibility has been adopted in
respect of the retail format;
• Qualitative and quantitative need for the proposal must be demonstrated, and it
must be in accordance with the centre’s role and level in the County Retail
Hierarchy. In respect of quantitative need, this should be derived from the
expenditure capacity within the relevant catchment area, which should be
appropriate to the nature and quantum of the retail floorspace proposed. All
applications should provide details of the methodology applied and the source
inputs to the capacity assessment;
• The baseline information and capacity / impact assessment must be fit for purpose
and transparent. Guidance on what the Council seeks in respect of this in Retail
Impact Assessments / Retail Impact Statements (RIA / RIS) is provided in Annex
5 of the Retail Planning Guidelines for Planning Authorities, DECLG (2012) 4 and
applicants should give due consideration to this in the preparation of Retail Impact
Assessments / Retail Impact Statements;
• The public realm interventions proposed in respect of major applications must be
aimed at improving the retail experience through high quality civic design, cleaning
and, as appropriate, Business Improvement District (BID) type initiatives;
• The extent to which the public realm interventions associated with new retail
development in town and village centres contribute to and enhance the character
of the area. Landscape features should form an integral part of the design, with a
range of hard and soft landscaping features. The extent of exposed concrete
should be minimised; and

4 P66 of the Retail Planning Guidelines for Planning Authorities, DECLG (2012)

571
• The extent to which it is relevant to consider the imposition of restrictions on the
nature and range of goods permitted for sale.
The Planning Authority will consider hours of operation in assessing planning
applications for retail development and may attach conditions restricting same.

15.13.2 Local Centres

In local centres it is a requirement to maintain a balance of appropriate commercial,
service, and residential uses. In assessing proposals, the Planning Authority will have
regard to the need to maintain and enhance the vitality, viability, and the character of
the area.
The impact of proposed development on the primacy of town centres will also be an
important consideration in determining any proposal for development.

15.13.3 Shopping Centres

Shopping centres must conform to the highest urban design standards, as is required
in the Retail Planning Guidelines for Planning Authorities, DECLG (2012) and its
supporting Retail Design Manual. The design must ensure that the proposed centre
will be integrated with and complementary to the streetscape and area in which it is
located. Elements to be addressed include:
• The scale, design and enclosure of pedestrian space;
• Connectivity with surrounding routes and places. Where possible new connections
shall be provided between desirable locations within the surrounding area;
• The provision and design of street furniture including public art, telephones, seats,
litter bins etc;
• The provision, within the overall design of the centre, of public facilities, e.g. toilets,
separate childcare areas, (including baby changing / feeding facilities that are
designed and located away from toilet facilities), access and facilities for disabled
people including toilets and parking spaces. The centres, where appropriate, may
include offices and medical centres;
• Activities and uses that keep the centre alive both during the day and evening, e.g.
cafes, restaurants, public houses and theatres / cinemas (noting that these are
generally only sustainable in the higher levels of the county’s Settlement and Retail
Hierarchy);
• The centre should provide active frontages to surrounding streets and should not
be surrounded by car parking. Regard shall be had to the Design Manual for Roads
and Streets (2019) on these matters;
• Landscaping plans must accompany all applications. Shopping centres should
provide recycling facilities and secure bicycle parking, discreetly located to ensure
they do not detract from the ambience and environment of the centre and its
immediate surrounds; and
• Where car parking cannot be designed as part of the public domain, security
boundary treatments for afterhours may be considered in appropriate
circumstances.
• Proposals for shopping centres should include naming and advertising details.

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15.13.4 Large Convenience Stores
The Retail Planning Guidelines, DECLG, (2012) introduced revised guidance and
convenience retail floorspace caps with respect to large food stores.
The net convenience floorspace cap applicable to the county is 3,000m². In respect of
the comparison component of such stores, the Retail Planning Guidelines 2012 advise
that there is no longer a cap on the amount of non-grocery space delineated in
applications for new stores or their extension.
Given the potential impact of this on existing town centre comparison floorspace, and
the move by a number of major convenience companies to franchise space to
mainstream national and international High Street comparison operators, the Council
will require a Retail Impact Assessment / Retail Impact Statement to be submitted in
support of any application for large convenience stores. Comprehensive details of the
nature of goods to be sold shall be provided. Applications for large convenience stores
to be developed on suitable brownfield sites within town centres will be encouraged,
subject to proper planning and design considerations.

15.13.5 Retail Warehousing

Applications for retail warehousing shall be limited to bulky goods as described in the
Retail Planning Guidelines 2012. As set out in Chapter 8, there will be no exceptions
to this, founded on the key objective of sustaining and further enhancing the vitality
and viability of all centres in the County Retail hierarchy. The development of further
out-of-town retail parks shall also be discouraged to avoid retail parks emerging as out
of centre shopping centres. Similarly, the Council will only consider standalone retail
units in retail warehouse car parks where they do not detract from the vitality and
vibrancy of nearby town centres.

15.13.6 Motor Service Areas

(i) Motorway Service Areas
The Council supports the development of on-line motorway service facilities in
appropriate locations in accordance with the guidance set out in the Spatial Planning
and National Roads Guidelines for Planning Authorities, DECLG (2012). The Council
will consider proposals for off-line service facilities at appropriate locations where on-
line services are not planned and it is demonstrated that the proposal is:
• In accordance with national guidance on the provision of motorway service areas;
• Required to meet the needs of road users on the National Road Network;
• Would not unduly impact on the safety, capacity, or efficiency of the road network;
and
• Would not impact negatively on the vibrancy or vitality of nearby town or village
centres.
A proliferation of private off-line service area facilities at national road junctions will not
be permitted.

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(ii) Fuel Filling Stations
Fuel filling stations must be located on the outskirts of the town or village but inside
the 50km or 60km speed limits. The preferred location is on the near side of the
roadway on the way out of town.
The essential purpose of fuel filling stations is to provide facilities for the sale of fuels
for vehicles. The Council however recognises the more diverse role of fuel filling
stations in recent times, and the expansion from merely fuel depots to the provision of
a wide range of convenience and other goods and services, including functioning as
rest areas.
Applications for planning permission for such development should contain the
following elements:
• Detailed proposals with respect to, inter alia, the following; method of disposal of
wastewater from carwash areas, traffic management including details regarding
the queuing of vehicles to access EV-charging points, surface water outlet and oil
interceptors. The development shall be designed and operated to avoid adverse
effects on existing road drainage in the area.
• A high standard of overall design, architectural layout, and material content to
ensure an attractive development that integrates with and complements or
enhances its surroundings. Where proposals include a forecourt canopy, it should
be justified given the strategies to reducing carbon fuel sales and integrated into
the overall design and sited so that it does not dominate the surrounding
buildings.
• Air pump and ancillary services shall be provided as part of any proposal.
• Advertising material should be kept to a minimum and no lighting shall be installed
so as to cause glare or interference to any user of an adjacent public road.
• The modification of standard corporate designs may be required by the Council in
order to reduce the visual impact of the development in sensitive environments. In
such instances, standard fuel filling station canopies can be replaced with more
sympathetic canopies designed to the satisfaction of the Council, such as light steel
and glass or slated roofs with no attached advertising.
• Strident and multiple colouring should be avoided and will be discouraged. The
size and colour should be such as to take cognisance of its setting and location in
the landscape.
• The retail floor space of the shop shall not exceed 100 sq.m net; where
permission is sought for a floor space in excess of 100 sq.m net, the sequential
approach to retail development shall apply in accordance with the Retail Planning
Guidelines, DECLG (2012) i.e. the retail element of the proposal shall be
assessed by the planning authority in the same way as would an application for
retail development (without fuel filling facilities) in the same location.
• The layout of the station forecourt should be arranged to allow dedicated parking
for users of the shop. Where an associated shop is proposed, the application shall
be considered in accordance with the Retail Planning Guidelines 2012.
• The safe movement of walkers and cyclists shall be prioritised over vehicle
movements with a layout of segregated routes to protect vulnerable road users at
points of entry/egress and within the site with dishings as required.

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15.13.7 Fast Food Outlets, Takeaways, Bookmakers, Budget Shops, Vape
Shops, Charity Shops, Telephone / Mobile Shops and Amusement / Gaming
Arcades
In order to maintain the appropriate mix of uses and protect the amenities in a
particular area, it is the policy of the Council to prevent the excessive concentration of
Fast Food Outlets, Takeaways, Bookmakers, Budget Shops, Vape Shops, Charity
Shops, Telephone/ Mobile Shops and Amusement/Gaming Arcades. The provision of
any of the above will be assessed having regard to the following:
• The number and frequency of such facilities in an area and their cumulative impact
in association with the proposed development;
• The need to safeguard the vitality and viability of shopping areas in the town centre
and to maintain a suitable mix of retail uses;
• The proximity of such uses to other vulnerable uses, e.g. residences, schools, open
space;
• The likely impact on general and residential amenity in terms of noise / disturbance,
traffic, parking, litter and fumes;
• Proposed façade design, the type and degree of any advertising / signage and
lighting, and the visual appearance of vents / extractors;
• The design shall be required to respect the character of the street and the buildings,
particularly within Architectural Conservation Areas.
• The status of the existing unit i.e., is the building in a poor state of disrepair, has it
been vacant for a prolonged period and is vacancy a sustained prolific issue in the
surrounding area.
• Gaming arcades will not generally be considered other than where the proposal is
part of a large tourist attraction.
Noise insulation measures will be required at the time of the submission of the planning
application and ongoing noise monitoring may be required. Adequate provision for
refuse disposal, storage and collection must be indicated in both new and existing
buildings. Fast food / Takeaway facilities should include proposals for on-street bins
(with appropriate design for boxes / packaging) and a plan for their maintenance.
Proposed opening hours must be specified which will be controlled by the Planning
Authority.

15.13.8 Hours of Operation and Control of Sales Hatches

The hours of operation of shops and the use of wall / window / door hatches for shop
sales shall be controlled, having regard to the following:
• The effects of noise, general disturbance, hours of operation, litter and fumes on
the amenities of nearby residents;
• The need to safeguard the vitality and viability of shopping areas in town centres
and to maintain a suitable mix of retail uses;
• Traffic considerations and pedestrian and public safety; and
• The number and frequency of similar facilities in the area.
Sales hatches may be acceptable where shopfronts are removed from the public
footpath and a specific need is demonstrated (e.g., late opening fuel filling stations).

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 15.14 Shopfronts
15.14.1 Design
• Shopfronts are one of the most important elements in determining the character,
quality, and image of retail streets in County Kildare.
• The design of shopfronts should reflect the scale and proportions of the existing
streetscape.
• In order to increase the attractiveness of the streetscape, the Council promotes a
dual approach to shopfront design
o Protecting traditional and original shopfronts.
o Encouraging good contemporary shopfront design.
• The Council promotes and encourages the use of Irish Language signage in the
County, including on shop fronts.

15.14.2 Planning Permission

• Applications for new shopfronts or modifications to existing shopfronts will be
assessed having regard to this Plan, Kildare County Council’s Shopfront
Guidelines (2013) and any specific requirements contained in a Local Area Plan or
Architectural Conservation Area Statement.
• The following requirements will apply to all planning applications related to new
shopfronts or modifications to existing shopfronts:
o Detailed plans at a scale of 1:50. Such plans should include details
regarding the design, colour, and detailing with regards to signage (including
window adhesive signage), advertising and lighting.
o Colour schemes should co-ordinate with adjoining buildings and shopfronts
and should be chosen to enhance the proportions and detailing of the whole
building. The use of garish colour should be avoided. All signage must be
compatible with the existing streetscape. Timber, stone, glass, and steel are
preferred materials.
o Contemporary shopfronts will be encouraged provided they are designed to
traditional principles of scale, proportion, and detailing.
o The appearance and proportions of the original shopfront should be
retained.
o Changes in internal ceiling heights, where required, should not interfere with
the proportions and depths of fascias.
o The twin elements of a fascia board (to carry names and advertising) and
pilasters (to frame and delineate the shopfront boundary) shall be provided
in all cases.
o The design must be approached in an integrated way (relate to the whole
facade), including advertising, lighting, and other features.
o Vertical emphasis and proportions should be kept, and plot divisions should
be expressed externally (even if the shop crosses them internally).
o The removal of service wires associated with existing facades will be
actively promoted in County Kildare.
• The Council will discourage the following:
o The removal of features or alterations to existing shopfronts where they are
considered by the Council to be of historical or architectural interest, or of

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 townscape value;
o The enlargement or remodelling to a horizontal emphasis of existing
windows above ground floor level;
o The construction of fascias linking two or more buildings / plots which have
different architectural identities;
o The use of large areas of undivided glass or the provision of new display
windows with a horizontal emphasis;
o The permanent removal of the shopfront and the creation of an opening
through which direct trading onto the pavement is carried out;
o The use of standardised brand names, logos, corporate designs as part of
shopfront fascia advertising, where it conflicts with the existing streetscape;
and
o The use of external roller shutters and their boxes and projecting brand
signs on the exterior of shop-fronts.
• It is acknowledged that retail and other multiples, e.g., turf accountants, banks and
building societies tend to have their own corporate identity and standardised
signage. In sensitive locations, standard shopfronts can weaken the special local
identity of an area. This will not be permitted. Compromise proposals which
maintain corporate image without eroding local character will be considered.

15.14.3 Advertising on Shopfronts

• In respect of shops and other business premises, advertising should be designed
as an integral part of the shopfront and in most cases will be required to be located
within the fascia. Signs will not be allowed to dominate the facade or interfere with
windows or other features or detailing on the building.
• The Council will encourage the following types of advertising:
o The use of traditional painted sign-writing on fascia boards, using
appropriate colour schemes;
o The use of solid block individual lettering affixed directly to fascia boards or
facades;
o The use of spotlighting or floodlighting of fascia boards, shopfronts or entire
facades (provided that the light fixtures are of modest form and size and that
such lighting will not cause a traffic hazard);
o The painting of stall risers and other features to enhance the design of the
shopfront, using appropriate colour schemes; and
o The provision of traditional timber or wrought iron hanging signs, with
painted or enamelled finishes. Such signs shall be of a limited size and
projection and shall be limited to a maximum of one sign for each building
facade.
• Commercial interests will not necessarily be allowed to use standardised shopfront
design, ‘corporate colours’ or materials. Compatibility with individual buildings and
with the streetscape is considered by the Council to be more important than
uniformity between the branches of one company. While each case will be
considered on its merits, the following types of advertising will not be permitted by
the Council, and will be actively discouraged:

577
 o The use of plastic, PVC, Perspex, and neon signs or lettering or detailing on
any exterior.
o Internally illuminated box fascia signs.
o Internally illuminated projecting signs, whether fixed or hanging.
o Digital (including digital signage boards), flashing, reflectorised, neon or
glitter-type signs or detailing at any location on the exterior of the building,
or so located within the interior as to be intended to be viewed from the
exterior.
o The erection of any signs or other devices which project above the level of
the eaves or parapet, or obtrude on the skyline, or outside the general bulk
of the building.
o The provision of multiple signs, whether small or large, that would cause
visual clutter on buildings or within the streetscape of a village or settlement;
o The use of inappropriate brand or corporate advertising.
• Each case will be examined on its merits.

15.14.4 Canopies
• Planning permission will be required for the erection of canopies/awnings.
• The use of canopies will be considered where shading of a window display is
required and not for the primary purpose of increasing advertisement space.
• The erection of canopies in an Architectural Conservation Area (ACA) will be
discouraged.
• The erection of canopies should not disrupt views along the street or obscure the
shopfront detail or neighbouring shopfront detail and advertising.
• Canopies should always be retractable and should ideally be made of canvas or
similar materials. Plastic or fabric canopies and ‘Dutch’ type canopies will not be
permitted.
• Canopy colours should be subdued as bright colours could undermine the quality
of the street scene.

15.14.5 Roller Shutters

• It is the policy of the Council to discourage the use of roller shutters and to ensure
the removal of unauthorised ones. The erection of a roller shutter and its
associated housing requires planning permission.
• Where security shutters are considered to be essential, e.g. because of the type of
business transacted or goods stored, and where the location so indicates, the
Council may permit them provided that they meet the following criteria:
o They have regard to the ‘Key Design Recommendation’ in Section 3.4.5 of
the County Kildare Shopfront Guidelines, 2013.
o They must be of the open-grille type or timber panelled shutters painted to
match the shop-front colour scheme. This will be favourably considered in
place of roller shutters in order to enhance the streetscape.
o Internal roller shutters located behind display window.
o In exceptional circumstances painted steel security shutters may be
acceptable on certain business premises for security reasons.
• Each case will be examined on its merits.

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15.15 Advertising and Signage
• The siting of signage and advertising structures on, under, over or along a public
road is subject to a sign licence in accordance with Section 254 of the Planning
and Development Act 2000 (as amended).
• Proposals for signage on or at national roads will be assessed against Chapter 3
of the Spatial Planning and National Roads Guidelines for Planning Authorities
(DoECLG, 2012) and TII Policy on the Provision of Tourist & Leisure Signage on
National Roads (March 2011).
• Planning permission is required where the sign is on a private road/ structure/ land.
• The Kildare County Council’s Shopfront Guidelines (2013) sets out the Council’s
approach to effectively manage signage (refer to Section 15.14.3 also). All
applications for signage shall be considered having regard to this policy document
in terms of:
o Demonstrable need;
o Intended duration of signage;
o Scale of signage;
o Type of advertising, if applicable;
o Proximity to other signage in terms of proliferation and visual clutter;
o Pedestrian / cyclist movement;
o Impact on visual amenity;
o Impact on traffic safety;
o Impact on built heritage and streetscape

• The Council will carefully and sensitively manage the proliferation of advertising
structures, visual clutter and brand advertising in particular in historic town and
villages centres and approaches to all towns and villages in County Kildare in
order to ensure the public realm is enhanced and protected.
• Public Health Act curtailments regarding the advertisement of alcohol products in
respect of proximity to schools shall be strictly adhered to.

Type of Sign Restriction on use Design Criteria

Fingerpost Sign Not permitted along national routes
or interchanges.

Directional signs for major tourist

attractions and community
purposes will be considered but
product advertising will not be
permitted.

Generally, only one sign per

establishment will be permitted.

Only the primary route to the

facility shall be signed.

The sign should be located within

2km of the facility or at a relevant

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Type of Sign Restriction on use Design Criteria
junction.
Backlit Signs Generally appropriate. Lettering should generally
not exceed 400mm in
height.
Billboard May be permitted in limited
circumstances for a specified time
period, where it can be
demonstrated that the
development will enhance the area
e.g. by screening an unsightly site
or derelict structure.
Use of Not Permitted.
gable/side of
buildings for the
exhibition of
advertising
structures.
Digital Generally not appropriate. Not Applications should set out
Boards/Signs permitted in an ACA or on or close the details for the material,
to a Protected Structure. Not finishes and colours of the
permitted on major roads unless signage structure,
signage relates to the signage maximum luminance of the
strategy or traffic management and advertisement display
safety. between dusk and dawn.

Only static images without

movement shall be
permitted,

No more than one

advertisement shall be
displayed every ten
seconds and fade
transition shall be applied.
Bus Shelter Generally appropriate Purpose of illumination
should be to light the
shelter.
Fascias and Generally appropriate Should not be internally
Box Signs illuminated.

Lettering should not

exceed more than 400mm
in height.
Projecting Sign Generally not appropriate. Should not be internally
illuminated.
Public Generally appropriate. Should not obstruct
Information footpath/cycle paths.
Panels Advertising permitted on

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 Type of Sign Restriction on use Design Criteria
public information panels
will be restricted and
should constitute not more
than 50% of the total area.
Neon Signs Generally not appropriate. Should not be displayed in
village centres, in ACAs or
on or near a Protected
Structure.
Signs above Not Permitted.
Parapet
Moving Vane Not Permitted.
Signs
Free Standing Not permitted on or over footpaths.
Advertising
Displays
Totem Not generally permitted where Limit of 1 no. Totem
nameplate signage on a façade of Sign per specific site. Must
a building is sufficient in scale and be high quality
design and clearly visible from a material/finish.
public road.
Position of sign should not
In general, due to the size of this interfere with vehicular and
type of signage it is not acceptable pedestrian sightlines.
within an ACA or within the
curtilage of a Protected Structure.
Trailer / Mobile Not Permitted
Trailer Signs /
Parked Mobile
Advertising
Window Signs Generally appropriate Should not occupy more
than 25% of the window.

Signs in windows should

not be internally
illuminated.
Structures on Not Permitted
Public
Footpaths and
Public Areas
Sundry Not Permitted Includes pavement signs
Advertising or sandwich boards,
Devices spotlights, flags, bunting,
banners, neon moving
message signs, fly posting
and barrage/ balloons.
Table 15.10 - Advertising Signage

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15.16 Outdoor Dining
• The siting of outdoor dining and associated structures on a public footpath is
subject to a licence in accordance with Section 254 of the Planning and
Development Act 2000 (as amended). Planning permission is required where the
outdoor dining structures are located on private land.
• Kildare County Council’s Licensing of Outdoor Dining and Seating Guidelines and
Checklist Document (2021) set out the Council’s approach to effectively managing
outdoor dining. All applications shall be considered having regard to these
guidelines.

15.17 Built and Natural Heritage

15.17.1 Protected Structures
Bats will often roost in basements or attics of old buildings and could potentially be
disturbed during works to protected structures. Bats are protected under the Wildlife
Acts 1976 to 2012. It is an offence to intentionally disturb, injure or kill a bat or disturb
its resting place and any work on a roost must be carried out with the advice of the
National Parks and Wildlife Service. Bats are also protected under the EU Habitats
Directive (92/43/EEC), Annex IV. It is important that expert advice is sought in
determining the presence of bat species in older buildings to address the requirement
of derogation licence that will be required if bats are found to be present.

15.17.1.1 Works to a Protected Structure

• Works that would materially affect the character of a Protected Structure require
planning permission. Owners and occupiers proposing to carry out any works to a
Protected Structure can seek a Section 57 Declaration from the Planning
Authority under the provisions of Section 57 of the Planning and Development
Act, 2000 (as amended). A Section 57 declaration sets out the type of works
which would or would not materially affect the character of the structure or any
element of the structure which contributes to its special interest and that do not
require planning permission.
• All development proposals potentially impacting on Protected Structures shall have
regard to Section 11.15 of this Plan and the guidelines of the Department of Arts,
Heritage and the Gaeltacht (DAHG) Architectural Heritage Protection Guidelines
for Planning Authorities (2011).
• International guidance on the protection of places of cultural heritage significance
is provided by ICOMOS (International Council on Monuments and Sites). ICOMOS
Charters set a standard of practice for those who provide advice, make decisions
about, or undertake works to places of cultural significance, including owners,
managers, and custodians. The ICOMOS Burra Charter 2013, also provides
guidance on new works and changes to places of cultural significance, all guidance
herein has regard to this charter.
• An Architectural Heritage Impact Assessment Report, as described in Appendix B
of the Architectural Heritage Protection Guidelines for Planning Authorities (DAHG,
2011) and Section 11.15 of this Plan shall accompany planning applications for
works to protected structures. This report shall:

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 o Outline the significance of the building.
o Include a detailed survey of the building, identifying all surviving
original/early features including a photographic survey.
o Detail the proposed works it is intended to carry out, including the detail of
proposed works clearly identified on accompanying survey drawings by way
of colour coding and/or annotated notes to distinguish clearly between the
existing structure and the proposed work.
o Contain a full assessment on the materials and method proposed to carry
out these works, their impact on the character of the structure and the
reversibility of the proposed works.
o The details required to be submitted will be dependent on the significance
of the building and the nature of works proposed. All works to protected
structures shall be carried out in accordance with best conservation
practice.
• The AHIA report should be prepared by an accredited conservation architect or
equivalent (a list of suitably qualified professionals is available on the Irish
Georgian Society and RIAI websites).

15.17.1.2 Development Within the Curtilage, Attendant Grounds and Setting of

Protected Structures
• All planning applications for development in proximity to a Protected Structure must
be accompanied by a design statement, with supporting illustrative material,
demonstrating how it has been developed having regard to the built heritage,
topography, and landscape character of the site.
• An accredited conservation architect or equivalent should be engaged at the outset
of the design process to assist in determining the appropriate siting and design of
the development in order to minimise the impact on the Protected Structure. It may
be of benefit to discuss specific requirements, at pre-planning stage.
• In considering applications for development within the curtilage and/or attendant
grounds of a protected structure, the Council shall have regard to the following:
o The various elements of the structure which give the protected structure its
special character and how these would be impacted on by the proposed
development.
o The proximity of any new development to the main protected structure and
any other buildings of heritage value.
o The design of the new development that should relate to and complement
the special character of the protected structure.
• High quality design will be a foremost consideration, with particular emphasis on
siting, building lines, proportions, scale, massing, height, roof treatment and
materials. This does not preclude innovative contemporary buildings. High quality
contemporary interventions will be encouraged over historic pastiche.
• Development proposals should include appraisal of the wider context of the site
and structure including its demesne landscape, where applicable.

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15.17.2 Development in Architectural Conservation Areas
• Planning applications for developments in Architectural Conservation Areas
(ACAs) should have regard to the provisions of Section 11.18 of this Plan.
• The Council will require planning applications for developments in or immediately
contiguous to an ACA to be accompanied by an Architectural Heritage Impact
Assessment Report as described in Appendix B of the Architectural Heritage
Protection Guidelines for Planning Authorities (DAHG, 2011) in order to assess the
impact of the development on the ACA.
• The Council will normally only permit development proposals for new buildings,
alterations, extensions and changes of use where the proposal is sympathetic to
the special character of the ACA and where the design is appropriate in terms of
scale, height, density, layout, materials and finishes having regard to the advice
contained within each ACA document.
• In an ACA the Council will have regard to the following:
o The effect of the proposed development on buildings and the surrounding
environment, both natural and man-made.
o The impact of development on the immediate streetscape in terms of
design, scale, height, plot, width, roof treatment, materials, landscaping, mix
and intensity of use proposed.
o New alterations and extensions should complement existing buildings /
structures in terms of design, external finishes, colour, texture, windows /
doors / roof / chimney / design and other details.
o In dealing with advertisements in Architectural Conservation Areas, the
overriding consideration will be the enhancement and protection of the
essential visual qualities of the area.

15.17.3 Development in Zones of Archaeological Potential

• Developments within zones of archaeological potential should have regard to the
provisions as set out in Chapter 11 of this Plan and the requirements of the
Framework and Principles for the Protection of Archaeological Heritage, DAHG
(1999).
• All development proposals that may (due to their location, size, or nature) have
implications for archaeological heritage should be accompanied by an
Archaeological Impact Assessment and Method Statement prepared by a suitably
qualified archaeologist.
• All development proposals for industrial buildings and sites of industrial
archaeological importance should be accompanied by an Industrial Archaeology
Assessment of the surrounding environment.
• A Conservation Plan may be required for development in the vicinity of a site or
monument, to ensure the ongoing protection of the monument and its setting.
• A Visual Impact Assessment may be required for development proposals in the
vicinity of upstanding remains.
• When considering development proposals within Zones of Archaeological Potential
and on, or in close proximity to, sites of known archaeological significance, the
Council will have regard to the provisions of Section 12 of the National Monuments
(Amendment) Act, 1994 (as amended).

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• The Council will also have regard to the observations and recommendations of the
National Monuments Service, Department of Housing, Local Government and
Heritage and other interested bodies.

15.17.4 Natural Heritage, Green Infrastructure and Biodiversity

• The overall policies and objectives relating to natural heritage are set out in
Chapter 12 of this Plan and all planning applications will be assessed having regard
to same.
• Any proposals impacting on a known site, or likely, to be a breeding or resting site
of species listed in Habitats Regulations will require a derogation license, as per
Article 16 of the Habitats Directive issued by the National Parks and Wildlife
Service (NPWS), which is part of the Heritage Division of the Department of Arts,
Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs.
• Developers/Applicants should be advised of this possibility at pre-planning stage
and are advised to consult with the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS),
Licensing and Development Applications Unit, prior to making a planning
application. It is preferable for a derogation license to have been applied for and/or
obtained prior to submission of any planning application.
• In order to comply with European and National legislation on nature conservation,
and to ensure that areas of biodiversity value are adequately protected, an
Ecological Impact Assessment will be required, as well as the provision of
mitigation measures to address the proposals that have the potential to impact on
environmentally sensitive sites.
• An Appropriate Assessment should accompany development proposals relating to
any plan or project not directly connected with or necessary to the management of
a Natura 2000 site to determine the likelihood of the plan or project having a
significant effect on a Natura 2000 site, either individually or in combination with
other plans or projects and to ensure that projects which may give rise to
significant cumulative, direct, indirect or secondary impacts on Natura 2000 sites
will not be permitted (either individually or in combination with other plans or
projects) unless for reasons of overriding public interest.
• Such an Appropriate Assessment should be carried out by a person with ecological
expertise and should be in accordance with Article 6(3) and Article 6(4) of the
Habitats Directive and the ‘Guidance for Local Authorities Appropriate Assessment
of Plans and Projects in Ireland’ (DEHLG) (2009).
• All development proposals will be required to address the presence or absence of
invasive alien species and where such species exist to submit an Invasive Species
Management Plan, in order to comply with the provisions of the European
Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011-2015.

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15.17.4.1 Riparian Corridors
• The riparian corridors of the county include rivers, streams and other watercourses
and are important green infrastructure and biodiversity links.
• Development within or affecting riparian corridors will have regard to the provisions
of Section 12.10.1 of this Plan, the ‘Requirements for the Protection of Fisheries
Habitat during Construction and Development Works at River Sites’ (IFI, 2004) and
the ‘Planning for Watercourses in the Urban Environment’ (IFI, 2020).
• All development proposals that are within or may affect riparian corridors should
be accompanied by an Ecological Impact Assessment, including bat and otter
surveys.
• Expert advice should be sought from a suitably qualified bat expert, in developing
lighting proposals along river and stream corridors.
• The Council will also have regard to the observations and recommendations of
Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) in relation to any development (greenfield
development or redevelopment of brownfield sites) that could potentially impact on
the aquatic ecosystems and associated riparian habitats.
• A multi-disciplinary team including an ecologist and flood risk expert shall review
all riverine sites to determine the appropriate zonation and permissible uses.

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