Planning and Development

Planning and Development 2010

The role and function of Kilkenny County Council's Planning Department is:

  • to determine the physical planning policy of the county.

  • control of new development and building.

  • promotion of industrial, commercial and other appropriate development.

 

Forward Planning - County Development Plan/Local Area Plans:

Highlights:

  • The Local Area Plan for Gowran was completed and adopted in 2010. The Local Area Plans for Fiddown and Piltown will be completed for adoption in 2011.

  • Strategic Environmental Assessments & Appropriate Assessments were completed as necessary in parallel for these plans.

  • A total of 9 Habitat Assessments were carried out in conjunction with the Heritage Officer for Ballyhale, Ballyragget, Fiddown, Gowran, Johnstown, Knocktopher, Mooncoin, Piltown and Urlingford.

  • Participated in the preparation of the South East Regional Planning Guidelines which were adopted in July 2010.

  • The preparation of a Core Strategy as required by the Planning and Development (Amendment) Act 2010 commenced.

  • The quantitative assessments (including floorspace assessment, household and shopper surveys) were completed as part of the ongoing review of the 2007 Retail Strategy.

  • The Loughmacask Local Area Plan 2008-2014 received a Commendation at the Irish Planning Institute National Planning Awards 2010.

 

Consultative website

In conjunction with the IS Department a second generation planning consultation site was launched which offers a totally new collaborative interface to citizens:
http://lap.kilkennycoco.ie/
The site presented a series of questions at the bottom of every chapter and a very user friendly comment form was also available on every page. This page was a featured link from the County Council website banner since the new county council website went live and was used as part of the public participation process for the local area plans for Fiddown, Gowran and Piltown.

 

Conservation:

  • The sum of €107,002 was paid under the National Conservation grants Scheme for conservation works to protected structures in 2010.

  • 22 additions were made to the Record of Protected Structures in 2010 representing Kilkenny County Council's ongoing commitment to responding to the Ministerial Recommendation to add to the RPS all buildings rated Regional or above in the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage survey for Co. Kilkenny, published in 2006.

  • Kilkenny County Council provides a planning consultancy/advisory system for any persons wishing to carry out works to buildings of architectural heritage significance and protected structures within County Kilkenny.

 

Derelict Sites:

Highlights:

  • The Council's five Area Offices are responsible for derelict sites with the support of the Director of Service for Planning.

  • Notices under the Derelict Sites Act 1990 are issued where appropriate and Derelict sites will continue to be investigated.

  • The County Council continues to identify sites that are suitable for infill housing in order to generate and revive some of the more dilapidated black spots in villages and towns around the County. The acquisition of suitable derelict properties is pursued under the Compulsory Purchase Proceedings of the Derelict Sites 1990.

 

Development Contributions:

Highlights:

  • The new Development Contribution Scheme was applied to all permissions granted from 1st January, 2004.

  • Sum of €2.3m was collected in 2010.

 

Development Control:

Highlights:

  • 729 planning applications were received in 2010, and the sum of €339,293 was received in planning fees.

  • 306 Commencement Notices under the Building Regulations were received.

  • The Planning Clinic system continues to operate successfully in each of the Area Offices.

  • A panel for approved Site Suitability Assessors was set up in 2008 and there are a total of 65 on this panel. This has improved the quality and reliability of the information submitted with a planning application, and has resulted in the reduction of referral of planning applications to the Environment Section for verification of the data.

 

Enforcement:

  • A total of 156 new complaints were received during 2010.

  • Enforcement Proceedings are ongoing with approximately 15 cases forwarded for legal action.

  • The Council successfully prosecuted 9 cases during 2010.

  • A total of 103 cases were brought to conclusion during 2010.

  • Fines and costs in the sum of €26,992.78 were imposed by the Courts following legal action taken by the Council.

  • There is a growing number of unfinished housing estates throughout the county and priority must now focus on their completion in conjunction with derelict sites.

 

IT Developments:

Highlights:

  • ePlan, Kilkenny County Council's internet based Planning and GIS system (which was made available online in 2004), offers a link to a GIS system which allows users to view the location of a planning application on a map register. This has continued to be successful throughout 2010 and has proved very popular with members of the public.

  • Throughout the year the Planning Webpage is updated with current events and legislation. 'A Frequently Asked Questions' section was added to assist members of the public with current information and is updated on a regular basis.

  • Kilkenny County Council is in the process of scanning planning files with a view to making the files available online. To the end of 2010 there are approx 18,500 files scanned in respect of applications received between 2000 and 2010. This will allow members of the public to access any planning file online without having to call to the planning office, (which is the current situation), and to download drawings and plans and any other information as may be required.

 

 

 

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Planning and Development 2009

The role and function of Kilkenny County Council's Planning Department is:

  • to determine the physical planning policy of the county.

  • control of new development and building.

  • promotion of industrial, commercial and other appropriate development.

 

 

Forward Planning - County Development Plan/Local Area Plans:

Highlights:

  • Local Area Plans were completed and adopted for Callan, Castlecomer, Thomastown, Graiguenamanagh, Ferrybank/Belview, Bennettsbridge and Kilmacow.

  • Strategic Environmental Assessments & Appropriate Assessments were completed as necessary in parallel for these plans

  • Commenced review of the local area plans for Gowran, Fiddown, Piltown and Mooncoin and began the public consultation process.

  • Variations to the County   Development Plan were completed to update the list of Architectural Conservation Areas that were adopted under the local area plans for Thomastown, Graiguenamanagh, Castlecomer and Callan and also to vary the policy in relation to individual wind turbines in order to allow for greater flexibility of turbine heights and to avoid contradictions between the County Development Plan and the exempted development provisions of the Planning and Development Regulations 2008.

  • The Thomastown Local Area Plan 2009 was amended to allow for greater flexibility in the use of two sites.

  • Tenders were sought from ecological consultants for Habitat Assessments to be carried out for settlements where the local area plans are due to be reviewed or prepared.

 

Conservation:

  • The sum of 148,000 Euros was paid under the National Conservation grants Scheme for conservation works to protected structures in 2009.

  • 210 additions were made to the Record of Protected Structures representing Kilkenny County Council's ongoing commitment to responding to the Ministerial Recommendation to add to the RPS all buildings rated Regional or above in the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage survey for Co. Kilkenny, published in 2006.

  • The Record of Protected Structures was reviewed and updated for the Local Area Plans of Thomastown, Graiguenamanagh, Callan and Castlecomer and Architectural Conservation Areas were designated for these towns. The Record of Protected Structures for the Ferrybank/Belview Local Area Plan was reviewed and updated.

  • Kilkenny County Council provides a planning consultancy/advisory system for any persons wishing to carry out works to buildings of architectural heritage significance and protected structures within County Kilkenny.

  • Kilkenny County Council collaborated with Waterford County Council to hold a lime workshop "Working with Lime" which was held at the Coastguard Station, Tramore on the 4th of September 2009. The event was held over one day and included lectures and demonstrations.

  • Kilkenny County Council supported the publication by the Building Limes Forum of Ireland of their new book on the use of lime in traditional structures and new build entitled "Lime Works" by Patrick McAfee.

  • Kilkenny County Council collaborated with the Irish Georgian Society to hold a seminar entitled Energy Efficiency in Historic Buildings in the Parade Tower, Kilkenny Castle on the 20th October 2009.

 

Derelict Sites:

Highlights:

  • The Council's five Area Offices are responsible for derelict sites with the support of the Director of Service for Planning.

  • Notices under the Derelict Sites Act 1990 are issued where appropriate and Derelict sites will continue to be investigated.

  • The County Council continues to identify sites that are suitable for infill housing in order to generate and revive some of the more dilapidated black spots in villages and towns around the County. The acquisition of suitable derelict properties are pursued under the Compulsory Purchase Proceedings of the Derelict Sites 1990.

 

Development Contributions:

Highlights:

  • The new Development Contribution Scheme was applied to all permissions granted from 1st January, 2004.

  • Sum of €2.2m was collected in 2009.

 

Development Control:

Highlights:

  • 843 planning applications were received in 2009, and the sum of €551,408 was received in planning fees.

  • 382 Commencement Notices under the Building Regulations were received.

  • The Planning Clinic system continues to operate successfully in each of the Area Offices.

  • A panel for approved Site Suitability Assessors was set up in 2008 and there are a total of 57 on this panel. This has improved the quality and reliability of the information submitted with a planning application, and has resulted in the reduction of referral of planning applications to the Environment Section for verification of the data.

 

Enforcement:

  • A total of 190 new complaints were received during 2009.

  • Enforcement Proceedings are ongoing with approximately 25 cases forwarded for legal action.

  • The Council successfully prosecuted 6 cases during 2009.

  • A total of 182 cases were brought to conclusion during 2009.

  • Fines and costs in the sum of €13,378.63 were imposed by the Courts following legal action taken by the Council.

  • There is a growing number of unfinished housing estates throughout the county and priority must now focus on their completion in conjunction with derelict sites.

 

IT Developments:

Highlights:

  • ePlan, Kilkenny County Council's internet based Planning and GIS system (which was made available online in 2004), offers a link to a GIS system which allows users to view the location of a planning application on a map register. This has continued to be successful throughout 2009 and has proved very popular with members of the public.

  • Throughout the year the Planning Webpage is updated with current events and legislation. "A Frequently Asked Questions" section was added to assist members of the public with current information and is updated on a regular basis.

  • Kilkenny County Council is in the process of scanning planning files with a view to making the files available online. This will allow members of the public to access any planning file online without having to call to the planning office, (which is the current situation), and to download drawings and plans and any other information as may be required.

 

Wiki:

Kilkenny County Councils Planning and IS Departments Planning wiki website: http://wiki.kilkennycoco.ie. was used as part of the public participation process for the local area plans for Callan, Castlecomer and Bennettsbridge.  The aim of this wiki is to enable interested and engaged members of the public to participate online in a collaborative discussion around the development of future Local Area Plans (LAPs), thereby enhancing public participation in the process. Any interested parties can register themselves on the wiki and can then make changes or additions to articles within the LAP's. Comments can also be made on any of the content of the wiki.

 

 

 

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Planning and Development 2006

Forward Planning - County Development Plan/Local Area Plans

Highlights:

  • Area Plans adopted for Slieverue, Mullinavat, and Stoneyford in 2006.

  • Public consultations held for Paulstown, and Woodstock.

  • An ammendment to the Mooncoin Local Area Plan was adopted in 2006.

  • Extensive Consultations are carried out in the preparation of the Local Area Plans. All sectors of the Community are encouraged to participate in the formal consultation process.

  • County Strategy Actions and Community Actions are now being incorporated into Local Area Plans.

  • Variation No 7 of the Kilkenny City & Environs Development Plan and the County Development Plan was adopted in 2006.

  • The Rural Housing Policy relating to Variation No 8 of the County Development Plan was adopted in 2006, taking into account the Sustainable Rural Housing Guidelines.

  • The Rural Housing Design Guidelines commenced in 2006, and Consultants were appointed.

  • The Review of the County and City Development Plan commenced in 2006. Public consultation was held and the County Managers Report has been prepared.

  • The review of the County Development Plan is ongoing.

 

Conservation:

Highlights:

  • The sum of €159,000 was paid under the Conservation Grant Scheme for protected structures.

  • One addition was made to the Record of Protected Structures.

  • Architectural Inventories have been carried out for four villages and Urban Design Studies carried out for a further four villages.

  • N.I.A.H. survey for County Kilkenny commenced in 2005 and continued in 2006.

  • Kilkenny County Council offer a planning consultancy/advisory system for sensitive buildings and protected structures.

 

Derelict Sites

Highlights:

  • The Council's five Area Offices are responsible for derelict sites with the support of a Senior Executive Engineer.

  • 74 Notices under the Derelict Sites Act 1990 were issued in 2006.

  • Derelict sites will continue to be investigated and notices served as appropriate.

  • The County Council continues to identify sites that are suitable for infill housing in order to generate and revive some of the more dilapidated black spots in villages and towns around the County.

  • The acquisition of suitable derelict properties will commence under the Compulsory Purchase Proceedings of the Derelict Sites Act 1990.

 

Development Contributions

Highlights:

  • The new Development Contribution Scheme was applied to all permissions granted from 1st January, 2004.

  • The sum of €13.2m was collected in 2006 - an increase of €2.7.m.

 

Development Control

Highlights:

  • 2346 applications were received in 2006 (2046 in 2005).

  • The sum of €1,154,509.00 was received in planning fees.

  • 526 Commencement Notices under the Building Regulations were received.

  • The Planning Clinic system continues to operate successfully in each of the Area Offices.

  • Kilkenny County Council was nominated by the Kilkenny Chamber of Commerce for its Planning Service under the National Chambers Ireland Awards and was successful in being shortlisted to the final three Planning Authorities. This award serves to recognise the continuous work being done to improve the customer service in the Planning Department e.g. extended opening hours, over the counter validations service dedicated customer service desk, Frequently Asked Questions's etc.

 

Billy Ireland, Michael Malone, Michael Lanigan and Planning Staff at Chambers Ireland Awards Night

Cathaoirleach Cllr. Billy Ireland, County Manager Michael Malone and Chair of Planning SPC Michael Lanigan with Planning Staff at Chambers Ireland Awards Night

 

A new Protocol to deal with the Taking in Charge of housing estates by the Council was developed and commenced in 2005 and will continue to be developed and utilised for future requests under the Taking in Charge process. All relevant planning applications are now subject to the new protocol and it is a standard condition of planning permission. The Taking in Charge process commenced in respect of 11 housing estates in 2006.

 

Enforcement

Highlights:

  • A total of 211 new complaints were received during 2006.

  • Enforcement Proceedings were progressed in respect of 231 complaints and approximately 30 cases were forwarded for legal action.

  • A total of 80 cases were brought to conclusion during 2006.

  • The Council successfully prosecuted 11 cases during 2006.

  • Fines and costs in the sum of €8,500.00 were imposed by the Court.

  • Development contributions would also be due on foot of a number of applications which were received as a direct result of enforcement action.

  • A number of cases investigated by the Office of the Ombudsman were closed, their office being satisfied with our handling of these particular complaints.

 

Town Renewal

  • Urlingford - shrub planting/provision of amenity area.

  • Kells - provision of paved footpaths in village centre and entrance to Kells Priory.

  • Piltown - provision of paved area in village entrance/replastering of walls at County Council depot/tree planting.

  • Ballyhale - provision of seating areas/undergrounding of overhead cables.

  • 37 projects have been approved to date under the Town Renewal Scheme.The closing date for applications for the scheme was 31st December, 2004 and the qualifying dates for tax relief have been extended to 31st July, 2008 where additional conditions are met.

 

Urban & Village Renewal

Highlights:

  • In 2001 a Strategic Plan for the Implementation of the Urban & Village Renewal Scheme was prepared by Kilkenny County Council. This set out the Council's plans for the years 2001 - 2006 in allocating the Urban and Village renewal funding throughout the County.

  • The Urban and Village Renewal Scheme is funded by the EU and Exchequer through the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government.

  • The grant allocation for the year 2006 was €387,692.00.

  • Phase 6 of the six year programme was undertaken in 2006 and the following projects were carried out:-

Castlecomer Amenity Area Church Avenue
Kilkenny River Nore Linear Park Phase 1B & 1C under construction
Knocktopher provision of paved footpaths and village entrance signs
Paulstown Tree planting
Rosbercon Tree planting

 

IT Developments

Highlights:

  • EPlan, Kilkenny County Council's new internet based Planning and GIS system which was made available online in 2004 was updated and made more user friendly throughout 2006.

  • A new mapping register of Enforcement files was implemented at the end of 2004 which will greatly assist Planning Staff and members of the Public in identifying Enforcement cases which are current and have relevance to any proposed planning applications on a particular site.

 

 

 

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Planning and Development 2005

Forward Planning - County Development Plan/Local Area Plans

Highlights:

  • Area Plans adopted for New Ross, Kells, Goresbridge, Freshford in 2005.

  • Public consultations held for Slieverue, Mullinavat, Stoneyford and Paulstown.

  • Local Area Plan for Kilkenny City Centre adopted in 2005.

  • Extensive Consultations are carried out in the preparation of the Local Area Plans. All sectors of the Community are encouraged to participate in the formal consultation.process.

  • County Strategy Actions and Community Actions now being incorporated in Local Area Plans.

  • Variation No's. 4 & 5 & 6 of the Kilkenny City & Environs Development Plan were adopted in 2005.

  • Consultation for Variation No's 7 & 8 of the Kilkenny City & Environs Development Plan and the County Development Plan commenced in 2005.

  • The review of the Retail Strategy was adopted in 2005.

  • A review of the parameters of the Housing Strategy was completed in 2005.

  • A review of the Rural Housing Policy was commenced in 2005 and the draft completed, taking into account the Sustainable Rural Housing Guidelines.

  • A proposed ammendment to the Mooncoin Local Area Plan commenced and the draft was on public display in 2005.

 

Conservation:

Highlights:

  • The sum of €190,000 was paid under the Conservation Grant Scheme for protected structures.

  • Ten additions were made to the Record of Protected Structures.

  • Architectural Inventories have been carried out for four villages and Urban Design Studies carried out for four villages.

  • N.I.A.H. survey for County Kilkenny commenced in 2005.

  • Kilkenny County Council offer a planning consultancy/advisory system for sensitive buildings and protected structures.

 

Derelict Sites

Highlights:

  • The Council's five area offices are responsible for derelict sites with the support of a Senior Executive Engineer.

  • 52 Notices under the Derelict Sites Act 1990 were issued in 2005.

  • Derelict sites will continue to be investigated and notices served as appropriate.

  • The County Council continues to identify sites that are suitable for infill housing in order to generate and revive some of the more dilapidated black spots in villages and towns around the County.

  • The acquisition of suitable derelict properties will commence under the Compulsory Purchase Proceedings of the Derelict Sites Act 1990.

 

Development Charges

Highlights:

  • The new Development Contribution Scheme was applied to all permissions granted from 1st January, 2004 .

  • The sum of €10.9m was collected in 2005 - an increase of €3.6m.

  • Kilkenny City Western Environs Development Contribution Scheme was adopted in 2005.

 

Development Control

Highlights:

  • 2046 applications received in 2005 (2087 in 2004).

  • The sum of €1,112,956 was received in planning fees.

  • 831 Commencement Notices under the Building Regulations were received.

  • The Planning Clinic system continues to operate successfully in each of the area offices.

  • Extended opening hours at the planning public counter were introduced in 2004, and the Planning Office is open to the public from 9.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. daily.

 

Enforcement

Highlights:

  • A total of 180 new complaints were received during 2005.

  • Enforcement Proceedings were progressed in respect of 250 complaints and approximately 70 cases have been forwarded for legal action.

  • A total of 195 cases were brought to conclusion during 2005.

  • The Council successfully prosecuted 4 cases during 2005.

  • Fines and costs, a total of €9,200.00 was imposed by the Court.

  • Over €200,000.00 was received in planning retention fees alone as a direct result of Enforcement action taken. Development contributions would also be due on foot of most of these applications.

  • A number of cases investigated by the Office of the Ombudsman were closed, it being satisfied with our complaints handling procedures.

 

Taking In Charge

A new Protocol to deal with the Taking in Charge of housing estates by the Council was developed and commenced in 2005 and will continue to be developed and utilised for future requests under the Taking in Charge process.

The Taking in Charge process commenced in respect of 11 housing estates in 2005.

 

Town Renewal

  • 29 projects have been approved to date under the Town Renewal Scheme.

  • The final date for qualifying for the scheme was 31 st December, 2004 with 31 st July, 2006 being the date for completion of works.

 

Urban & Village Renewal

Highlights:

  • In 2001 a Strategic Plan for the Implementation of the Urban & Village Renewal Scheme was prepared by Kilkenny County Council. This set out the Council's plans for the years 2001 - 2006 in allocating the Urban and Village renewal fund throughout the County.

  • The Urban and Village Renewal Scheme is funded by the EU and Exchequer through the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.

  • The grant allocation for the year 2005 was € €525,821.00.

  • Phase 5 of the six year programme was undertaken in 2005 and the following projects were carried out :-

Kilkenny - Bishop Birch Place New entrance area, upgrading of pitch
Kilkenny - Johns Quay paving, lighting and planting
Kilkenny - River Nore Linear Park purchase of materials
Clogh footpaths and signage
Cuffesgrange paving and tree planting
Johnswell amenity area and public lighting
Kilmaganny footpaths
Mullinavat footpaths, amenity area with play facilities, planting on approach roads

New footpath and public lighting Kilkenny Road Callan

New footpath and public lighting Kilkenny Road Callan

 

IT Developments

Highlights:

  • EPlan, Kilkenny County Council's new internet based Planning and GIS system was made available online in 2004.

  • New mapping register of Enforcement files was implemented at the end of 2004 which will greatly assist Planning Staff in identifying Enforcement cases which are current and have relevance to any proposed planning applications on a particular site

 

 

 

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Planning and Development 2004

Forward Planning - County Development Plan/Local Area Plans

Highlights:

  • Area Plans adopted for Ballyhale, Knocktopher, Ballyragget, Inistioge and Urlingford.

  • Public consultations held for Slieverue, New Ross, Kells, Goresbridge, Freshford, Mullinavat, Stoneyford and Paulstown.

  • Local Area Plan for Western Environs of Kilkenny City adopted.

  • Industrial/commercial agencies are being requested to increase their own involvement in the preparation of Local Area Plans.

  • County Strategy Actions and community actions now being incorporated in Local Area Plans.

  • Variation No. 2 Kilkenny Inner Relief Road of the Kilkenny City and Environs Development Plan was adopted in 2004.

  • A review of the Retail Strategy commenced in 2004.

  • A review of the parameters of the Housing Strategy commenced in 2004.

 

Conservation:

Highlights:

  • The sum of € 103,070 was allocated by the Council under the Conservation Grant Scheme for protected structures.

  • Forty six additions were made to the Record of Protected Structures.

  • Architectural Inventories have been carried out for four villages and Urban Design Studies carried out for eight villages.

  • Kilkenny County Council offers a planning consultancy/advisory system for sensitive buildings and protected structures.

 

Derelict Sites

Highlights:

  • The Council's five area offices are responsible for derelict sites with the support of a Senior Executive Engineer.

  • 103 notices under the Derelict Sites Act were issued in 2004.

  • Derelict sites will continue to be investigated and notices served as appropriate.

 

Development Charges

Highlights:

  • The new Development Contribution Scheme was applied to all permissions granted in 2004.

  • €6.7 m was levied and owing in respect of charges under the new scheme.

  • Draft Kilkenny City Western Environs Development Contribution Scheme was published in 2004.

 

Development Control

Highlights:

  • 2,087 applications received in 2004 (2,071 in 2003).

  • The sum of € 956,738 received in planning fees.

  • The Planning Clinic system continues to operate successfully in each of the area offices.

  • Extended opening hours at the planning public counter introduced in 2004.

 

Enforcement

Highlights:

  • A total of 238 new complaints were received during 2004.

  • A total of 213 cases were brought to conclusion during 2004.

  • The Council successfully prosecuted 11 cases during 2004 with many more awaiting court hearings. Including fines and costs, a total of almost €14,500.00 was imposed by the Court.

  • Over €122,500.00 was received in planning retention fees alone as a direct result of Enforcement action taken. Development contributions would also be due on foot of most of these applications.

  • A number of cases investigated by the Office of the Ombudsman were closed, it being satisfied with the Council's handling procedures.

 

Town Renewal

  • 25 projects have been approved to date under the Town Renewal Scheme.

  • The final date for qualifying for the scheme was 31st December, 2004 with 31st July, 2006 being the date for completion of works.

 

Urban & Village Renewal

Highlights:

  • Phase 4 of the six year programme was undertaken. Projects were completed at Graiguenamanagh, Tullaroan, Cuffesgrange, Ballyragget, Goresbridge, Glenmore and Dunamaggin.

 

IT Developments

Highlights:

  • EPlan, Kilkenny County Council's new internet based Planning and GIS system was made available online in 2004.

  • A new mapping register of Enforcement files was implemented at the end of 2004 which will greatly assist Planning Staff in identifying Enforcement cases that are current and have relevance to any proposed planning applications on a particular site.

 

 

 

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Planning and Development 2003

Forward Planning - County Development Plan/Local Area Plans

Highlights:

  • Area Plans adopted for Piltown, Fiddown. Mooncoin & Gowran.

  • Proposed LAP published for Western Environs of Kilkenny City.

  • Public Consultations held for Ballyhale, Knocktopher,Ballyragget, Urlingford and Inistioge.

  • Industrisal/Commercial agencies are being requested to increase their own involvement in the preparation of Local Area Plans.

  • Co Strategy Actions and community actions now being incorporated in Local Area Plans.

  • Kilkenny Recreational Needs Report prepared and adopted by both Councils and the Development Plans were varied as necessary.

  • The creation of dedicated staff/area of responsibility commenced and Estimate provision was made in 2004 for a Parks Department.

  • Programme of Works on local roads,water and sewage schemes and five new playgrounds was approved by Members.

 

Conservation:

Highlights:

  • The sum of €79,500 was paid under the Conservation Grant Scheme for protected structures.

  • Four additions were made to the Record of Protected Structures.

  • Architectural Inventories have been carried for nine villages and Urban design Studies carried out for four villages.

  • A planning consultations/advisory system for sensitive buildings and protected structures was put in place.

 

County Strategy

Highlights:

  • The deficiency in information on the  Planning system and its processes for small business was identified as an issue and solutions were identified and agreed. It is intended to prepare information packs on planning for the small business sector in 2004.

  • A merging of Co Strategy actions with Dev Plan Actions is taking place at Area Plan level.

  • Participated in a subgroup dealing with co-ordination of service at local level-arranged a co-ordinated input to the Urlingford Local Area Plan.

 

Derelict Sites

Highlights:

Priority was given to this area in 2003.

  • The Councils five area offices were assigned responsibility for derelict sites.

  • Staff were appointed including a Senior Executive Engineer to compile the Derelict Sites Register, serve Notices and apply derelict site levies on those who allow their properties to remain derelict.

  • Substantial work was undertaken to identify all sites within the County.

  • The next phase is the service of notices directing owners to undertake necessary works to their properties.

 

Development Charges

Highlights:

  • The Council adopted a new Development Contribution Scheme for the purposes of raising new funding for capital projects.

  • The sum of €3.3m was collected in 2003, an increase of €500,000 on the 2002 level.

  • The members of the Council adopted a programme of capital works for 2004 to be funded from development contributions. This was the first such programme by Members and it will become an annual event.

 

Development Control

Highlights:

  • 2,084 applications received in 2003 - the highest number ever.

  • The sum of €905,265 received in planning fees - 2.1 times the estimated budget.

  • Planning Clinic system expanded - Over 1,500 people used the clinics in 2003.

  • Clinic Customer Survey carried out - initial assessment indicates high level of public satisfaction with the planning clinic service.

 

Enforcement

Highlights:

  • The full staff compliment was reached in 2004 which allowed work on Enforcement to progress.

  • A total of 450 complaints were investigated with 204 being brought to conclusion.

  • The council successfully prosecuted 12 cases and fines up to €1,200 with costs were imposed by the court.

  • Over €100,000 was received in planning retention fees.

  • The Office of the Ombudsman closed many cases - it being happy with our complaints handling procedures.

 

Town Renewal

  • The Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government extended the deadline for tax incentives until December 2006.

  • An additional eight sites were certified by the Council in 2003.

 

Urban Renewal

Highlights:

  • Phase 3 of the six year programme was undertaken Projects were completed at Dunmore, Moneenroe, Galmoy, Kilkenny City and Templeorum. Two others, Graiguenamanagh and Tullaroan were commenced.

 

IT Developments

Highlights:

  • IGIS introduced on the public counter-this is an electronic version of the paper map register.

  • An upgraded planning database was purchased and it is intended to make available on the internet a copy of the database and map register which will enable public access to the planning register from home.

 

Performance Indicators - Forward Planning

Year 2003 2002 2001 2000
No. of Planning Applications 1,657 (2,071 in total) 1,397 (1,892 in total) 1,828 (this includes valid/invalid) 2,023 (this includes valid/invalid)
No. of Permissions 1,173 1,112 1,289 1,504
(as a % of Decisions) 81.68% 81.22% 78% 79%
No. of Refusals 263 257 363 398
(as a % of Decisions) 18.31% 18.77% 22% 21%
% Decided within 8 weeks / 2 months 49% 53% 58% 61%
Deferral Rate 51% 47%    
No. of Invalid Applications 414 (20%) 534 (28%)    

 

 

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Planning and Development 2002

Forward Planning

 

County Development Plan - Development Plan for Kilkenny City and Environs

The process of preparing a new County Development Plan including Development Plans for the Scheduled Towns of Callan, Castlecomer, Graiguenamanagh, Thomastown and for the Waterford City Environs (including Belview Area Action Plan and Kilmacow Village Plan) and the Environs of New Ross concluded with the adoption of both Plans in July, 2002.

 

Area Plans

Work commenced on the preparation of the Area Plans for Gowran and Inistioge which will be made in 2003. Consultation meetings were held in Piltown/Fiddown and Mooncoin and it is expected that proposed Area Plans will be available for these areas early in 2003.

Preliminary work was undertaken in relation to the preparation of an Area Plan for the Poulgour Wetlands Area of the Western Environs of Kilkenny City. The process will now be further developed following the adoption of the Kilkenny City and Environs Plan.

 

Conservation:

A Conservation Officer with responsibilities for both the County and Borough areas was appointed in June 2002. This has enabled:

  • The provision of specialist advice to owners of protected structures and the issue of Statutory Declarations if required.

  • Advice to Area Planners and engineers on the conservation aspects of planning applications.

  • Inclusion of the Conservation Officer on project teams for the Council's own developments, where appropriate.

 

The appointment has also allowed the Council to establish closer working relationships with the prescribed bodies for the architectural heritage and the local amenity societies, as evidenced by a presentation by Duchas, the Heritage Service to the Members of the Council in September.

A priority for 2003 will be to begin a systematic review of the Record of Protected Structures for the County. This will be carried out in tandem with the programme for the village local plans and will allow an up-to-date Record of Protected Structures to be compiled in each case, together with the designation of Architectural Conservation Areas if appropriate.

The DOELG Conservation Grant Scheme administered by the County Council expended €53,287 on 8 projects in 2002. The technical aspects of the Scheme will henceforth be the responsibility of the Conservation Officer.

The Council's commitment to the protection and enhancement of all aspects of heritage is ongoing and, in conjunction with the Heritage Council, it is intended to employ a Heritage Officer in 2003.

 

Derelict Sites

The Council continue in their efforts to eradicate derelict sites. Responsibility for derelict sites has been assigned to the Area Offices and a complete review of the Derelict Sites Register is underway. The tax incentives available under the Town Renewal Scheme should encourage property owners to develop/refurbish derelict sites in the designated towns.

 

Development Charges

Highlights:

  • 1892 planning applications were received in 2002.

  • 13 tree felling licence applications and 37 aforrestation applications were received and processed.

  • 637 commencement notices received.

  • €525,756.70 received in planning application fees.

  • €2,877,578.65 received in development contributions.

 

Strategic Assessments

A Joint Retail Strategy was adopted and incorporated in both Development Plans.

A Joint Housing Strategy (Downloadable Document) was adopted by both Kilkenny County Council and Kilkenny Borough Council in 2002 which is aimed at boosting the supply of land for private and public housing.

Kilkenny County Council and Kilkenny Borough Council commissioned the preparation of a joint Cycle Routes Study for Kilkenny City and Environs which was completed in 2002.

Work continued on Phase 2 of the Kilkenny Active & recreational Open Space Needs Study. It is expected that the Study will be completed in 2003 and will form the basis for the future development of this sector.

Work commenced on the preparation of a Wind Farm Strategy and it is expected that a Strategy will be agreed in 2003

 

Town Renewal

A one year extension of the time limit for commercial and residential tax incentives for the Town Renewal Scheme(LINK DEAD) was announced by the Minister in December. The scheme is now due to expire on the 31st December, 2004. The Minister indicated that this would be the final extension for the Town Renewal Scheme. The Scheme applies to the following towns in County Kilkenny:

  • Castlecomer
  • Callan
  • Thomastown
  • Urlingford
  • Piltown
  • Graiguenamanagh/Tinnahinch

 

In an effort to promote the Scheme the Council produced Brochures early in the year and held information clinics in each of the designated towns. There was a high attendance at the clinics. The Council also produced the first Annual Report for the scheme which covered the period 24th July, 2000 to 30th April, 2002. Strategic Policy Committee 1 Economic Development and Planning Policy now act as the Monitoring Committee for the Scheme.

To avail of the tax incentives a Certificate of Consistency is required from the local authority. Kilkenny County Council granted 5 First Stage Certificates and 1 Final Stage Certificate during 2002.

Guidelines on the Certification process, together with application forms are available from the Planning Section, Kilkenny County Council.

8% of the cost of the project is local matching funding and is a combination of Council own funds and community funds.

 

Urban and Village Renewal

Under the Urban and Village Renewal Programme 2002, Hugginstown, Slieve Rue The Rower and Gallowshill were in receipt of grant aid for environmental improvement works from the Department of the Environment and Local Government. A total of €354,111 was received from the Department towards these works and a number of streetscape improvement works carried out in the Borough area.

The projects all involved consultation with local community groups and included development of amenity areas, construction of footpaths and enhancement of community facilities. 8% of the cost of the project is local matching funding and is a combination of Council own funds and community funds.

 

Woodstock Gardens

The year 2002 saw Woodstock Gardens develop further as an important visitor attraction for Kilkenny and the south east region. The gardens attracted in the region of 25,000 visitors with the majority visiting in the summer months. However the autumn and winter periods were also shown to be busy, particularly over Christmas and the New Year.

Kilkenny County Council's budget for the year was €226,000 with €38,000 of this going to capital repayments. In addition to Council monies, we were successful in sourcing funds from other bodies and were awarded €43,000 from the Civic Trust and €50,000 from BNS Leader, Kilkenny. We were also awarded a grant of €40,000 from the Department of the Environment and Local Government under their Conservation Grants Scheme for works to Woodstock House, this was in addition to a grant of €31,000 which was carried forward from the previous year. This grant is being used to stabilise the front façade of Woodstock House which is currently in a state of collapse.

The new gardening course established in conjunction with Grennan College, Thomastown took is now in its second year. Gardening students from Grennan College continue to work in the gardens two days per week as part of their work experience module. Finally the new Woodstock website is currently being developed and will be ready for launch in 2003.

 

Performance Indicators - Forward Planning

Year 2002 2001 2000
No. of Planning Applications 1,397 (1,892 in total) 1,828 (this includes valid/invalid) 2,023 (this includes valid/invalid)
No. of Permissions 1,112 1,289 1,504
(as a % of Decisions) 81.22% 78% 79%
No. of Refusals 257 363 398
(as a % of Decisions) 18.77% 22% 21%
% Decided within 8 weeks / 2 months 53% 58% 61%
Deferral Rate 47%    
No. of Invalid Applications 534 (28%)    

 

 

 

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Planning and Development 2008

The role and function of Kilkenny County Council's Planning Department is:

  • to determine the physical planning policy of the county.

  • control of new development and building.

  • promotion of industrial, commercial and other appropriate development.


Forward Planning - County Development Plan/Local Area Plans

Highlights:

  • Kilkenny County Development Plan completed and adopted.

  • Kilkenny City & Environs Development Plan completed and adopted.

  • Loughmacask Local Area Plan completed and adopted.

  • Woodstock Local Area Plan completed and adopted.

  • Local Area Plans for Callan, Castlecomer, Thomastown, Graiguenamanagh, Ferrybank/Belview were published in draft form and amended drafts.

  • Strategic Environmental Assessments & Appropriate Assessments were completed in parallel for these plans.

  • Bennettsbridge Local Area Plan Public consultation exercise completed.

  • Kilmacow the Public consultation exercise was commenced.

  • Rural House Design Guidelines were published and are for sale.

  • Village Design Statements were completed and published for Tullaroan and Newmarket/Hugginstown.

Planning for the future!

 

Conservation:

Highlights:

  • The sum of €190,000 was paid under the Conservation Grant Scheme for improvements and works to protected structures during 2008.

  • 2 additions were made to the Record of Protected Structures.

  • The N.I.A.H. survey for County Kilkenny commenced in 2005 and was published in 2006 by the Department of Environment Heritage & Local Government, and updating of the Record of Protected Structures is ongoing.

  • Kilkenny County Council offers a planning consultancy/advisory system for any persons wishing to carry out works to sensitive buildings and Protected Structures within County Kilkenny.

  • A Lime Workshop, "Working with Lime" was carried out in 2008 at Castlecomer Demense, and a total of 88 delegates attended. The event was held over 2 days and included lectures demonstrations and site visits.

  • Thatch Survey: there are approx 100 thatch buildings in County Kilkenny and the 'thatch survey' is ongoing. A total of 25 thatch buildings were inspected in 2008 and are ready for the addition process to be included in the Record of Protected Structures

  • In conjunction with the Heritage Officer, a Directory was published for consultants, contractors, and trades people who work in the area of the "Built and Natural Heritage".

 

Derelict Sites

Highlights:

  • The Council's five Area Offices are responsible for derelict sites with the support of the Director of Service for Planning.

  • Notices under the Derelict Sites Act 1990 are issued where appropriate and Derelict sites will continue to be investigated.

  • 2 Notices under the Derelict Sites Act 1990 were issued in 2008.

  • The County Council continues to identify sites that are suitable for infill housing in order to generate and revive some of the more dilapidated black spots in villages and towns around the County. The acquisition of suitable derelict properties are pursued under the Compulsory Purchase Proceedings of the Derelict Sites 1990.

 

Development Contributions

Highlights:

  • The new Development Contribution Scheme was applied to all permissions granted from 1st January, 2004.

  • Sum of €7.2m was collected in 2008.

 

Development Control

Highlights:

  • 1572 planning applications were received in 2008, and the sum of €700,629.00 was received in planning fees.

  • 577 Commencement Notices under the Building Regulations were received.

  • The Planning Clinic system continues to operate successfully in each of the Area Offices, and the addition of the Group Clinic facility for 'one off house' and extension applications which was introduced in each clinic in 2007 and continued in 2008.

  • A panel for approved Site Suitability Assessors was set up in 2008 and there are a total of 45 on this panel. This has improved the quality and reliability of the information submitted with a planning application, and has resulted in the reduction of referral of planning applications to the Environment Section for verification of the data.

 

Enforcement

Highlights:

  • A total of 229 new complaints were received during 2008.

  • Enforcement Proceedings are ongoing with approximately 43 cases forwarded for legal action.

  • The Council successfully prosecuted 12 cased during 2008.

  • A total of 87 cases were brought to conclusion during 2008.

  • Fines and costs in the sum of €18,527.00 were imposed by the Courts following legal action taken by the Council.

 

Taking in Charge

Highlights:

During 2008 a total of 26 housing estates comprising of 1283 houses were taken in charge by Kilkenny County Council. "The Taking in Charge Protocol" as operated by the Council is the mechanism under which applications are advanced.

44 applications for Taking in Charge have been received and priority will be given to the applications in respect of the older housing estates.

A total of 297 new housing estates have been granted planning permission over the last 10 years.

 

Town Renewal

The Town Renewal Scheme is a tax relief scheme similar to the Urban Renewal Scheme which has been in operation for a number of years.

Highlights:

  • 41 projects have been approved to date under the Town Renewal Scheme.

  • The closing date for receipt of applications for the scheme was 31st December, 2004. However, the qualifying dates for tax relief were extended to 31st July, 2008 where additional conditions are met.

 

IT Developments

Highlights:

  • ePlan, Kilkenny County Council's internet based Planning and GIS system (which was made available online in 2004), offers a link to a GIS system which allows users to view the location of a planning application on a map register. This has continued to be successful throughout 2008 and has proved very popular with members of the public.

  • Throughout the year the Planning Webpage is updated with current events and legislation. 'A Frequently Asked Questions' section was added to assist members of the public with current information and is updated on a regular basis.

  • Kilkenny County Council is in the process of scanning planning files with a view to making the files available online. This will allow members of the public to access any planning file online without having to call to the planning office, (which is the current situation), and to download drawings and plans and any other information as may be required.

Wiki

Kilkenny County Councils Planning and IS Departments released a new Planning wiki website: http://wiki.kilkennycoco.ie. The aim of this wiki is to enable interested and engaged members of the public to participate online in a collaborative discussion around the development of future Local Area Plans (LAPs), thereby enhancing public participation in the process. Any interested parties can register themselves on the wiki and can then make changes or additions to articles within the LAPs. Comments can also be made on any of the content of the wiki.

The Planning wiki contains the Draft Callan and Castlecomer Local Area Plans and is used to pilot the work on the project and if successful it is intended to use the system with future Local Area Plans.

 

 

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Planning and Development 2007

The role and function of Kilkenny County Council's Planning Department is:

  • to determine the physical planning policy of the county.

  • control of new development and building.

  • promotion of industrial, commercial and other appropriate development.


Forward Planning - County Development Plan/Local Area Plans

Highlights:

  • The review of the County & City Environs Development Plans is ongoing, and Public consultation open days were held around the City & County in 2007 during the public display phase. The review of the County & City Development Plans 2008 - 2014 is ongoing.

  • The Draft Loughmacask Local Area Plan was published in August. Proposed amendments were published in December.

  • Consultants were appointed to carry out Local Area Plans for Bennettsbridge, Callan, Castlecomer, Graiguenamanagh, Kilmacow, Thomastown and Waterford City Environs.

  • An amendment to the Piltown Local Area Plan was adopted.

  • Variation No 9 of the Kilkenny County Development Plan 2002 (Thomastown zoning objectives map) was adopted in 2007.

  • The preparation of the Rural Housing Design Guidelines continued.

  • Village Design Statements were prepared for Tullaroan, Newmarket and Hugginstown.

 

Conservation:

Highlights:

  • The sum of €161,000 was paid under the Conservation Grant Scheme for improvements and works to protected structures during 2007.

  • 5 additions were also made to the Record of Protected Structures.

  • Architectural Inventories have been carried out for four villages and Urban Design Studies carried out for a further four villages.

  • The N.I.A.H. survey for County Kilkenny commenced in 2005 and is ongoing.

  • Kilkenny County Council offers a planning consultancy/advisory system for any persons wishing to carry out works to sensitive buildings and protected structures within County Kilkenny.

 

Derelict Sites

Highlights:

  • The Council&'s five Area Offices are responsible for derelict sites with the support of the Director of Service for Planning.

  • 2 Notices under the Derelict Sites Act 1990 were issued in 2007.

  • Derelict sites will continue to be investigated and notices served as appropriate.

  • The County Council continues to identify sites that are suitable for infill housing in order to generate and revive some of the more dilapidated black spots in villages and towns around the County. The acquisition of suitable derelict properties are pursued under the Compulsory Purchase Proceedings of the Derelict Sites Act 1990.

 

Development Contributions

Highlights:

  • The new Development Contribution Scheme was applied to all permissions granted from 1st January, 2004.

  • The sum of €11.7m was collected in 2007.

 

Development Control

Highlights:

  • 2,273 applications were received in 2007 (2,346 in 2006), and the sum of €1,132,000.00 was received in planning fees.

  • 722 Commencement Notices under the Building Regulations were received.

  • The Planning Clinic system continues to operate successfully in each of the Area Offices, with the addition of a Group Clinic facility for 'one off house' and extension applications introduced in each clinic in 2007.

 

Enforcement

Highlights:

  • A total of 180 new complaints were received during 2007.

  • Enforcement Proceedings are ongoing and approximately 32 cases were forwarded for legal action.

  • The Council successfully prosecuted 12 cases during 2007.

  • A total of 44 cases were brought to conclusion during 2007

  • Fines and costs in the sum of €12,000.00 were imposed by the Courts following legal action taken by the Council.

  • Development contributions would also be due on foot of a number of applications which were received as a direct result of enforcement action.

  • This is an area which has evolved significantly over the past 5 years and Kilkenny County Council is pro-active in this area.

 

Town Renewal

The Town Renewal Scheme is a tax relief scheme similar to the Urban Renewal Scheme which has been in operation for a number of years.

Highlights:

  • 40 projects have been approved to date under the Town Renewal Scheme.

  • The closing date for receipt of applications for the scheme was 31st December, 2004. However, the qualifying dates for tax relief was extended to 31st July, 2008 where additional conditions are met.

 

Urban & Village Renewal

Highlights:

  • In 2001 a Strategic Plan for the Implementation of the Urban & Village Renewal Scheme was prepared by Kilkenny County Council. This set out the Council's plans for the years 2001 - 2007 in allocating the Urban and Village renewal funding throughout the County.

  • The Urban and Village Renewal Scheme is funded by the EU and Exchequer through the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government.

  • The grant allocation for the year 2007 was €550,000.

  • The provision of playgrounds for Graiguenamanagh and Newpark Close in Kilkenny commenced in 2007 and should be completed in 2008.

  • Phase 7 of the six year programme was undertaken in 2007 and the following projects were carried out:

Castlecomer Civic Amenity Area Church Avenue completed.
Kilkenny River Nore Linear Park under construction
MUGA (Multi Use Games Area) at Newpark Kilkenny, under construction
Loughboy Park Tree planting footpaths and public lighting- ongoing
MUGA (Multi Use Games Area) at Garringreen completed in 2007
Ballyhale provision of playground completed
Rosbercon Tree Planting completed
Urlingford shrub planting/provision of amenity area completed
Kells provision of paved footpaths in village centre and entrance to Kells Priory completed
Piltown provision of paved area in village entrance/replastering of walls at County council depot /tree planting completed.

 

IT Developments

Highlights:

  • EPlan, Kilkenny County Council's internet based Planning and GIS system (which was made available online in 2004), offers a link to a GIS system which allows users to view the location of a planning application on a map register. This has continued to be successful throughout 2007 and has proved very popular with members of the public.

  • Throughout the year the Planning Webpage is updated with current events and legislation. 'A Frequently Asked Questions' section was added to assist members of the public with current information and is updated on a regular basis.

  • Kilkenny County Council is in the process of scanning planning files with a view to making the files available online. This will allow members of the public to access any planning file online without having to call to the planning office, (which is the current situation), and to download drawings and plans and any other information as may be required.

  • A survey was carried out in 2007 and the results were very positive towards the level of customer service being provided by the Planning Department, including the ongoing over the counter file validation procedure and the extended opening hours.

 

 

 

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Planning 2011

The role and function of Kilkenny County Council's Planning Department is to determine the physical planning policy of the county, to control new development and building and the promotion of industrial, commercial and other appropriate development.
 

Forward planning

  • County Development Plan / Local Area Plans
  • The Local Area Plans for Fiddown and Piltown were completed and adopted in 2011

 

Strategic Environmental Assessments & Appropriate Assessments were completed as necessary in parallel for these plans.

  • Variation 1 to the Kilkenny City & Environs Development Plan - Core Strategy - was prepared and adopted as required by the Planning and Development (Amendment) Act 2010 in July.
  • Variation 2 to the Kilkenny County Development Plan - Core Strategy - was adopted as required by the Planning and Development (Amendment) Act 2010 in September.
  • Amendment No. 1 to the Ferrybank/Belview Local Area Plan was commenced, to bring this LAP into alignment with the County Development Plan (as varied).
  • Amendments to the Callan, Castlecomer, Graiguenamanagh and Thomastown Local Area Plans were commenced to bring the LAPs into alignment with the County Development Plan (as varied).

 

Development Control

  • 649 planning applications were received in 2011, and total of €285,951 was received in planning fees.
  • 210 Commencement Notices under the Building Regulations were received
  • 114 new houses commenced construction in County Kilkenny
  • 23 of these new houses were inspected under Building Control Regulations
  • The Planning Clinic system continues to operate successfully in each of the Area Offices.
  • A panel for approved Site Suitability Assessors was set up in 2008 and there is a total of 67 on this panel. This has improved the quality and reliability of the information submitted with a planning application.

 

In 2011 19,000 planning files were scanned and made available online for applications received between 2000 and 2011

 

 

Development Contributions

  • Total of €1.6m was collected in 2011

 

Enforcement

  • A total of 135 new complaints were received during 2011.
  • Enforcement Proceedings are ongoing with approximately 13 cases forwarded for legal action.
  • The Council successfully prosecuted 7 cases during 2011.
  • Fines and costs in the sum of €32,071 were imposed by the Courts following legal action taken by the Council.

 

The Council carried out 390 rental standard inspections on private rented accommodation during 2011.


Quarries

On 15/11/2011 new legislation commenced requiring Kilkenny County Council to examine every quarry in Co. Kilkenny. 105 quarries have been identified and Kilkenny County Council has a period of 9 months to investigate these.
 

Unfinished Housing Estates

  • A total of 76 housing developments in Co. Kilkenny were included in the National Survey of Unfinished Housing Developments issued by the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government in March 2011.
  • During 2011 all these sites were visited by Planning Staff and Developers were contacted where safety works were required.
  • Application was made to the Department for grant funding for a number of developments where safety works were required and no action had been taken by the Developer.
  • Kilkenny County Council carried out safety works to three unfinished developments in the County with assistance of funds from the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government.

 

Derelict Sites

Notices under the Derelict Sites Act 1990 are issued where appropriate and Derelict sites will continue to be investigated. The acquisition of suitable derelict properties is pursued under the Compulsory Purchase Proceedings of the Derelict Sites 1990 where appropriate.


Conservation

The sum of €12,000 was paid under the Structures at Risk Grant Scheme for conservation works to protected structures in 2011.

Kilkenny County Council provides a planning consultancy/advisory system for any persons wishing to carry out works to buildings of architectural heritage significance and protected structures within County Kilkenny.

 

The Council successfully brought 150 enforcement cases to conclusion during 2011.

 

 

Information Technology in Planning

ePlan, Kilkenny County Council's internet based Planning and GIS system (which was made available online in 2004), offers a link to a GIS system which allows users to view the location of a planning application on a map register. This has continued to be successful throughout 2011 and has proved very popular with members of the public.

  • Throughout the year the Planning Webpage is updated with current events and legislation. 'A Frequently Asked Questions' section was added to assist members of the public with current information and is updated on a regular basis.
  • The consultative website http://lap.kilkennycoco.ie/ is being used as part of the public participation process for the Local Area Plan amendments for Callan, Castlecomer, Thomastown and Graiguenamanagh. This presents each of the amendments with a series of questions and a very user-friendly comment form is available on every page.

 

 

 

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