BORD Pleanala has given thumbs down to the redevelopment of Limerick Boat Club, leading to mixed reactions.
The proposed development comprised a mixed-use scheme of leisure, recreation, office, civic uses, with the central focus being the replacement of the existing Boat Club, delisted by Limerick City Council from being a protected structure.
It also included a new pedestrian bridge from Poor Man’s Kilkee to Wellesley Pier.
Cllr Kathleen Leddin told the Limerick Post:.
“This is a vindication of what I’ve been saying – that the proposed development was totally out of character with this very special area. It is the right decision – the majority of Limerick people, while wanting to see the boat club flourish, felt the plans submitted were totally out of keeping with this riverscape and the historical nature of Sarsfield Bridge”.
The application had been opposed by the Thomond Archaeological and Historical Society, Greg Leddin of the North Circular Road, and the Shannon Rowing Club.
Reasons given by An Bord Pleanala for refusal cite: height, scale and bulk, which “would interfere with views of the river Shannon and of protected structures, as seen from the quays, side streets and existing bridges and overdevelopment of a restricted island site”.
It was also considered by the planning authority that the development would “materially and adversely affect the character of Sarsfield Bridge and its curtilage as a protected structure.”
Disappointed with the result, Cllr Joe Leddin who is a member of Limerick Boat Club, said the planning application can be revisited.
“The building was delisted and the pier rezoned from open space to commercial development – this result is disappointing but I’m looking forward to this being looked at again and a fresh application being resubmitted”.
Eugene Falconer, honorary secretary of Shannon Rowing Club, said there is “absolutely no animosity between the Limerick Boat Club and ourselves.
“I welcome the planning authority’s decision but feel the emphasis of the developer should have been to restore the boat club to its original style – a metal and glass building would have obstructed the view of King John’s Castle.”
Mr Falconer said that Shannon Rowing Club, employed its own heritage architect and has spent considerable sums of money in maintaining their rowing club building in accordance with the standards relating to protected structures.
“However, we welcome responsible development along the river frontage and look forward to the day when a proper walkway can be extended along the weir and if possible through our own property and on to the river frontage at Clohessy’s pub and restaurant -this would give the people of Limerick the opportunity to engage with the river”.
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