An Bord Pleanála has again refused planning permission for a major golf tourism development at Palmerstown Demesne, near Johnstown, Co Kildare, describing it as "an obtrusive, poorly integrated and piecemeal development".
The plan by Bridford Developments Ltd - controlled by Jim Mansfield, owner of the Citywest Hotel and leisure complex in Saggart, Co Dublin - for a 195-bedroom hotel and 69 golf apartments had been approved by Kildare County Council.
Upholding an appeal by An Taisce against the council's decision, An Bord Pleanála said the scheme would be "contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area, including the protection of its cultural heritage".
The board said it would also generate a substantial volume of traffic in the vicinity of a major interchange on the N7 and "would thereby adversely affect the carrying capacity of the road junction and set a precedent for other similar developments".
Its third reason for refusing permission was that the provision of sewerage facilities to serve the proposed development had not been adequately resolved. As a result, it would be "premature ... and prejudicial to public health".
An Taisce had argued that the scheme constituted "project splitting" to avoid an environmental impact statement and that the design and location of the hotel was inappropriate in the context of Palmerstown House's status as a protected structure.
Bridford Developments Ltd claimed it was "sensitive and appropriate" and said it was working on a masterplan for other areas of the landholding, including the house. It had also hoped that the hotel would be ready for the Ryder Cup this year.
In June 2004, An Bord Pleanála granted permission on appeal for the retention of a golf course and driving range at Palmerstown Demesne, but turned down plans for a hotel, business park and 59 houses, citing the absence of a masterplan.
The board also refused permission for a day-care hospital on another part of the demesne because it would have been contrary to regional planning guidelines.