HomeMy WebLinkAbout2560410 - Report Received from Internal Staff No 2Planning Observation
To: Monaghan County Council Planning Section
Re: Planning Application Reference 2560410
Applicant: Leah Unicorn Limited
Context
Our understanding is that the property at Treacys M Hotel, Losset, Kingscourt Road,
Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan, currently accommodates approximately 255 adult
International Protection Applicants and individuals with status under the International
Protection Accommodation Services (IPAS).
National IPAS guidelines require that where accommodation is located more than 2 km from
a large town, a free and reliable transport service must be provided to enable residents to
access essential services, appointments and transport links.
At present, transport provision for residents consists of a single car operating Monday to
Friday, with limited weekend availability and no evening service. This arrangement is
inadequate for the current population and will be further strained by any proposed
expansion.
Observation
Through our work with Monaghan Community Integration Forum, the following concerns
have been raised:
1. Inadequate Transport Infrastructure
o The existing transport service cannot meet the needs of 255 residents.
o Lack of evening and weekend services severely restricts access to
employment, education, healthcare, and community activities.
2. Absence of Public Transport Connectivity
o Treacys M Hotel is approximately 5 km from Carrickmacross, where essential
services are located.
o There are no official public transport stops serving this location, leaving
residents isolated.
3. Contravention of Sustainable Development Principles
o National and regional planning policies emphasise accessibility and
sustainable transport.
o The absence of public transport options increases reliance on private vehicles
or costly taxis, contrary to these principles.
4. Impact on Social Inclusion and Integration
o Without reliable transport, residents face significant barriers to integration,
undermining IPAS objectives grounded in integration and humanitarian
principles which includes access to basic supports and essential services.
5. Safety Concerns
o Walking or cycling to Carrickmacross is unsafe due to the lack of footpaths,
lighting, and the high-risk nature of the R179 route.
Requested Action
We respectfully request that planning approval be conditional upon the following:
• Development and implementation of a comprehensive transport plan for IPAS
residents, including:
o Regular and frequent transport services also covering evenings and
weekends.
o Sufficient capacity for the current and proposed population.
• Provision of safe pedestrian and cycling infrastructure (footpaths and lighting) along
the route to Carrickmacross.
This condition is essential to uphold social inclusion principles and ensure the safety and
well-being of residents.
Is mise, le meas,
Aisling Kierans, A/Senior Executive Officer
Community Development Section
Monaghan County Council