HomeMy WebLinkAbout2560410 - Report Received from Community DevelopmentPlanning 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 253 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 for residents is provided by one or two cars, subject to driver
availability. There is no bus service available. Residents indicate their intention to travel by
entering their names on the transport timetable, however, capacity is limited to
approximately six passengers per vehicle.
According to the current transport timetable, the last scheduled trip to Carrickmacross
operates at 4:45pm from Monday to Friday, returning at 5:00pm. On Saturdays, the final
trip departs at 3:45pm and returns at 4:00pm. No transport service is provided on Sundays.
Due to the demand for limited transport availability, residents’ names are often removed
and replaced with those of other residents, making this an unreliable system. This increases
the risk of residents missing appointments and other important engagements.
The current transport arrangements are 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 253 residents.
o Lack of sufficient capacity 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
While the further information provided is noted, 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 with 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,
Nicola Payne
A/Director
Community Development Section
Monaghan County Council