Anti-rural sentiments in settlements guidelines - Mayo councillor

CONCERN has been expressed about sustainable residential development and compact settlements guidelines for planning authorities.

They contain some anti-rural sentiments, according to Councillor Al McDonnell, who has questioned the status of the document.

Rural housing guidelines are currently going through the Dáil, he told a committee meeting dealing with planning. However, these other guidelines have also been brought to his attention.

There was talk about compact growth and the need to 'herd' everyone into urban settings.

Dispersed settlement patterns impacted people, the economy and environment, contributing to the social, economic and physical decline of central parts of many cities and towns as population and activities move out, the guidelines state. They create demand for travel and a reliance on carbon intensive private car travel.

Dispersed growth also accelerated environmental degradation through loss of farmland and habitat and impacts on water quality.

Only for it was so serious it would be laughable, commented Councillor McDonnell.

What was the document's status. Did it supersede the county development plan was his query.

Senior planner John McMyler said they have to have regard for all guidelines but he felt these were more a re-emphasis of the urban guidelines.

He did not think they would impact the development plan.