A new planning application to build three homes on a green area in the Foxbury estate in Bettystown has been met with strong opposition from local councillor Stephen McKee.
The South Drogheda and East Meath Fianna Fáil councillor said: I continue to strongly oppose any development on the beautiful Green Area of Foxbury on behalf of local residents. This is the second such planning application made in recent months, with the first having already been refused by Meath County Council.
He said the green space is an important part of the estate and is used regularly by families and children.
Foxbury is a small, mature, residential estate of 34 homes which is almost 30 years old. The green space in question on which it is proposed to construct these homes is of very high quality and value to residents. It is a space that is used daily by local children to play on and enjoy, and provides an important safe, open space for the benefit of all residents.
Councillor McKee said residents have always understood that the green areas were intended to remain as shared space.
It has always been the belief and understanding of residents that the green areas of Foxbury are for the sole use and enjoyment of the residents and that no part of them could be developed upon. It is simply inconceivable that planning for any homes would be given permission on such an important piece of green space.
He also raised concerns about the location of the proposed development in an area at risk of flooding.
The proposed development site is situated in a Zone B site with regard to flood risk, meaning it is at high risk of flooding. We have seen in recent years the devastation caused in the East Meath area as a result of flooding. There is a serious risk that additional housing at this location will exacerbate the current flooding problems. This reason alone should prevent planning from being granted on this site.”
Councillor McKee is encouraging residents in Foxbury and the wider area to make submissions on the application.
A grant of planning permission for homes on a Green Area amenity within an established housing development, such as Foxbury could set a dangerous and undesirable precedent for future planning applications in the East Meath area. Submissions in writing to the Council should be made on or before April 02 nd next.
