Clare GAA’s ambitious plans for the redevelopment of it’s Caherlohan centre of excellence have been put on hold.
The local authority has flagged concerns over traffic safety, wastewater infrastructure and horseshoe bats at the Tulla facility.
In June, Clare County Board submitted proposals for a major revamp of Caherlohan , which includes a 1-2 storey extension to the main building, 3 new playing pitches, including an all-weather pitch, a new gym, dressing rooms, floodlights, and ball wall.
A covered spectator stand is also in the designs for pitch 3, along with a dedicated area to the north of the main building that would be used as an occasional farmers market and sensory gardens.
But the local authority is now seeking further information from Clare GAA on how it will ensure its plans overcome potential problems posed by the location and available infrastructure.
Among them is Caherlohan’s proximity to the Newgrove House, which is a special area of conservation designated for the protection of the lesser horseshoe bat species.
Clare County Council says it cannot reach a determination that the construction of new pitches and floodlights at Caherlohan will not have a significant impact on the internationally recognised site and has ordered Clare GAA to carry out a full ecological assessment.
The local authority has also ordered Clare GAA to confirm its compliance with a former grant of planning permission relating to connection to a wastewater treatment plant serving Caherlohan, stating that no compliance documents have been submitted to date.
Concerns have also been raised over traffic safety, as the entrance to the facility is located off a road with an 80KM/H speed limit.
According to Clare County Council, sight lines to the east are partially obstructed by existing gate pillars and the boundary wall.
Clare GAA has now been ordered to submit proposals to prevent traffic from queuing during blitzes and other major events.
Clare GAA must submit the revised plans requested by Clare County Council before a decision can be reached on the planning decision.
