Oral Hearing On IKEA Dublin Store Plans

Written by Administrator February 21, 2007

IKEA's plans to open up shop just off the M50 in north Dublin are to be put to the test at an oral hearing next month. An Bord Pleanála confirmed today it would allow objectors, including the National Roads Authority, to put their case at a meeting on March 20^th. In October, Fingal County Council granted planning permission, with more than two dozen conditions, for the Swedish furniture giant to open a massive outlet in Ballymun.

If it gets the go ahead the investment in the local area, one in much need of regeneration, would be worth €150m and create 500 jobs, but it has been contested on the grounds that it would compound the problems already faced by motorists on the gridlocked M50. The NRA was one of seven parties to appeal against the initial decision to grant planning permission stating there were serious concerns about the knock-on effect the store would have on the M50.

The body believes the guaranteed high number of shoppers trying to get to the outlet will lead to tailbacks and traffic jams backing on to the motorway. Treasury Holdings, which is redeveloping the old Ballymun shopping centre, said IKEA could have a significant negative impact on the road network. Tesco Ireland also made a submission in relation to traffic concerns.

* Please note: Furniture.ie is not authorised to represent, approved or endorsed by IKEA and is not associated with IKEA.

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