A planning application to transform a former retail unit into a funeral home on Main Street, Leixlip, Co Kildare has been refused.

The location of the proposed development was Mill House, in the small shop unit beside French Estates, formally John Paul's Menswear.

The Council turned down the proposal on several grounds. The development was seen as a somewhat inappropriate use of the location and would not improve the vitality and vibrancy of the town centre, which is a key objective of the Leixlip Local Area Plan.

It was also suggested that the proposed development would result in traffic chaos and would therefore be contrary to proper planning and sustainable development of the area.

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Local councillor, Catherine Murphy, questioned the sensitivity of the location, given its close proximity to many night-time activities, and commented: "The application also did not make it clear how the building would function internally, given that it is a protected building. It has, for example, a very narrow staircase."

While Murphy acknowledges the fact that there are far too many buildings either not in use or under-used on, or in close proximity to Main Street, she is also supportive of increasing commercial activity within the town.

"In my view this particular development would inhibit rather grow that sector. For those reasons, I applaud the decision made by Kildare County Council to refuse permission, which was done both quickly and comprehensively."

According to www.Unearth.com, plans to change the retail unit into a funeral home - together with signage, internal alterations, and all associated site-works - were submitted at the end of November last year.

It is now open to the applicant to appeal to An Bord Pleanala. If they decide to do so, they have four weeks from the date of refusal.

(JG/BMcC)