A contentious proposal for a housing development in the north Clare coastal village of Lahinch has been granted planning permission.

Clare County Council gave the go-ahead for the development despite the objections of local residents and the nearby Sisters of Mercy, who described the plan as a "concrete jungle".

Anti-social behaviour, over-stretched water, sewage and electricity facilities and threats to the character, and therefore tourism in the village were the main objections expressed by residents.

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Plans for the 9.5 acre site, on Station Road, were lodged last year by Brendan O'Doherty, Paul Montgomery, Patrick Montgomery and John McInerney.

The council gave the go-ahead to the proposals but imposed 44 restrictions on the development, including reducing the number of units from 114 to 96.

In an effort to stop the growth of holiday homes in the area, the council has placed the condition that the homes be used as the main residence of the homeowners, and that the condition be included in the sale of agreement.

In return for permission, the developers are required to pay almost €1 million to the council in developer contributions.

(VB/JM)