An area close to a known flood plain in County Kerry has been re-zoned for a greater scope of development.

It was agreed the lands in Listowel, previously zoned 'residential low density', could be used for 'general development'.

The decision to change the publicly-owned land's status was made at a monthly county council meeting.

It is believed the re-zoning was made in order to maximise the land's potential under new flood risk management guidelines from central government.

Local councillors have continued attempts to address fears raised by residents.

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The council purchased the lands last June, and is still awaiting any development proposals.

In September Environment Minister John Gormley introduced new flood plain guidelines, which threatened the Listowel land's potential.

However, Listowel Town Manager Anne Haugh told elected representatives that re-zoning the site would open up a greater scope of development opportunities.

The Irish Office of Public Works has said the zoning for 'residential low density' is probably not recommended, under government flood risk guidelines.

Questioned were raised over the re-zoning of the land by councillor Tom Walsh.

He said: "I'm a small bit worried as we're only dealing with a draft document... is it not being done in haste without the full flood risk management guide being studied by all of us?"

Mr Walsh asked if the zoning proposal brought by Ms Haugh was intended by Kerry County Council to "correct an anomaly that's down there?"

The Town Manager told Mr Walsh that the new zoning was very flexible and would not rule any type of building out completely.

(PR/JM)