The Irish planning appeals body has rejected proposals for a Buncrana mixed-use development, which could have created up to 90 building jobs.

Prior to An Bord Pleanála's decision, the plans had been approved by the local council.

Shay McCallion intended to construct the state-of-the-art project at St Orna's Road.

The scheme would have included retail and office space, as well as residential units.

A local residents group objected to the plans and lodged submissions with the planning body.

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Today they successfully overturned Buncrana council's original approval.

McCallion Developments said it would have invested more than €20m into the project.

It is believed around 90 construction jobs were to be created at the development.

Thirteen residents expressed concerns overs the town centre zoning, and suggested the proposal would result in loss of privacy and devalue local property.

An Bord Pleanála refused permission on a number of grounds.

Officials ruled the design of the proposed development does not justify the demolition of the existing two-storey building on site.

The body also said the development would be overbearing and seriously injure the amenity of property in the vicinity and therefore, be contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.

(PR/BMcc)