Plans for the future development of Carlow town centre have been passed by local representatives, placing greater emphasis on business expansion.

The proposals had been on public display for ten weeks. Several planning submissions were forwarded to the local authority during that time.

These related to the upgrade of the N9, the promotion of Barrack Street as the core of Carlow town and business developments in the town centre.

Councillors also raised questions over the proposed re-zoning of lands on the Hanover site to allow for a mixed-use scheme.

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Jim Townsend queried the 2010 deadline for the re-zoning, suggesting it should be brought forward. Council colleague Des Hurley disagreed.

He said: "The town should be developed inside out. 4Homes is closing because it is in the wrong location and we should learn from that."

The council's Director of Services Seamus O'Connor said expanding business developments in the town centre would provide "assurety" to current traders.

"Anyone who applies for retail development on lands in that core won't get it unless it is zoned for retail purposes."

County Manager Tom Barry said he was glad that they had reached the end of a considerable process.

"It was right that the members were mindful to strike a balance by protecting employment of the existing businesses in the town."

(PR/JM)