Plans for major development at GAA club in Offaly put on hold

Plans for a major development at a GAA club in Offaly have been put on hold.

Clara GAA Club is seeking permission for a major development at its grounds at the former convent on the Kilbeggan Road in the town. 

The club is planning to refurbish the existing St. Brigid’s Convent building which will include the demolition of existing ball wall and rear extensions. It is also planning the construction of a two-storey extension to the rear of the existing building on a phased basis providing dressing rooms and associated facilities including toilets, storage, plant room and gym

The plans also include the erection of a spectator stand, ball wall and all-weather training area. The development will also incorporate the provision of carparking, paths, paving, walking track lighting, floodlighting, alterations to pitches, ball stops, dug-outs, landscaping, fencing and railings.

However those plans are on hold for now after Offaly County Council sought considerable further information before making a decision on the planning application. 

The club has been asked to clarify whether they are proposing to change the use of the existing St. Brigid’s Convent
building and if so, what is the proposed uses.

The disused Clara - Banagher railway line intersects the subject site and the club has been asked to indicate, in relation to ‘Green Infrastructure Linkages’ and ‘Developing of an Amenity Route along the disused Clara-Banagher railway,’ how the proposed development complies with objectives BLO 02 & BLO 05.

Offaly County Council has also noted that the subject site lands do not appear to be registered in the name of Clara GAA Club and the club has been asked to clarify if they own the site or obtain a letter of consent from the current owners.

In total Offaly County Council has asked for further information on 13 separate points.