A NEIGHBOURING landowner and property developer has appealed the decision by Kerry Co Council to refuse the dancer Michael Flatley permission to build a large cottage on an island in Kenmare Bay, Co Kerry.
However, Mr Flatley of Castlehyde, Fermoy, Co Cork has not appealed the decision by the council last month to turn down his application for what his consultants described as "a modest" 9,100sq ft cottage on a 56 acre-site on the eastern tip of Rossmore Island. It is understood the appeal is without the dancer's consent.
The island, between Sneem and Kenmare, is connected by bridge to the mainland. The house is intended as a second home for Mr Flatley. The proposal for an L-shaped structure, included guest and staff quarters as well as substantial family quarters, courtyard, fountain and garages. It would have seen the demolition of an existing farmhouse.
In August, planners refused the application because of design, scale and visibility, as well as contravention of the Kerry County Development Plan.
Frank Fallon, who is renovating a property on Rossmore Island, has made a lengthy submission to An Bord Pleanála, arguing the refusal should be overturned.
Mr Fallon, who has an address at Newtownshandrom, Charleville, Co Cork and is also based in London, has told the board the project would inject a huge amount of enthusiasm and culture into the local area.
Mr Flatley and his family would provide much needed local employment, he claimed.
"Quite honestly I am absolutely astonished and equally underwhelmed that Kerry Co Council could possibly allow such a valued client to slip through their fingers," Mr Fallon writes.
A spokesman for Mr Fallon said his client would like to ensure Mr Flatley got permission for the land next door to himself. Mr Fallon also wanted some issues clarified, he said.