Galway's rapid development has created a new planning row in the suburb of Salthill, where locals are objecting to proposals for a £15 million, nine-storey apartment and retail scheme.
The scheme has been earmarked for the sites of the Grand and Banba hotels on the seafront. The 173-apartment block, with shops and underground parking, could be one of the biggest constructed in Galway if it is given planning permission. Part of it will qualify for tax designation under the Finance Act's seaside resort scheme, which means half the apartments will be short-term lettings.
Mr Brian Cunningham, who is behind the project, met locals last week to allay their fears. Dr Clare Leon, spokeswoman for the San Antonio residents' group, said Mr Cunningham and his Dublin-based architects, James Toomey, of South William Street, had brought no scale models or plans to the meeting.
"We are very disappointed with the lack of information given to us," said Dr Leon. "They couldn't tell us how high the building was going to be, or the density of the residential element. This is a small community, with fourth to fifth-generation families, and we are very concerned at the influx of what may be a transitory population.
Mr Cunningham said he had been delighted to get the opportunity to meet residents and intended to make a full presentation with plans, an artist's impression and videoscope soon.
Mr Cunningham, who is from Glenamaddy, Co Galway, and who has been behind a development on Galway's Circular Road, said he and his wife were the sole owners and directors of the company involved, Salthill Properties. He said there was no truth in rumours that the retail magnate, Mr Ben Dunne, was involved. "I don't know Ben Dunne from Adam."
He said he was seeking planning permission to add a storey to the Grand Hotel. The development on two acres would comprise 76 one-bedroom apartments, 88 two-bedroom apartments and the rest would be penthouses. The shops would face the seafront.
He said the development would act as a "catalyst" for Salthill if it received planning permission.
