Developers submit new application for Backlands project

Kells Development Company has confirmed that its €125 million plan to develop a new town square, major shopping centre, housing, creche and library on its Backlands site in the town will generate up to 350 construction jobs and 400 permanent positions when it opens. The company"s confirmation follows its submission last week of a revised planning application for the major development in Kells. The new plan builds upon the previous draft and 'responded positively to feedback and requests made by the relevant sectors of the county council and the wider public,' said company spokesman Alan McEntee this week. Consultations had gone on for over a year between the parties, following Meath County Council planners" rejection of the proposal last year. Mr McEntee noted the overwhelming cross-party support from local councillors and the town"s Chamber of Commerce. He estimated the new town centre would take two years to build, once planning permission had been secured. The mixed use of retail, commercial and residential elements would greatly enhance the quality of life for the people of Kells and the surrounding area, 'bringing the best of facilities, both civic and commercial, to their doorstep,' added Mr McEntee. The Kells Development Company Ltd comprises Lagan Developments, Finbarr McLoughlin/MCL Properties and Cusack Homes. Lagan Developments is part of the Lagan Group, the major quarrying and construction firm which has 1,500 employees across its operations here and in the UK, including the Navan Retail Park, currently under construction. Mr McLoughlin lives in Kells and his firm, MCL Properties, has developed numerous projects there, in England and the USA. Its best-known developments in the county are Old Balreask Woods, Navan, and Headfort Demesne, Kells. Cusack Homes is a family-owned firm set up by Marie and the late John Cusack, which owns Knightsbrook Hotel and Golf Resort and the Castle Arch Hotel, Trim, as well as Navan"s Newgrange and Ardboyne Hotels. The Kells Backlands project has been designed by OBK Architects, a member of the Equator European Architects Group, and one of Ireland"s leading architectural and design firms.