Short term let apartment proposal appealed to Bord Pleanála

An appeal has been lodged with An Bord Pleanála against the granting of planning permission for 39 apartments in Airbnb style short term accommodation on Ashbourne's High Street.

Star Stone Property Investments was given the green light by Meath County Council last month for the development which also included four residential apartments and requires the construction of two additional storeys on existing buildings to facilitate the proposal. Works also include limited change of use of some of the existing accommodation on the floors below.

The development address is listed as apartments 1-4 The Square, Units 5-12 and Level 1.0 / Level 1.5 of the Existing Multistorey Carpark, Killegland Street, Ashbourne. A total of 25 submissions were received on the plans raising several concerns including that the need for tourism accommodation was not demonstrated.

Meath County Council has recently granted planning permission for the development, subject to conditions.

Three third party appeals have now been lodged against Meath Co Council's decision to grant planning permission. A first party appeal has also been lodged by Star Stone Property Investments which is appealing three of the conditions imposed by Meath County Council including one that the visitor stays would be limited to a maximum of 14 days. The applicant argued that this does not provide sufficient flexibility to make the development financially viable.

Star Stone Property Group acquired High Street Ashbourne Shopping District in 2022. The property has over 40 commercial tenants within the area including New Look, Boots, Regatta and Gym Plus.