Planning Agency Intervenes in Service Station Hours Dispute

Planning Agency Asked to Intervene in Dispute Over 24/7 Service Station Operations

Limerick City and County Council has ruled that Circle K at Ennis Road in Caherdavin should not operate between midnight and 7 a.m., citing concerns from residents about light and noise overspill affecting their quality of life.

Circle K’s Decision to Seek An Bord Pleanala Review

Responding to the local authority’s decision, Ard Services, which operates Circle K’s Irish outlets, has formally requested An Bord Pleanala, the national planning appeals body, to intervene in this dispute. Previously, a spokesperson for Circle K had indicated their intention to challenge Limerick City and County Council’s ruling.

Circle K continues to operate 24 hours a day until a resolution is reached. In their submission to An Bord Pleanala, Circle K’s representatives emphasized their intention to maximize the commercial viability of the service station by functioning as a convenience retail shop and fueling facility.

Resident Concerns and Their Impact

The primary objection to Circle K’s 24/7 operations came from four residents. However, three of these objections were on behalf of multiple people. One unnamed resident expressed extreme anxiety about the constant noise and the lack of a good night’s sleep, stating it affected their everyday lives.

The Legal Basis of Circle K’s Appeal

Circle K has pointed out in its submission that there is no specific provision in the local development plan that allows the local authority to restrict the hours of operation for service stations within the area. This argument is central to their appeal to An Bord Pleanala.

The operators of Circle K are open to negotiating with residents to reach a satisfactory outcome. Their willingness to engage in dialogue indicates a compromise-minded approach to the controversy.

The Process Ahead

The decision now rests with An Bord Pleanala. The appeal process could take several months, during which community groups and interested parties may be invited to provide evidence or testimony. The outcome of this case will have implications for operational hours of service stations in similar locations.

Conclusion

The controversy surrounding Circle K’s 24/7 operations highlights the delicate balance between commercial viability and residents’ quality of life. As An Bord Pleanala reviews the case, both parties have shown a willingness to find a solution. For now, residents of Caherdavin must continue to navigate these altered hours while awaiting the final decision.

For more information on the dispute and its potential implications, stay tuned to our updates. If you are a resident affected by this decision or have opinions on the matter, we welcome your comments below.