Athlone housing development appealed due to wildlife concerns

Planning permission granted for 70 new homes in Athlone has been appealed to An Bord Pleanála
The appeal contains numerous concerns from locals over the effect the development could have on local wildlife.
Marina Quarter Limited were granted planning permission to construct the homes at Cornamaddy in Athlone following amendments to a previously granted permission for 35 homes.

Westmeath County Council had granted the changes to the application in October, with 22 conditions attached.
Appeals lodged against the permission contain arguments that any such development on site will disrupt local flora and fauna including a local badger population.
The higher planning authority will decide on the issue in April of next year.