Lidl’s Killarney Expansion Plan Rejected: Traffic Concerns Cited

Lidl Ireland’s plans to open a new store in Killarney have been met with a setback. Kerry County Council has refused planning permission for the proposed development, citing concerns about traffic safety and zoning regulations.

Lidl’s Proposed Store

Lidl Ireland had envisioned a store of approximately 2,300 square meters, with 1,500 square meters dedicated to retail space. The German retailer aimed to create up to 25 full-time jobs in the process. The proposed site, located on Park Road near the Omniplex cinema and McDonald’s, spans 0.95 hectares.

Lidl argued that the new store would enhance the vitality of Killarney town center by providing additional shopping choices and competition for residents.

Council’s Reasons for Refusal

Kerry County Council outlined two primary reasons for rejecting the application:

* **Zoning Violation:** The proposed site is zoned Mixed Use, where retail development is generally not permitted.
* **Traffic Safety Concerns:** The development would have relied on a new, uncontrolled junction onto Park Road, a busy artery leading into the town center. Council officials expressed concerns that this would increase traffic conflict points, posing a hazard to both pedestrians and motorists.

The council concluded that the additional traffic generated by the new Lidl store at this location, situated between two existing uncontrolled junctions, would create a significant traffic hazard and obstruct public access.

Lidl’s Next Steps

Lidl Ireland has until early January 2024 to consider an appeal of the council’s decision to An Bórd Pleanála, Ireland’s independent planning board.

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