Rio Real Properties has been granted conditional planning permission to build a 99-home residential development in Waterford City along with a new crèche at the Lacken Road, Carrigroe, Kilbarry.

The approved development includes 32 duplex two-bedroom apartments, a mix of three and four-bedroom houses, a new entrance from the existing LIHAF road, parking, cycle spaces, public open space, wetlands, drainage works, street lighting and landscaping.

Several submissions were made during the planning process, with local residents raising concerns about the impact the development could have on the surrounding area.

One neighbouring landowner said the development borders their agricultural land and raised concerns that construction could affect field drainage. They also said removing existing hedgerows could damage local wildlife and questioned the safety of the nearby Lacken Road due to extra traffic. The landowner asked the council to refuse permission.

Other submissions raised concerns about zoning and the local water supply.

Despite the objections, Waterford City and County Council granted permission, subject to 28 planning conditions.

Among the conditions is a requirement for the developer to pay €382,038 to the council before construction begins. The money will go towards public infrastructure and facilities in the area, with €229,222.80 allocated for transport and drainage projects and €152,815.20 for community and recreation facilities.

The developer must also lodge a bond of €878,625 to ensure roads, footpaths, public open spaces and other services are completed to the required standard before the estate is taken in charge by the local authority.

Other conditions require the developer to protect nearby wildlife, follow the measures set out in the Natura Impact Statement, complete archaeological assessments before ground works begin and put plans in place to control noise, dust and construction traffic during the build.