Published: Wednesday, 11th August, 2010 5:15pm

Deadline for submission on Creggan plan

The deadline for submissions on the draft Creggan Local Area Plan is this Friday, August 13.

The draft plan was published in June and showed Westmeath County Council's plans to develop the area extensively so that it can compete not only a national level, but on an international one.

While there was no mention of a Chinese hub in the plan, the council clearly intends for the area to become an international hub.

However, the plan also made it clear that the Athlone Main Drainage Scheme will need to be in place before any large scale development of the lands can take place.

The plan states:

"The aim of the plan is to develop Creggan as a world class enterprise, innovation and trading hub, underpinned by a vibrant urban structure, excellent infrastructure and high quality environment, which will enhance the quality of life of its residents, and entice visitors and businesses alike."

The plan area takes in 302 hectares of land at Creggan, which is divided into three areas - the existing area of Garrycastle, taking in the business park; Creggan Upper which will be developed commercially and residentially and a 'Strategic Gateway Zone', which the council says presents an opportunity for the development of intensive enterprise activity.

The council plans to develop Creggan as "an enterprise zone with an international profile with employment opportunities for both indigenous and inward investment - significant potential for foreign owned and domestic owned high value industry, including high end, specialised trade, manufacturing, financial, business services and other commercial activities."

The council also envisages Creggan as a centre of excellence for education, research, enterprise and innovation and as a world class business centre. The draft plan also includes a proposal for a new railway station to serve the area.

Once adopted the plan will remain in place from 2010 to 2016, although the council can vary this if necessary.

The plan points out that water supply will not constrain the continued growth of Creggan as the supply for the area is sourced from the Shannon. It also points out that the master sewerage plan for the Creggan area is in the final design stages at present.

The deadline for submissions is this Friday, August 13, at 4pm.

The draft is accompanied by an Environmental Report and can be viewed at the council's website www.westmeathcoco.ie/en/servicesa-z/planning. Submissions can be emailed to planssubmissions@westmeathcoco.ie