Off-grid project for artists proposed

A unique off-grid project powered by solar energy where artists can live and work is proposed for the Clonfinlough area of Offaly, just a few kilometres from Clonmacnoise.

Tony Kilduff has indicated in a new planning notice that he intends to submit a proposal to Offaly County Council for the development on a 8.28 hectare site in the Lakelands townland.

It would comprise of the four new single storey dwellings, three of which would be single bed live/work artist studio units, the fourth would be a two-bed house for the sole use of the owner/client.

The units are proposed to be standalone and off-grid powered by solar array or panels laid out at ground level of the site. Water would be provided via a well on-site, while most of the surface water run off would be collected and filtered for reuse as potable or drinking water and non potable water which is not fit for human consumption but can be used in toilets, etc.

In addition a 19th century single-storey stone-built farm cottage would be retained and refurbished as part of the project, to be repurposed as a communal kitchen and dining area. This building will be extended to the northern gable to provide a toilet/bathroom block.

In terms of wastewater, the group of houses would be serviced by a septic tank system installed to specifications by specialists.

An access road and gateway would be refurbished to the project from the public road, while trees and hedging are intended to screen the development from the road and the environs.

A Natura Impact Statement will accompany the application, according to the recently published planning notice.

At the time of going to press, the planning documents were not available to view on the Offaly County Council website.