Laois Council planners decide on global car rental giant's Portlaoise plans

One of the world's biggest car rental businesses is set to start operating in Laois with the green light given for the construction of a premises in Portlaoise by Laois County Council  just before Christmas.

ERAC Ireland Ltd (Enterprise Rent A Car) which operates globally, will expand to Portlaoise to a site on the New Road. They have approval to demolish derelict structures and build a new office, which they say will create "multiple jobs".

Enterprise Rent-A-Car operates the largest rental network globally. With a network of approximately 9,500 car rental locations in nearly 100 countries. Several countries within the Enterprise network are operated through franchise partnerships.

The 0.157 hectare site is near the Kyle Shopping Centre, facing Triogue Place housing estate.

Planners had requested further information after the application was first lodged in June 2024. It was finally approved in mid-December.

The applicant had to show there there would be safe sightlines by drivers using the site. They agreed to move a proposed car wash away from existing trees. They had to supply proof that the public sewer could take an extra load, and that there would be turning space for emergency and refuse vehicles. There were also queries about the noise of the carwash, the boundary treatments, lighting, opening hours and road markings.

"The site was previously used for a Haulage and Auctioneering business for years before becoming a derelict warehouse storage building.

"ERAC Ireland Limited has been based across the region of Ireland and look to expand to more towns allowing it easier and more efficient for customers and consumers to rent cars from them," the application stated.

They will demolish the single storey storage building and the associated pump house, and construct a modular office building to be used as a car rental hub along with a detached canopy to be used as a car wash/valeting bay.

"The proposed development provides expansion to its growing company which will create several jobs in the Portlaoise area, the unit is made of site reducing construction waste and using renewable materials where at all possible. The unit will be
constructed to current building regulation standard delivering a minimum A3 energy rating." MORE BELOW PICTURE.

"The proposal is to erect one commercial building and detached wash bay which allows ERAC Ireland Limited to expand their business to Portlaoise Providing multiple jobs. The proposal will improve Laois County as a whole as it allows future expansion for businesses and creates jobs within the county.

"The proposed site is well landscaped and provides safe and easy circulation for any member of the public or
private sector. The proposal is consistent with the guidelines of Urban development and DMURS. The proposed development seeks to supply a better use to the existing site in Portlaoise Town," their application claims. 

Also proposed is a relocated vehicular entrance, 25 car parking spaces, Ev charging spaces, landscaping, bicycle shelter, lighting, signage, connection to public mains, and all ancillary works.

The site is zoned Town Centre – Primary/Core Retail Area in the Laois County Development plan. See more on plan here.