Busy Laois family supermarket gets green light for major expansion

A busy family run Laois supermarket in Portlaoise town centre has been granted planning for a major redesign including a three storey rear extension.

The site owner Kentian Ltd lodged a planning application to Laois County Council for an extension to Mulhall's SuperValu and the adjoining pharmacy in Lyster Square. They are planning to build a three-storey extension to the rear of the existing Kellyville centre. CONTINUE READING BELOW PHOTO

Architect's image of the proposed new front of Mulhall's SuperValu

They also plan a ground floor extension to the rear of the existing supermarket and to the side and front of the existing pharmacy. Permission was also sought for new 1st floor offices, canteen, stores, staircases and other associated internal alterations. The applicant sought permission for demolition of single storey stores to the rear of Supervalu and an alteration to the rear carpark.  They want to change a house at 10 Kellyville Park from Residential zoning status to office use.

"No.10 Kellyville Park is semi-detached early 20th century private residential dwelling in ownership of the applicant. This application proposes a change of use of No.10 Kellyville Park from residential to office use. No.10 Kellyville Park is not a Protected Structure but is listed on the NIAH – National Inventory of Architectural Heritage."

The applicant sought to remove the side boundary wall and hedge at the house to create new rear access to the business. Finally Kentian Ltd sought permission for the amalgamation and alterations of adjacent retail units with the supermarket unit to form additional floor area and stores on Bull Lane. Signage, landscaping, and associated site works at No. 10 Kellyville Park/ Bull Lane/ Rear of Mulhall's Supervalu, Kellyville Centre, Portlaoise, Co. Laois.

A significant amount of further information was requested from the applicant including clarification about  boundary lines and boundary treatment. Questions were asked about surface water disposal and the applicant was asked to submit auto track analysis for articulated vehicles to include proposed entry, exit and turning manoeuvers of an articulated vehicle using the one-way system. A number of road design queries were also put to the applicant and they were asked to submit a road safety audit.

Two submissions were received from the public which raised concerns about the impact of increased traffic levels on Kellyville Park. 

Laois County Council granted planning permission with 19 conditions attached. 

Commenting on the decision the Council planner said: "The proposed development would not seriously injure the amenities of the area, would not be prejudicial to public health, would be acceptable in terms of traffic safety and would be in accordance with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area."