A Chara,

With reference to the above draft development plan I wish to make the following submission in relation to the proposed development at Garraun.

I have lived at Cartron, Oranmore all of my life and my parents are also residents here. I have attended school in Oranmore, I work in the village, I attend the gym in the village and am a regular swimmer in the sea at Renville. I also socialise regularly in the Oranmore area.

It is because of those reasons that vehicular access to Oranmore via the Coast Road is essential due to my work in Oranmore village and my general wellbeing. I require my own transport for my job and often late nights. The increased cost incurred by the proposed 18km round trip to and from the village if the bridge is closed at Cartron, as well its impact on our local environment is unacceptable.

I am also deeply concerned on the impact on the environment if this development goes ahead. Growing up in the countryside has given me a great appreciation for nature. The proposed plan for up to 1,000 housing units and commercial centre, would severely impact this rural area. We currently enjoy the close proximity of wildlife such as badgers, foxes, hedgehogs, bats, hares and rabbits roaming freely. Hedgehogs in particular are at risk at the moment and any disturbance to their habitats would be detrimental to their species.

 We also have many bird species including pheasants, hawks and smaller garden birds, as well as bees all of which enjoy the hedgerows and pockets of wild habitat. The proposed area for ecological conservation is not large enough. The woodlands and hedgerows surrounding Cartron should be retained to preserve as much of the ecosystem of our area as possible.  

We also recognise the importance of the natural environment to our physical and mental health, should this be removed it would have adverse effects on the health of our community. 

It is important for this community that vehicular access under Cartron Bridge to the Coast Road and that our environment is protected. This needs to be reconsidered before any permission is granted for this new development.

Signed: Sarah Price