Posted online: Jan 20th, 2010

A recent planning application, which seeks to construct a 12 million euro retail/commercial and housing development in Buncrana, has been described as a “huge boost of confidence in the town.”

Last month, the “Inish TImes” revealed Rishton Ltd, a subsidiary of Harcourt Developments, hadsubmitted the application to Buncrana County Council, which, if granted, could create up to 300 jobs.

Speaking at the recent Buncrana Town Council meeting, County Manager Michael McLoone confirmed the “signifigant application” had been”recently validated and is due for decision on Fenruary 19.”

Councillor Padraig MacLochlainn said the “absolutely massive proposal,”which will sit on the site of the formr Fruit of the Loom site at Ballymacarry, is very, very exciting.”

He said: “This proposal came before the previous Council for the rezoning of the site and was supported by that previous Council. 

“I am also very mindful that there are two other applications which have already been given planning permission –  Palladio and Jansu – and hopefully these can progress.”

“These are serious operators, this is Harcourt Developments and the fact they’re going ahead with this planning application in the current economic climate is a huge boost of confidence in Buncrana. 

“It’s one hell of a good new story for Buncrana and it couldn’t come at a better time. It’s very, very exciting.”

Mayor Lee Tedstone also welcomed the application and said he hoped it would go through “as soon as possible.”