Deputy Billy Timmins in a submission to Wicklow County Council on a change to the County Development Plan, has proposed that the growth of Blessington should be halted and that the necessary infrastructure and amenities should be put in place. He pointed out that the projected population growth recommended for Blessington between now and 2016 is 6,500, but that in the absence of the census figures (which will not be available until July 2006) these proposals should be “put on hold”.

Deputy Timmins said that Blessington has taken more than its fair share of growth in recent years and that the issues of the proposed By-pass (the holding up of which is a disgrace), the development of new schools, the provision of amenities and a Park and Ride facility for the Luas all need to be dealt with before any more major planning permissions are granted.
The process of a Development Plan for Blessington will commence in the week ahead and it is imperative that as many views as possible are sought and considered.

Consultation meetings will take place on Friday 9 June 3pm – 9pm in St Kevin’s Community Centre Blessington, telephone Planning Section, Wicklow County Council for an appointment 0404 20100.