Further information sough on Naas Supervalu expansion
Supervalu, Naas
PLANS for a major extension and redevelopment of the existing SuperValu supermarket in Naas have prompted Kildare County Council to request further information from the developer.
Applicant John Rushe is seeking planning permission for works at the SuperValu store on Fairgreen Street, Naas East, including the demolition of the existing single-storey cold room lean-to building on the southern side of the supermarket.
The proposals also include the construction of a new single-storey extension to be amalgamated with the existing supermarket unit, along with revisions to the current car park layout, lowering of ground levels in the southern section of the car park, external signage and associated site works.
However, in a recent detailed further information request, Kildare County Council raised a number of concerns regarding the scale, design and technical aspects of the development.
Planners noted that the site falls within the 'Core Regeneration Area 1: Main Street' zone under the Naas Local Area Plan 2021–2027, where high-quality urban design is a key requirement.
The applicant has now been asked to submit revised proposals demonstrating how the extension would deliver a higher-quality urban form, particularly given the “significant public investment” already made in the surrounding area.
The council has requested clarifications in terms of past advertisements erected for planning, new plans for the car park and for a parking assessment report to be done to examine the suitability of the plan’s reduced parking provision from 56 down to 39, revised drainage and sustainability proposals, additional information regarding a 'Living Green Wall' in the store, and a lighting report to ensure the development would not create light pollution in the area.
The council has also requested revised site layout plans detailing electric vehicle charging points, bicycle parking facilities, staff welfare facilities, pedestrian routes, disabled parking arrangements and vehicle swept path analyses for refuse trucks, delivery vehicles and emergency services.
Meanwhile, Kildare County Council’s Strategic Projects and Public Realm Section raised concerns that the proposed car park regrading works could impact nearby public infrastructure, including public paths and seating areas where substantial public investment has taken place.
Under planning regulations, the applicant has six months to respond to the further information request or the application will be deemed withdrawn.
