UPDATE: Plans to construct new apartment blocks on Newcastle Road have been officially rejected by An Bord Pleanála, marking the second unsuccessful attempt by Shawder Ltd to redevelop the site. This decision, announced today, comes after the developers scaled back their proposal from 18 to 15 apartments in an effort to meet local regulations.

The regulatory body cited concerns over design quality, labeling the revised plans as “substandard” and indicating that they failed to comply with essential sunlight regulations. The rejection of such housing initiatives raises critical questions about the future of residential development in the area, particularly amidst ongoing housing shortages.

Located at 99 Upper Newcastle Road, the site has been the subject of contention as local residents advocate for better living conditions and more thoughtful urban planning. The persistent rejection of these proposals underscores the challenges developers face in navigating strict planning environments while addressing community needs.

Why This Matters: The decision is particularly urgent given the increasing demand for housing in the region. As populations grow and housing shortages deepen, the rejection of new developments can exacerbate the crisis, leaving many without adequate housing options.

Looking ahead, it remains to be seen whether Shawder Ltd will make another attempt to modify their plans or if they will pursue alternative development projects. Local stakeholders and residents are closely monitoring the situation, eager for a resolution that meets both community standards and housing demands.

Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops. The implications of this decision resonate not only in Newcastle but across similar urban areas grappling with housing challenges.

URGENT UPDATE: Authorities are calling for immediate intervention to protect the historic “leaning” tower of Kilmacduagh, located in Tierneevin, South Galway. Local Senator PJ Murphy has brought the alarming situation to the attention of the Seanad, highlighting a noticeable increase in the tower’s lean over the past two decades.

Documents reveal that the lean was first documented over 250 years ago, but experts now warn that the situation has intensified significantly. Archaeologists and local historians have observed a troubling trend, with the tower’s structural integrity deteriorating at an alarming rate, raising concerns about its future.

Senator Murphy has appealed directly to the Office of Public Works (OPW) to act swiftly, requesting a thorough assessment of the site. “This is not just a historical monument; it’s a part of our cultural heritage that needs immediate protection,” Murphy stated.

The Kilmacduagh tower, known for its unique architectural features, attracts numerous visitors each year. Local residents are anxious about the implications of its potential collapse, which would not only erase a significant piece of history but also impact tourism and community pride.

As the situation develops, local authorities are urged to respond promptly to prevent further deterioration. The community is rallying around this cause, emphasizing the need for urgent action to save this iconic landmark.

Stay tuned for further updates on this critical issue. The future of Kilmacduagh’s tower hangs in the balance, and immediate intervention is essential.

BREAKING: A new e-scooter capable of reaching speeds up to 100 mph (160 km/h) has just been unveiled by UK company Bo. This development raises urgent questions about the future of e-scooter regulations in Ireland.

The recently launched ‘Turbo’ e-scooter is being touted as a game-changer in personal electric transportation. While e-scooters are currently legal on Irish roads, they are restricted to a maximum speed of 20 km/h. The Turbo, described as a “monster” by CEO Oscar Morgan, aims to elevate e-scooters into mainstream automotive culture.

However, despite its groundbreaking design, the Turbo will not be available in Ireland anytime soon due to its lack of street legality. Even if regulations were to change, the high price tag of $29,500 (€25,310) could deter many potential buyers. Interested customers must also demonstrate prior riding experience through an online portal on the Turbo’s official website.

Crafted from aerospace-grade aluminum, the Turbo boasts a powerful 1800Wh battery capable of charging 1,500 iPhones at once. It offers an impressive range of 150 miles (240 km) on a single charge, far exceeding typical e-scooter capabilities.

The Turbo has been tested by professional racer Tre Whyte, who reached speeds of 85 mph (136 km/h) during initial runs. Bo’s Chief Technology Officer, Harry Willis, confirmed that the company is working to increase the Turbo’s performance even further, aiming for triple-digit speeds.

“Having successfully completed the shakedown process on race tracks here in the UK, we are now initiating a process to increase the output and speed from the vehicle until we achieve our target,” Willis stated.

The unveiling of the Turbo comes amid growing scrutiny over e-scooter regulations in Ireland. Local authorities are faced with the challenge of balancing the innovative potential of these vehicles with public safety concerns. As e-scooters gain popularity, the demand for regulatory clarity becomes increasingly urgent.

What happens next? With the Turbo making waves in the tech community, all eyes will be on Irish lawmakers to see if they will adapt current laws to accommodate this new wave of transportation technology.

Stay tuned for updates as this story develops. The Turbo may just be the catalyst for a significant shift in how we view e-scooters on the roads.

UPDATE: In a striking announcement, Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane has expressed skepticism about party leader Mary Lou McDonald entering the presidential race. This statement comes shortly after an internal party discussion regarding potential candidates.

During the consultation, McDonald notably did not eliminate the possibility of her candidacy, but Kerrane’s comments suggest a different outlook. “I don’t see Mary Lou McDonald trying to leave the Dáil,” Kerrane stated, indicating a belief that the party leader will remain focused on her current role rather than pursuing the presidency.

This development raises questions about the future leadership of Sinn Féin. Alongside McDonald, other prominent figures such as Michelle O’Neill, the North’s First Minister, and MP John Finucane have emerged as potential contenders for the presidential nomination. The party is experiencing a significant moment, as internal dynamics shift and the political landscape evolves.

The implications of Kerrane’s comments are substantial. As the party navigates its future, the focus will increasingly be on who will lead Sinn Féin in the coming years. The presidential race is becoming a hot topic, and McDonald’s decision to remain non-committal adds layers of intrigue to the unfolding narrative.

With political tensions rising and the next election cycle approaching, all eyes are on Sinn Féin and its leadership decisions. The party’s strategy will have a profound impact on its direction as well as on national politics.

As this story develops, political analysts and supporters alike will be watching closely for any further announcements from McDonald and other party leaders. Will Kerrane’s assessment hold true, or will McDonald surprise everyone with a bid for the presidency? Keep an eye on the latest updates as this situation unfolds.