Wicklow, Sunderland Planning Authorities Refuse Apartment, Student Housing Proposals Over Environmental, Noise Concerns

Wicklow County Council rejected a proposal to convert the former Farrier’s Inn pub and café in Kilcashel, Avoca, into six apartments, despite the developer's argument that the mostly internal alterations would have minimal visual impact and align with local development policies. Meanwhile, Sunderland City Council refused plans to transform the upper floors of 15 Waterloo Place into student accommodation due to concerns about noise and odours from nearby late-night venues, particularly the Independent music venue. The council and environmental health assessments concluded that proposed noise mitigation measures were insufficient to ensure acceptable living conditions for future residents, raising fears that noise complaints could threaten the viability of existing businesses. Multiple objections from local residents and organizations, including the Music Venue Trust, emphasized the potential negative impact on the area's character and the failure to meet the 'agent of change' principle, which requires developers to mitigate impacts of existing businesses on new residents. Previous attempts to convert 15 Waterloo Place into residential units were also blocked or dismissed on similar grounds. These cases highlight challenges in balancing residential development with preserving community amenities and local business viability.