Busy Portlaoise store set for big expansion
Mulhall's SuperValu on Lyster Square is set for a major expansion. Image: Laois Chamber Alliance
ONE of the busiest supermarkets in Portlaoise is set for a major expansion.
Mulhall’s SuperValu on Lyster Square has received planning permission for a major redesign, including a three-storey extension.
The planning application from site owner Kentian Ltd, which has been approved by Laois Co Council subject to 19 conditions, is for an extension to the family-run store and the adjoining pharmacy, all part of the Kellyville centre. A three-storey extension will be constructed to the rear of the Kellyville centre.
A ground floor extension to the rear of the supermarket and to the side and front of the pharmacy is included in the plans, with new first floor offices, canteen, stores, staircases and other associated internal alterations.
The application sought permission for the demolition of single-storey stores to the rear of SuperValu and an alteration to the rear carpark, with change of use of a house at 10 Kellyville Park, which faces onto James Fintan Lalor Avenue, from residential to office use.
The application states: ‘No.10 Kellyville Park is a semi-detached early 20th century private residential dwelling in ownership of the applicant. This application proposes a change of use of No.10 Kellyville Park from residential to office use. No.10 Kellyville Park is not a protected structure but is listed on the NIAH – National Inventory of Architectural Heritage.’
The application also seeks removal of the side boundary wall and hedge at the Kellyville Park house, to create new rear access to the business. There will also be ‘amalgamation and alterations’ of adjacent retail units with the supermarket unit, to form additional floor area and stores on Bull Lane.
Two submissions were received from the public, raising concerns about the impact of increased traffic levels on Kellyville Park.
Granting planning permission with 19 conditions attached, county council planners said: ‘The proposed development would not seriously injure the amenities of the area, would not be prejudicial to public health, would be acceptable in terms of traffic safety and would be in accordance with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.’
