The proposed development consists of:

• Preservation works to the former Spicers Bakery (Protected Structure RPS no. 90881)
• Change of use and extension of the existing office building into café/retail use with a stepped plaza, covered band stand and access paths. A single storey glazed extension is proposed to be added.
• Redevelopment of the existing Ramparts carpark area access points, with 64 car parking spaces and a bike stand which can accommodate 9 no. bikes.
• Demolition of the 4 terraced dwellings fronting the Kentstown road to provide a public plaza,
• The redesign of Andy Brennan Park to provide a public plaza, with stepped integrated seating areas, active urban park and bike stands to accommodate 9 no. bikes.
• Upgrade of the underpass of Somerville Bridge (Protected Structure RPS no. 90878) and to provide mobility upgrades to the existing steps to enhance links to Ramparts off the Athlumney Road.

The application site of circa 1.7 ha is located in Navan at Newbridge Athlumney on the R153 Navan to Kentstown Road south east of the confluence of the River Boyne and Blackwater. The area is circa 300m from the town centre and marks the start/end of the Ramparts walk along the River Boyne/Boyne Navigation.

A Natura Impact Statement has been prepared in respect of the proposed development.

Meath County Council was successful in obtaining URDF funding in 2018 for the Navan Land Activation project which provided funding for the purchase of the former Spicers Bakery site and 4 no. derelict terraced dwellings which front onto the R153 Kentstown Road at Andy Brennan Park. An integrated approach to the redevelopment of the Council’s lands at this location was considered to be the best method of ensuring a comprehensive scheme could be delivered. The Council’s key objectives were to provide amenity and recreational facilities to serve Navan’s growing population.

In order to ensure a plan led approach to redevelopment, Paul Hogarth and Company Landscape Architects were commissioned to prepare an ‘Overall Concept Master Plan’. The masterplan explored the potential of Meath County Council’s entire land holding and also examine the potential of linkages from the Council lands to the existing pathway network in the Ramparts area. This application is seeking planning permission for a first phase of development.  

The application will complement the existing provision of recreational facilities in Navan. It will provide a focal point at the end of the Ramparts Walk and will stimulate the regeneration of this area. The proposal includes two plazas and a covered band stand, given that the headquarters of Navan Silver Band is adjacent to the site. The reimagined Andy Brennan Park will provide opportunities of active recreation, more passive recreational activity can be accommodated at the Ramparts/Spicers side of the development. The application is supported by a detailed ‘Conservation Management Plan’ and a ‘Design Statement' which sets out the landscaping strategy and rationale for same. This is a critical component of the scheme as one of the Council’s key objectives is to increase passive surveillance of both the Ramparts area and Andy Brennan Park.

The proposed development will remove dereliction and will strengthen and develop the area’s existing riverfront heritage assets, environmental resources and social amenities into a dynamic range of vibrant and attractive parkland facilities, ecological protected areas and unique attractions for residents and visitors.

All Plans and Particulars of the proposed development will be available for inspection free of charge during public opening hours within the period 22nd December 2022 and 13th February 2023, inclusive, at the following locations:

• An Bord Pleanála, 64 Marlborough Street, Dublin 1
• Meath County Council, Buvinda House, Dublin Rd, Navan, Co Meath
• Online at: https://www.meath.ie/consultations/proposed-development-at-the-former-spicers-bakery-ramparts-car-park-and-andy-brennan-park

Submissions and observations are invited relating to –

1. The implications of the proposed development for the proper planning and sustainable development of the area concerned,
2. The likely effects on the environment of the proposed development, and
3. The likely significant effects of the proposed development on a European site, if carried out.

Submissions or observations can only be made in writing to An Bord Pleanála, 64 Marlborough Street, Dublin 1, not later than 5.30pm on 13th February 2023.

All submissions must be labelled with the following project name: Meath County Council Spicer’s Bakery/Andy Brennan Project, Athlumney, Navan, Co. Meath.