elphin local area plan 2009 - 2015 - Roscommon County Council

Chapter 3: Settlement Policy and Development Strategy
expansion of the town in accordance with Map 8 – Land Use Zoning, at the end of this LAP. Other
considerations include appropriate scale; design use, the availability of existing infrastructure, services,
and environmental protection.
The development aims for Elphin are to:
Encourage a diverse range of employment opportunities
Facilitate future growth whilst ensuring that the natural environment is not compromised.
Promote a range of commercial/retail services in line with the Roscommon County Retail
Strategy
Encourage and promote tourism activities
Ensure a mix of residential accommodation is provided
Support and strengthen a vibrant town centre living environment
Vision for Elphin
For Elphin to grow as a key satellite village, catering for the needs of the existing and future population of
the town and its surrounds. Whilst having regard to sustainability, quality of life, social cohesion, and the
retention of the town’s character through the protection of its unique built and natural heritage.
Strategic Aims of the Elphin Local Area Plan
The Strategic Aims of the Elphin Local Area Plan are to:
1. Plan for and support the sustainable development of Elphin as a vibrant socially and economically
successful settlement, supporting and contributing to the economic development of the County.
2. Provide for the future wellbeing of the residents of Elphin by:
promoting the growth of economic activity and increasing employment opportunities,
protecting and improving the quality of the built and natural environment,
ensuring the provision of necessary infrastructure and community services, and
providing passive and active amenity and recreation spaces.
3. Ensure that everyone has the opportunity to obtain affordable housing, can enjoy safe and
accessible environments, and has access to; employment, education, training, community services,
recreational facilities, arts, and culture.
4. Ensure that the character of Elphin is maintained.
5. Protect, maintain and enhance the quality of the natural environment, protect the unique character
of Elphin’s landscapes, and conserve its open spaces and visual amenity.
6. Avoid urban sprawl on the edges of the town, and maintain a clear distinction between urban areas
and the rural hinterland.
7. Utilise the surrounding natural environment and natural resources, to the benefit of the town, in a
managed way that does not compromise these resources.
8. Acknowledge that the archaeological, natural and built heritage are important elements in the
long-term economic development of Elphin and that it is important to promote their conservation
and enhancement, public access and enjoyment.
Elphin Local Area Plan 2009-2015 Page 13