boyle local area plan 2012 - 2018 - Roscommon County Council

PART I: INTRODUCTION & CONTEXT Chapter 2: Historic Context, Settlement Policy & Vision
Local commerce in Boyle has sought to strengthen in
recent years with the continued development of tourism
and the location, in and around the town, of commercial
enterprises. It is imperative that every effort is made to
encourage existing industries and other commercial and
economic activities to expand, and to attract new
industries into the town.
The (NSS) states that towns with a population of 1500-
5000, such as Boyle, present opportunities for
development and expansion through effective promotion
and marketing in association with larger towns, hubs and
gateways. Such towns play important economic and
service functions along with more remote rural areas.
Accessibility and effective local planning frameworks
and initiatives to release capacity in terms of land and
services for sustainable growth are critical factors in
activating the potential of such centres in their important
county roles. Capitalising on the location and attractions
of such centres on or near important transport corridors,
will become an important part of diversifying these
towns as their reliance on traditional economic activities
lessens (NSS, 2002).
Boyle’s natural and man-made environment is its
greatest asset and these assets i.e. water quality,
biodiversity, and the town’s architectural and
archaeological heritage should be nurtured and
protected. These will also be enhanced where possible
and appropriate. The design and location of new
development will need to be carefully considered in
order to make efficient use of infrastructure and to be of
a sufficiently high standard as to enhance the physical
environment.
Boyle’s identity is largely defined by its rich built
heritage and relationship to the Boyle River and Lough
Key Forest & Activity Park at Rockingham. RCC will
promote linkages to Boyle Harbour, Lough Key and the
greater Shannon-Erne Waterway; the protection of the
historic core of the town; and the development of new
neighbourhoods with easy access to the town core.
A Preferred Development Strategy map (see Figure 4
& 4(B) pages 18 & 19) has been prepared to provide a
broad visual representation of the preferred
development strategy for Boyle, which focuses
primarily on consolidating the town centre by
permitting appropriate in-fill development, and the
expansion of the town in accordance with appended
Maps 14a and 14b – Land Use Zoning.
These are seven key development areas identified in the
Boyle LAP area including; town centre regeneration,
leisure tourism, new residential development, business
enterprise park/light industry and industrial uses. The
Preferred Development Strategy Map is illustrated
below on two figures (Figure 4 & 4(B)) which identify
the seven key development areas, the commercial
centre of the town, the proposed general direction of
development, movement linkages and public transport.
A Constraints Map and an Opportunities Map have also
been produced in conjunction with the Preferred
Development Strategy Map and the Land Use Zoning
Map, in order to identify potential opportunities and
constraints in the area. See appended Maps 11, 12, 14a,
and 14b.
Town Core Regeneration
One of the strategic objectives of this LAP is the
development of a strong and vibrant town centre which
meets the retail and service needs of the hinterland, in
addition to offering a pleasant and attractive
environment for: shopping, business, recreation and
living. Boyle Town Centre has a historic charm,
character and sense of place which needs to be
protected and sensitively developed in order to harness
economic potential. The proposed N61 Boyle Town
By-pass will remove a significant amount of traffic
from the Town Centre making it a more attractive place
to shop, conduct business, reside, recreate and visit.
This Key Development Area, as illustrated on Figure
4(B) has been identified to highlight the need for
significant regeneration in the town core. Attempting to
address the decline of the environment and
infrastructure in this area will revitalise Boyle Town
Centre by bringing more life and opportunities for
commercial development into the area.
The close proximity of Boyle Railway Station to the
town core is a major strength, and its importance should
not be underestimated. Boyle has the potential to
become a vibrant riverside town and harbour with: easy
access by private and public transport to the town,
pedestrian walkways, green spaces, riverside features,
ample car parking, a quality and diversified retail
offering, and open space. For this to become a reality it
is essential that a healthy and attractive local
environment is created within the town and immediate
surrounding area, fostering a vibrant town centre; with
an appropriate mix of retail and commercial uses.
Appealing frontages are encouraged within the town
core.
Riverside Area
The Boyle River flows through the heart of Boyle and
is a major asset for the town, with potential for
increased use of the river and the riverside for
recreation and business. Opportunities exist to develop
its potential, enhance the quality of the riverside
environment, and to bring the riverside to life through
Boyle Local Area Plan 2012-2018 Page 13