Planning updates March 2025

Lidl, Ennis

MKO is thrilled to announce that we have secured planning permission for a new Lidl store in Ennis. Co. Clare. The permission includes a new Lidl supermarket, two retail units and 14 apartments, as well as parking and play facilities, at the junction of Clare Road (R458) and Toberteascain Road. This milestone achievement is a testament to our team’s dedication and expertise in navigating complex planning regulations. Clare County Council approved the scheme in early 2023 and An Bord Pleanála granted final approval in March 2025. The new scheme will provide employment and valuable commercial, residential and leisure amenities to the Ennis area.

Beaumont Endoscopy Unit

MKO is happy to share that along with a talented design team, we have obtained planning permission for a new Endoscopy Unit at Beaumont Hospital, Dublin. Dublin City Council granted this development in February 2025, providing a much-needed capacity increase for the health sector and Dublin.

This project includes constructing a modern, three-storey building, with a dedicated endoscopy unit, covering a gross floor area of 4,132 sq.m. The facility includes 18 patient rooms, seven treatment rooms, two recovery rooms, office and staff facilities, a decontamination unit, stairs and lift core, storage, and overhead plant rooms. Additionally, the scheme will feature a green roof, solar panels and a 60-bay bike store, enhancing its environmental sustainability.

We are proud to have played a central role in this project, showcasing our dedication to improving healthcare infrastructure across Ireland.

Planning news

More than half of the electricity need provided by renewable energy in February

According to Ireland’s transmission system operator EirGrid, 54.5% of electricity came from renewable energy sources in February, including wind, solar and hydropower. Wind power alone provided more than 48% of the electricity needed in Ireland with a new peak wind power record set on the 13^th of February. Total wind energy generation amounted to 1,411 GWh over the month. Currently, the power system can operate with up to 75% renewable energy. EirGrid is looking to increase this limit.