The approval of “a highly irresponsible” aspect of a proposed development on Washington Street in Cork city is central to an appeal that has been lodged with An Bord Pleanála.

That has led to the plans for the redevelopment of the Kino arts and entertainment venue stalling for the rest of this year.

Cork City Council had granted conditional planning permission to demolish the existing Kino Cinema and for the construction of a new ground floor art house consisting of a cinema and performing arts space, to facilitate art house movies and small performing arts events.

A café and bar facility was also part of the proposal, as was a 17-bed student accommodation residence overhead the venue. Kino owner Philip O’Connor had also gotten the go-ahead for a rooftop garden terrace.

However, the same individual who had opposed the development at local level has now voiced his opposition to An Bord Pleanála.

The appellant’s property is separated from the development property by a narrow laneway.

“There are existing bedroom windows on the western elevation which will be directly overlooked by proposed windows on the eastern elevation of the proposed development,” his appeal states.

He adds that it will “result in gross infringement of my rights to privacy.” 

The appellant also believes that “the proposal for a four storey over ground development plus roof garden…will result in serious diminution of natural light.” 

The appellant has also raised concerns about anti-social behaviour.

He said: “I believe the concept of a roof-top open-air amenity garden will inevitably lead to a gross abuse of such a facility, for anti-social behaviour, creating noise and disturbance to adjoining residents, irrespective of what ‘conditions’ may be attached to the ‘management’ of same.

“This facility cannot be made available to resident students, especially during ‘Rag Week’ and other such student activities that take place during the year and ultimately will simply have to be locked up,” the submission continues.

“I believe the concept of such a facility in these circumstances and the approval of same to be highly irresponsible and should be reconsidered and removed entirely from the development.” The appellant said they do not object to the “general development proposals” but the aspects mentioned were “of serious concern”.

It will be early next year before An Bord Pleanála makes a ruling on whether the development can proceed.