17 September 1997
By Tom Kelly
RTÉ radio personality Marian Finucane has a personal interest in a planning row which has blown up in Achill.
Her partner, John Clarke, was granted planning permission for 18 holiday houses at Gob Na hAirde in Curraune. But a number of appeals have been lodged to An Bord Pleanala against the decision of Mayo County Council to give the go-ahead to the scheme.
The objectors, which include some local residents, claim the proposal was contrary to proper planning for the area. They believe the project will spoil Curraune as an unspoiled, safe and increasingly attractive location for tourists.
Complaints have also been raised in respect of traffic, water, sewerage and security.
But Mr. Clarke, a businessman and farmer based in Kildare, has also strong support within the Curraune community for his proposal.
Former Government Minister Denis Gallagher has already spoken out in favour of the holiday home complex. He said it would have economic and social benefits for the scenic village.
