An Coimisiún Pleanála has rejected the proposal for the project in Tyrellsland in Portlaoise.
A housing development supplying 67 new homes in the midlands has been rejected.
An Coimisiún Pleanála has rejected the proposal for the project in Tyrellsland in Portlaoise for various reasons.
Issues regarding heritage and Portlaoise's ongoing development plan were highlighted by the body when reviewing the application.
A 25-acre site on Stradbally road was bought by Laois County council in 2021 for €1.4 million.
The council was hopeful that the land would be an ideal location for additional housing to be built.
Cathaoirleach of Portlaoise Municipal District, councillor Barry Walsh says Laois County council has invested a "significant" amount in this development:
The development was supposed to help meet the rising demand for housing in Portlaoise and the wider county.
Councillor Caroline Dwane Stanley described the rejection as a "blow" to the council as they attempt to be proactive in regards to housing needed in Laois.
She says the land in Tyrellsland is the only available land in Portlaoise that could be used for a project such as this.
Councillor Barry Walsh emphasised the importance of this project saying Portlaoise has a "rising population" and additional housing is needed.
Portlaoise County Council will now have a meeting to discuss future steps to get the project back on track.
Funded by the Local Democracy Scheme.
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