Munster Rugby Lose Battle With Local Residents

Munster Rugby have suffered a rare defeat, but not on the rugby pitch.

An Bord Pleanála has ruled in favour of Mayorstone Coolraine Residents’ Association, in a row over proposals to erect two large advertising billboards on the wall Thomond Park’s south terrace.

The residents have successfully appealed a decision of Limerick City and County Council to grant the owners of Thomond Park planning permission for the illuminated commercial hoardings.

The association, which represents 100 people living near the Limerick ground, said the proposed billboards did not accord with the requirements of the Limerick City Development Plan, given that the site is in a residential area.

“The introduction of commercial advertising to the area will undermine the quality of the lives of the residents, the desirability and value of homes, and will be of no benefit to sport, visitors, or the city,” the association said.

The local residents said the signage was located above a bus stop and would be a distraction to motorists. They said the council also had similar concerns. They also said that the proposed billboards would also be intrusive and would attract antisocial behaviour.

Munster Rugby had claimed that the proposed signage wouldn’t bring in huge amounts of revenue, but would have helped to fund its community programme.

[Irish Examiner]