German discounter loses appeal for Tallaght foodstore: An Bord Pleanála has upheld a decision to refuse German discounter Aldi planning permission to build a foodstore at Whitestown Way in Tallaght, Dublin 24.

Aldi had sought to build a 1,283 sq m (13,810 sq ft) foodstore on the site off the Killinarden Link Road.

In its first party appeal against refusal of planning permission by South Dublin County Council, Aldi said its store would have a positive impact and a complementary role with retail outlets in nearby local centres in Killinarden and Aylesbury.

It said discount foodstores have a different role and function to conventional supermarkets and it would not compete directly with existing or proposed fresh food outlets in Killinarden and Aylesbury. Aldi contended its presence would improve the range and mix of retail facilities in the Killinarden area.

However, An Bord Pleanála ruled that the development of a stand-alone discount foodstore at this location would have a negative impact on the future viability of these centres, and would be in contravention of the zoning objective for both local centres which is "to protect, provide for and improve local centre facilities".

Celebrity couple just can't get enough space at Abington

Conditions must be getting a little cramped at chez Byrne. Westlife singer Nicky Byrne and his wife, Georgina Ahern, the Taoiseach's daughter, are looking to extend their house in the millionaire's estate, Abington in Malahide, Co Dublin.

They are looking to build an extension to extend the existing garage to include an extra en suite bedroom, a dressingroom above and a gym to the rear.

A Parkway development, Abington has acquired celebrity status for its opulent finish and high-profile residents. Ronan Keating and his wife, Yvonne, live in a six-bed house on the estate.

Nearly half the 50 houses in Abington were sold to individuals who built their houses in consultation with the developers, Parkway Properties.