A controversial proposal to rezone lands on the outskirts of Killarney, Co Kerry, has been passed by the town council.
However, planners said they would impose height restrictions on any buildings developed on the site at Cleeney and would safeguard the boundary of the St Columbanus home for the elderly.
There is concern at development in Killarney, with councillors claiming it is getting "like New York" and going "up, up and up". Prime views of the mountains surrounding the town are already blocked by large buildings, local politicians have complained.
The rezoning this week of the Cleeney site from residential to mixed use will allow for a wide range of commercial development, including offices, retail outlets, a restaurant, a car park and a pub.
Ms Fiona Galvin, executive planner, said the buildings on the three-acre site will not exceed four storeys. Two councillors opposed to the rezoning complained at a meeting this week of having been approached about their motives in opposing the rezoning.
Cllr Pat F. O'Connor (FF) claimed "an individual", as well as a member of the media, had asked him if he had anything personal against the developers. He was taken aback at the questions.
Cllr Sheila Dickson (FF) said she, too, had been approached by several individuals wanting to know if she had "something personal" against the developers.