Location
The settlement of Newtown is located approximately 3 kilometres north-east of Kilmacthomas, with easy access, less than 1 kilometre away, onto the main N25 to Waterford. (Download Newtown (adobe .pdf, 306 kbs)  Map Here) and also download the pages relating to Zoning Objectives (word .doc, 183 kbs) . The Zoning Objectives and Landuse Zoning Matrix need to be used when looking at the individual settlement zonings.

Characteristics
Land in this area is situated above a Regionally Important Fissure Flow Aquifer, and varies between a high to moderate vulnerability to groundwater pollution.  Landfall is in a south, south-easterly direction, towards the N25. Newtown is also characterised by attractive stone walls and outbuildings, and mature Sycamore, Ash and Oak trees.  The retention, enhancement and incorporation of these characteristics, should be incorporated into any design proposal for the area.

Two recorded monuments, are listed at either end of the zoned area, one at the crossroads (WA01077), and one on the opposite side of the road adjacent to the Catholic Church (WA01041).

Facilities and Services
Community facilities in Newtown include a Church and Primary School.  A planning permission was granted for a temporary prefabricated classroom for a limited period of 7 year basis.  The Newtown GAA pitch is located outside of the settlement area, and is approximately 2km to the north of Newtown Cross. Additional services are provided in the form of two pubs, a local shop and a vehicle repair garage.  These are all located to either side of the school.

Infrastructure
Newtown has no public sewage disposal system or public water supply.  In addition, there are no nearby rivers, streams or discharge points. Any constraint to development is associated with the infrastructural deficit as outlined above and development proposals will need to cater for this in any applications for permission along with satisfying the Planning Authority as to the standards for new development at Section 9.2.

These matters will have to be discussed and approved with the Sanitary Services Section of Waterford County Council, prior to any development proposal being submitted for Planning Permission.
 
Development Strategy
A strategic road access point shall be provided and retained for through zoned lands to serve zoned backlands. Development proposals for these types of zoned lands (eg.  The field adjacent and to the rear of the old hand pump), should incorporate this consideration into any future development proposals. The development strategy for Newtown is as indicated on the Newtown Land Use Zoning Map. The policies and objectives of the County's Settlement Strategy, as outlined in Chapter 3 of the Development Plan, will also be applicable. Any development proposed on the zoned land, south of the local road, shall include proposals for screening of the development from the N25.