Clonsilla Village

Cllr Michael O'Donovan lodges Objection to a Proposal for
High-Rise, High Density Apartments in Clonsilla Village.


The Planning Officer
Fingal County Council
Blanchardstown
Dublin 15

6th October 2009



A chara,

I write in response to the additional information recently supplied in relation to the application for houses, apartments and retail units by LaVista developments at Clonsilla Link Road, Dublin 15.

I commend the fact that a row of houses has been “moved” to allow more space between the proposed development and Porters Gate Estate and to allow for the protection of a row of mature trees. I also welcome the reduction in the number of one-bedroom units.

Nevertheless, the basic reasons for my original objection are as relevant as ever:-

1. The design of the apartment blocks is poor. Even the “artists impression” submitted by the developers shows a very unpleasing view and one that is totally out of any sympathy with the village ambience we should be trying to protect.
2. The five story element is in breach of our own plan for Clonsilla Village, a plan which was warmly welcomed by local residents. For us to turn our back on local residents new would set a dreadful precedent.
3. The proposed apartment blocks are right beside two listed structures, St Mary’s Church and the Clonsilla Signal Box, the oldest intact signal box in the country.
4. All the adjacent housing is village style bungalows or two story houses. The apartment block would represent an extraordinary visual intrusion.
5. The density of 27 units to the acre is too high. Higher densities are often permitted near railway stations, but in this instance, other factors must be taken into account. The appropriate development of this site should involve 2,3,4, and even some 5 bedroom town houses up to 2 ½ storeys in height. A good density of 20 per acre (50 per hectare) could comfortably be achieved on this site.

I believe an entirely new application is warranted on this site.

Le meas
Cllr. Michael O’Donovan
Local Councillor, Clonsilla Area