Planning application raises concerns

A NORTHSIDE councillor has voiced concerns over a planning application for lands in the middle of the greenbelt between Portmarnock and Malahide.

The application by Bovale Developments proposes a residential development of 74 houses comprising five five-bed two-storey detached houses; 20 four-bed two-storey semi detached/terraced houses; and 49 three-bed two-storey detached/terraced houses.

The application also provides for Class 2 open space areas, to include an outdoor play area, tree removal where applicable and landscaping.

Highlighting his concerns, Cllr Peter Coyle (Lab), who represents the Howth Malahide ward, said the greenbelt is important for providing local residents with areas for recreation and allowing them to enjoy the rural space.

He believes the proposed development would interfere with the greenbelt’s natural heritage.

“The greenbelt area is a well defined space, so any development nearby could interfere with its physical appearance,

? Cllr Coyle told Northside People.

“The removal of trees mentioned would include trees that line the streets where the development would be built. It is those trees that add to the greenbelt’s natural beauty.

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Cllr Coyle believes the development could limit opportunities for the enhancement and protection of biodiversity within the greenbelt.

“The development should also be refused on the grounds that it would include a number of two-storey buildings,

? he stated.

Cllr Coyle, who is a member of the board of management at Malahide Community School, is also concerned with the location of the development as it will be within close range to the main entrance of the school.

He believes the development would add to potential traffic hazards, as the road leading to the school is fairly narrow.

“The entrance of the development will be directly opposite the entrance to the school,

? he added.

“This is likely to cause traffic mayhem and will likely increase road danger.

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Cllr Coyle also believes that an additional development in the area could potentially lead to flooding problems.

Northside People contacted Bovale Developments but the person dealing with the issue was unavailable for comment at the time of going to press.

A spokeswoman for Fingal County Council said:

“As a planning authority we are never in a position to make any comment on a planning application.

“The views and recommendations of Fingal County Council are recorded officially in the assessment of the application itself and the final decision made by the council’s planners.

“Submissions/observations to this application may be made on or before September 6.

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The spokeswoman added:

“We have an online planning application date calculator on our website which explains the timelines and gives the dates on which planning decisions are due.

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