LOCAL residents in Finglas have confirmed they plan to appeal the granting of planning permission for the Finglas Primary Care Centre to An Bord Pleanála.
Dublin City Council granted permission for the centre on land bordered by Mellowes Road, Mellowes Avenue and Kildonan Road despite 25 objections from locals in the area.
The residents, many of whom are members of the Mellowes Area Action Group (MAAG), say they’re fully behind the centre but want it located on a
“central, fit-for-purpose
? site.
Many of objections raised concerns over parking, road safety and access issues.
“Traffic generation will be an issue as too much traffic will be brought to the area with staff and patients who will attend the proposed clinic,
? one objector wrote.
Many of those objecting also complained that the new centre would result in the loss of a popular recreation area for children.
“This area has been a play area for local children for as long as I can remember,
? one 52-year-old objector pointed out.
Some residents said traffic was already an issue in the area, partially due to the number of events held at the local West Finglas Tenants and Residents Association (WFTRA) centre that’s close to the proposed centre.
Local councillor, Ciaran Perry (Ind), also submitted a detailed objection.
“While I fully support the proposal for a Primary Care Centre in Finglas as the area is disadvantaged in terms of such facilities, the current location is not suitable and there are preferable alternative sites,
? he wrote.
Cllr Perry said he believed there was a lack of consultation with the local community on the plans and argued that the decision had been effectively made before any discussions took place.
He also cited the loss of a recreational green space in the area as one of his primary concerns.
“This green area is landscaped and well maintained and has been used by the local community for over 40 years,
? he said.
“An area such as Finglas, which has been classified as a disadvantaged in terms of recreational facilities, can ill afford to lose such a significant amenity as their local green area.
?
Dublin City Council granted the permission subject to nine conditions, but MAAG representatives say they don’t address all of their concerns.
The centre will be 2,700 sq mts in size and will be home to three Primary Care Teams providing a range of health services.
It will also house an adult mental health out-patient service and a base for the Finglas Community Mental Health Team. Accommodation for 10 GP clinics will also be included at the facility.
Local TD John Lyons (Lab), said he welcomed the decision to grant permission as it would benefit the entire community.
“I supported a primary health centre based in the community from the beginning as I believe it will make a huge difference to people’s health all across Finglas,
? he said.
“The decision brings a fantastic health facility for all Finglas residents a step closer and I hope it can progress to construction as soon as possible.
?