THE company that has purchased land surrounding St Paul’s College, Raheny, said it is committed to
“maintaining dialogue
? with the local community following concerns regarding the sale.
New Generation Homes confirmed to Northside People that it has purchased lands at the college from the Vincentian Order.
In a statement, the company said it intends to build private homes and improve sports and community facilities on the site, and will shortly begin the planning process in this regard.
“We have already held meetings with some local community groups, coordinated by our advisors WK Nowlan Property, and will be engaging with others in the near future,
? a spokesman for the company said.
“In particular, we have met with Clontarf GAA Club to reassure them about their continued use of the playing facilities at St Paul’s.
“We have confirmed to Clontarf GAA Club that they will continue to be able to use the playing facilities at the school uninterrupted until we secure planning permission, a process that will take some time.
“We will ensure minimal disruption of their use of the facilities during the construction phase that will follow.
?
The Vincentian Order has set aside over
?¬7 million from the proceeds of the sale of the land for the provision of new school facilities including a new all-weather pitch, a community sports hall and a trust fund providing for future school needs.
“When construction is complete the GAA club and other local groups will have access to the new 3G all-weather full championship size pitch, as well as the multipurpose sports hall that will be built next to the school,
? the spokesman added.
“New Generation Homes is committed to maintaining dialogue with the local community, including Clontarf GAA, to ensure that the outcome of this development will be of benefit to and will further enhance the local community and surrounding area.
?
Local Fianna Fáil councillors Deirdre Heney and Sean Haughey were among those who expressed concern following the land sale announcement.
Cllr Heney, who represents the Clontarf Local Electoral Area (LEA), said:
“We need a guarantee that the needs of St Paul’s School and the local sports clubs will continue to be accommodated.
“I welcome the commitment from the Vincentians that
?¬7 million from the profits of the sale will be invested in the school and its grounds.
“The needs of the students and the sports clubs that currently make great use of the pitches must be a top priority in this reinvestment.
?
Cllr Haughey, who also represents the Clontarf LEA, said:
“I have sought an urgent meeting with the developer and will impress on him the need for continuity and security for local sporting groups; the demand that as much public open space as possible be retained; the desire that any new housing will not impact unduly on existing householders; and that there should be comprehensive consultation with all local groups and stakeholders.
?