Residents concerned over centre plan

RESIDENTS in a Northside suburb gathered together last week to strongly oppose Dublin City Council’s plans to build a new community centre in their area. 

While the residents are delighted that the city council is planning to invest over €3 million into the much-needed amenity, they are adamant that the site on a green space at Thornville Drive, Kilbarrack, is totally inappropriate.

The residents feel the site for the three-storey centre is far too close to their houses and local schools, and will result in traffic chaos if given the green light.

Over 150 residents, who mainly live on Thornville Drive, Thornville Avenue and Greendale Avenue have signed a petition in protest against the proposed location.

Dublin City Council held two information evenings last Tuesday and Wednesday night (May 9 and 10) at the Kilbarrack United FC Clubhouse where they discussed the plans with concerned locals.

John Darcy, who lives on Thornville Drive, was among those who attended the meeting last Tuesday.

“The residents are not against a community centre being built in the area at all,” Mr Darcy told Northside People.

“They are delighted that Dublin City Council are investing in a facility for the area. 

“However, the proposed site is only 12 feet away from the front door of Gaelscoil Mide.

“There is also a senior citizens’ complex close by, another primary school and a playschool. 

“We feel that the site is totally unsuitable as it is too near the houses and there will be major traffic issues. 

“It will be particularly crazy during the school drop-offs.”

Asked about an alternative site for the community centre, Mr Darcy said the residents are “100 percent of the opinion that the old community centre on Greendale Road should be knocked down and rebuilt”.

Over 100 people attended the two meetings, and according to Mr Darcy, there was a very good response from the local community. 

“Dublin City Council representatives said they would keep in touch with us regarding the plans,” he added.

A spokesperson for Dublin City Council told Northside People: “Dublin City Council proposes to build a Neighbourhood Centre on the smaller middle green at Thornville Drive. “The capital provision for this project is €3,227,177.  

“This project is at an early stage and consultation process with the local community and local community groups is ongoing.”