Local Sinn Fein TD Paul Donnelly says he warmly welcomes the rejection of the “Build to rent” Strategic Housing Development at the old Clonsilla School site adjacent to the Royal Canal by An Bord Pleanála.
Developer Osh Ventures Ltd had applied for permission for the SHD development on Porterstown Road, Kellystown, which was to consist of 198 apartment units in 8 blocks.
Almost 200 submissions were lodged by residents about the project, with the majority opposed to the apartments, most of which would be rented out on the private market.
An Bord Pleanala rejected the plans on points which focussed on Heritage and the Environment.
Commenting following the decision, Deputy Donnelly said:
“I am relieved and happy that this development has been rejected so comprehensively by An Bord Pleanala.
“This is the second major win for the Clonsilla community following the removal by Irish Rail of a major bridge across the Royal Canal close to this development as part of the Dart + project.
“This development would have been a massive blow to the community if it had got the go ahead and I believe that the developers should now withdraw their attempts to build these massive apartment blocks adjacent two very important protected structures, the Old Clonsilla National School and the Royal Canal.
“The community and all political parties have agreed and accept there will be a major development of apartments, houses, schools and shops on the far side of the Royal Canal in Kellystown. That Local Area Plan was unanimously agreed recently. I believe that it will provide a massive boost to the of home building programme with over a 1,000 new houses and apartments and would be a more appropriate place to build apartments.
“I am calling on Fingal County Council to now look to purchase this site and to try to protect the trees, flora and fauna, and develop a recreational/ café/restaurant facility for the community and the thousands who will be passing by when the Royal Canal Greenway is built.