NTA withdraws Lidl objection

THE National Transport Authority (NTA) has withdrawn its controversial objection to the new Ballymun Lidl development.

The transport body had asked Dublin City Council to refuse planning permission, arguing that the long-awaited development could interfere with plans for the Metro North, which is expected to run up Ballymun Main Street.

Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) and the NTA had been in the process of finalising Metro alignments and station location before the application was lodged and transport officials were concerned the Lidl development could limit options.

However, last week in a surprise twist, the NTA formally withdrew its objection in a letter to planners for the development, and explained why it had been concerned.

“The NTA can confirm that the preliminary work on the new Metro North has evolved in the period since the making of our observation,” the letter reads.

“At that time, one of the likely locations for a metro station was to the front of the site of the proposed development.

“This would have necessitated works involving physical intrusion into the subject site, potentially impacting on the design of the proposed development.

“Further analysis undertaken in the interim has identified a site for a station to the south of the subject site, thereby removing any direct interaction between Metro North and the proposed development.”

The letter went on to say that the NTA now had no objection to the granting of permission for the development.

Ballymun Sinn Féin Councillor and local resident Noeleen Reilly said locals are breathing a sigh of relief after hearing news that the objection was withdrawn.

“I am pleased that common sense has prevailed in the NTA,” she said.

“Their objection to the Lidl development came as quite a shock to the community.

A lot of people were very angry. We have waited decades for additional shops in Ballymun and their objection was not helpful.”

The Lidl development on the site bounded by Balbutcher Lane, Balcurris Road and Ballymun Main Street includes a retail store and over 60 units that can provide beds for more than 360 students.

Work on the 17km Metro North rail link between Dublin Airport and the city centre is planned to begin in 2021, with a completion date predicted for 2027.

Cllr Reilly said the NTA objection had raised further concerns for the future development along Ballymun road.

“The Metro North is a long time away and we cannot delay the completion of the Regeneration until that happens,” she added.

“We have big plans coming from the Local Area Plan particularly for the land heading towards the M50.

“We have earmarked this for Ballymun Kickhams. A feasibility study will soon be carried out and I hope the NTA get involved in this in a positive manner.

“To have the club in the heart of Ballymun would be a huge benefit to the community. I fully support it – it needs to happen.”