New public park in Newcastle could take 12-24 months to develop

Cairn Homes has revealed that the construction of a new public park, which is included in its plans for a 380-residential unit development in Newcastle, south Dublin, will take between 12 and 24 months.

The news comes after local councillor Francis Timmons asked the developer for an update on the project.

”Cairn Homes have given me the permitted phasing plan for the development,” says Timmons.

“They Inform me that unfortunately in the current climate, it is very difficult to predict when the park will be delivered but it’s anticipated within the next 12-24 months.

“The park and sports pitches are in accordance with the Newcastle Local Area Plan.

“The amenities include a mixed-use games area as well as formal and informal playgrounds for children of various ages.

“This has been designed in consultation with SDCC. Any changes can’t happen without agreement from SDCC and/or amendment to Cairn Homes planning permission from the planning department.”

The development was given the go-ahead by An Bord Pleanala early last year despite the inspector’s report suggesting that planning permission be declined.

The project was filed under the Strategic Housing Development legislation which permits developers to skip the process of filing their large-scale application with a local authority and instead submit their plans directly to ABP.

The development will consist of 255 houses, 48 duplexes, 77 apartments, a creche and other amenities.

In February, Sinn Fein TD for the area Eoin Ó Broin said that the failure to develop a public park in Newcastle “is letting local residents down.”

“A number of residents from the Newcastle area had contacted my office about the lack of a public park in the area, which is a fast-growing part of Dublin Mid-West,” he said.

“This had been a long running saga with parks promised as part of Celtic Tiger era developments falling foul of the 2008 crash.

“On foot of a questions I put into South Dublin County Council (SDCC), they confirmed to me that there are several parks proposed for delivery as part of the Local Area Plan for Newcastle.

“Permission for one of these parks has already been partially granted.”

Deputy Ó Broin says that a quick delivery of the parks should be a priority

“Unfortunately, local people cannot walk their dogs or bring their children to play in a Local Area Plan.

“Local people need delivery.

“Covid-19 had brough home the harsh reality of such a large community without even a basic public park.

“I am urging both private developers and the council to do everything in their power to fast track the development of much needed green space being provided for the residents of Dublin Mid-West.”