Combined Whitehall Residents Association

On the 17th of September 2009 An Bord Pleanála decided to refuse the appeal of Barina Construction Limited for its plan to develop a mixed use development of 460 dwellings, creche, retail/commercial and associated works at Swords Road, Whitehall, Dublin 9. This is a great result for the residents of the area and the Combined Whitehall Residents Associations which have worked tirelessly for almost two years.

The order cited three grounds for refusal. These included the belief that: the scale, design, height and mix of the appartments was excessive for the area, the open space provision in terms of its form, function and layout failed to accord with the zoning for the area and the Board were not satisfied that the proposed development would not impact negatively on the Dublin Port Tunnel.

The full inspector’s report and the Board direction on the appeal will be available shortly at www.pleanala.ie

Resident Associations have received word from An Bord Pleanála that a submission by the National Roads Authority (NRA) in relation to the mixed use development on the Swords Road, expresses concern about the effect the development may have on The Dublin Port Tunnel.  Copies of the NRA letter and submissions can be viewed here.

The letter to An Bord Pleanala states ” The Authority is greatly concerned at the potential for the proposed development the subject of the appeal to reduce the structural integrity, safety and durability of The Dublin Port Tunnel, which forms part of the national roads motorway network.  The Authority’s observations on the original planning application are enclosed as NRA Appendix A – Port Tunnel Safety.  Our observations on the Additonal Information are enclosed as NRA-Appendix B – Port Tunnel”

Letter from An Bord Pleanala plus attachments regarding NRA position Barina – Port Tunnel-Safety