THE Limerick Regeneration Agency is to get government funding of €28 million this year, it has emerged.
Half of the funding will be spent on providing social housing in Limerick City along with counties Limerick and Clare for families being relocated from large urban areas such as Moyross, Southill, St Mary’s Park and Ballinacurra Weston.
Limerick City Council will get e7m, Limerick County Council e5m and Clare County Council e2m. However, it is envisaged the regeneration plan to demolish 4,800 houses in Limerick’s crime blackspots will need a total state investment of more than e1.6 billion over the next eight to 10 years along with private sector investment of e1.4bn.
Over 100 houses have already been demolished in some of the estates designated for regeneration.
Clare County Council, meanwhile, will now have to embark on a social housing programme for families who will be moved across the boundary of Limerick city.
However, public representatives in the county have voiced strong opposition to families being moved from trouble spots into Clare.
Meanwhile, the Regeneration Agency said it is confident the necessary funding will be forthcoming to enable the huge programme to be undertaken.
As there will be planning issues to be dealt with over the coming 12 months, the agency said it will not be requiring huge funding for the next year or so.
Irish Examiner
www.buckplanning.ie
Friday, 27 February 2009
Plans for Cork science park to go on public display
OUTLINE plans for a Silicon Valley-style innovation and research campus on the outskirts of Cork city will go on display next week.
People have been invited to comment on and help shape the development of the country’s first science park which has the potential to create up to 6,000 jobs.
The Cork Science and Innovation Park, which analysts say will contribute about e450 million annually to the local economy, will be built on a 150-acre site at Curraheen.
County manager Martin Riordan has described it as a "defining project for Cork".
However, before work can start, there must be a variation to the Carrigaline electoral area plan, which governs the site, and a subsequent variation to the County Development Plan 2009 which was adopted recently.
The council must also assess the environmental impact of the proposed park.
The council will begin a four-week consultation process next week, with information available from council planning offices, libraries, and from the planning section of www.corkcoco.ie
An information session will also take place from 4pm to 8pm next Tuesday, March 3 in the foyer of County Hall where planning staff will be available to brief people.
The council will prepare a draft amendment to the local area plan and the county development plan.
Submissions can be made in writing to the planning policy unit in County Hall or by email to sciencepark@corkcoco.ie with the final date for submissions March 23.
Irish Examiner
www.buckplanning.ie
People have been invited to comment on and help shape the development of the country’s first science park which has the potential to create up to 6,000 jobs.
The Cork Science and Innovation Park, which analysts say will contribute about e450 million annually to the local economy, will be built on a 150-acre site at Curraheen.
County manager Martin Riordan has described it as a "defining project for Cork".
However, before work can start, there must be a variation to the Carrigaline electoral area plan, which governs the site, and a subsequent variation to the County Development Plan 2009 which was adopted recently.
The council must also assess the environmental impact of the proposed park.
The council will begin a four-week consultation process next week, with information available from council planning offices, libraries, and from the planning section of www.corkcoco.ie
An information session will also take place from 4pm to 8pm next Tuesday, March 3 in the foyer of County Hall where planning staff will be available to brief people.
The council will prepare a draft amendment to the local area plan and the county development plan.
Submissions can be made in writing to the planning policy unit in County Hall or by email to sciencepark@corkcoco.ie with the final date for submissions March 23.
Irish Examiner
www.buckplanning.ie
Bord Pleanála rejects hillside development near Dingle
A SUBSTANTIAL residential and holiday-home development proposed for a scenic hillside a kilometre from Dingle town centre has been refused permission by An Bord Pleanála.
This was done mainly on the grounds that it would create sprawl and work against recent efforts to create a compact town in Dingle, Co Kerry.
The decision has been welcomed by local conservationists, who have objected to much of the recent development in the coastal town.
Seán Brosnan, a local conservationist, said: “Dingle is a sensitive place, it needs sensitive, well-planned development. Clearly sprawl is not well planned.”
Kerry County Council had already refused planning for the 94 houses, which included 27 holiday homes, and the renovation of an old farmhouse on 10 acres on the Conor Pass side of the town.
Part of the access would have been from the Dingle Way walking route.
Submissions to the council detailed how there were already lots of houses for sale in Dingle, that there were too many holiday homes and too many empty houses.
There was also criticism of much of the recent elevated development around the town which runs down to the sea.
The objectors also claimed the proposed site was “rural in character” and removed from the town centre.
Agents for the applicants, Dunboy Homes, appealed the council’s refusal.
They pointed out that the land had been zoned for residential use and “incorporated within the town boundary of An Daingean” in 2006.They said that development of the site could, therefore, be expected.
The appellants also submitted that adjacent developments were more visually intrusive upon views from the Conor Pass tourist route.
The planning board refused permission “having regard to provide for the development of a compact and accessible town”, the elevated and exposed scenic setting of the site and the possibility of disturbing subsurface archaeological remains.
Locals believe that about 400 houses are empty in Dingle.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
This was done mainly on the grounds that it would create sprawl and work against recent efforts to create a compact town in Dingle, Co Kerry.
The decision has been welcomed by local conservationists, who have objected to much of the recent development in the coastal town.
Seán Brosnan, a local conservationist, said: “Dingle is a sensitive place, it needs sensitive, well-planned development. Clearly sprawl is not well planned.”
Kerry County Council had already refused planning for the 94 houses, which included 27 holiday homes, and the renovation of an old farmhouse on 10 acres on the Conor Pass side of the town.
Part of the access would have been from the Dingle Way walking route.
Submissions to the council detailed how there were already lots of houses for sale in Dingle, that there were too many holiday homes and too many empty houses.
There was also criticism of much of the recent elevated development around the town which runs down to the sea.
The objectors also claimed the proposed site was “rural in character” and removed from the town centre.
Agents for the applicants, Dunboy Homes, appealed the council’s refusal.
They pointed out that the land had been zoned for residential use and “incorporated within the town boundary of An Daingean” in 2006.They said that development of the site could, therefore, be expected.
The appellants also submitted that adjacent developments were more visually intrusive upon views from the Conor Pass tourist route.
The planning board refused permission “having regard to provide for the development of a compact and accessible town”, the elevated and exposed scenic setting of the site and the possibility of disturbing subsurface archaeological remains.
Locals believe that about 400 houses are empty in Dingle.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Former county manager rejoins Dún Laoghaire council
A FORMER county manager, who left a local authority in 2005 before joining a company associated with a developer involved in a controversial planning proposal, has rejoined the council.
Former Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown county manager Derek Brady became a consultant with Alburn Limited, a firm associated with developer Noel Smyth, when Mr Brady left the council in 2005.
His move to Alburn came after Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council controversially signalled its intention in 2005 to approve a proposal to build one of Ireland’s tallest buildings – a 24-storey apartment tower at Sandyford, in south Co Dublin. The plan was eventually rejected by An Bord Pleanála last year. Mr Brady is now rejoining the council on a “short-term temporary contract” to advise it on its involvement in a joint venture to develop 64 acres in Cherrywood.
In a letter to councillors on Tuesday, county manager Owen Keegan said Mr Brady’s appointment “may generate some media interest”, but said Mr Brady was “not conflicted”.
The council has, since 1997, been involved as a minority partner in a joint venture (JV) with two firms in the Dunloe Ewart Group to develop the Cherrywood site. The agreement was due to expire at the end of 2008, but was extended until June 30th.
“The council needs to consider whether and on what basis it should seek to extend the JV agreement beyond June 30th, 2009,” Mr Keegan’s letter stated.
It said that given the deteriorating outlook for commercial development and the “growing financial constraints” on the council “very detailed consideration had to be given to a range of issues before any decision in relation to the JV could be made.
“As the council does not have the necessary expertise in-house, I have asked Mr Brady, former county manager, to assist the council in view of his knowledge of the JV and his unique background in both the local authority and property development sectors,” the letter added. “I propose to offer Mr Brady, who is not conflicted, a short-term temporary contract of employment.”
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown councillor Ruairi Holohan of the Green Party said Mr Brady was a “bizarre person to recruit”.
“If you’re going to choose anyone why would you choose a controversial person? I’m sure he has intimate knowledge of the area, but really someone with such bad blood between himself and the councillors is a bizarre decision.
“There are so many people who could have been chosen who have the expertise and not this person. I can’t understand the motives of appointing someone like him.”
The council said yesterday Mr Keegan was unavailable for comment and it “would not be facilitating any contact with Mr Brady”.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Former Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown county manager Derek Brady became a consultant with Alburn Limited, a firm associated with developer Noel Smyth, when Mr Brady left the council in 2005.
His move to Alburn came after Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council controversially signalled its intention in 2005 to approve a proposal to build one of Ireland’s tallest buildings – a 24-storey apartment tower at Sandyford, in south Co Dublin. The plan was eventually rejected by An Bord Pleanála last year. Mr Brady is now rejoining the council on a “short-term temporary contract” to advise it on its involvement in a joint venture to develop 64 acres in Cherrywood.
In a letter to councillors on Tuesday, county manager Owen Keegan said Mr Brady’s appointment “may generate some media interest”, but said Mr Brady was “not conflicted”.
The council has, since 1997, been involved as a minority partner in a joint venture (JV) with two firms in the Dunloe Ewart Group to develop the Cherrywood site. The agreement was due to expire at the end of 2008, but was extended until June 30th.
“The council needs to consider whether and on what basis it should seek to extend the JV agreement beyond June 30th, 2009,” Mr Keegan’s letter stated.
It said that given the deteriorating outlook for commercial development and the “growing financial constraints” on the council “very detailed consideration had to be given to a range of issues before any decision in relation to the JV could be made.
“As the council does not have the necessary expertise in-house, I have asked Mr Brady, former county manager, to assist the council in view of his knowledge of the JV and his unique background in both the local authority and property development sectors,” the letter added. “I propose to offer Mr Brady, who is not conflicted, a short-term temporary contract of employment.”
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown councillor Ruairi Holohan of the Green Party said Mr Brady was a “bizarre person to recruit”.
“If you’re going to choose anyone why would you choose a controversial person? I’m sure he has intimate knowledge of the area, but really someone with such bad blood between himself and the councillors is a bizarre decision.
“There are so many people who could have been chosen who have the expertise and not this person. I can’t understand the motives of appointing someone like him.”
The council said yesterday Mr Keegan was unavailable for comment and it “would not be facilitating any contact with Mr Brady”.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
People power: how to generate your own electricity
MICRO-GENERATION IS defined as the generation of low-emission power and heat by individuals, small businesses and communities to meet their own needs.
Eligible micro-generation installations under the new scheme announced yesterday include small-scale wind turbines, solar panels, hydro (water power) and combined heat and power (CHP), ie an electricity generator fuelled by biomass.
Home and land owners interested in the scheme are advised to:
* Select a micro-generator suitable to your location that uses an interface certified as meeting the required ESB Network settings.
* Notify ESB Networks that you intend to connect your micro- generation to its network using its standard application form.
* Purchase the micro-generator from a reputable supplier.
* Use a qualified installer and registered electrical contractor to install and connect the micro-generator to your home.
* A comprehensive guide is available from the Sustainable Energy Ireland website. www.sei.ie
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Eligible micro-generation installations under the new scheme announced yesterday include small-scale wind turbines, solar panels, hydro (water power) and combined heat and power (CHP), ie an electricity generator fuelled by biomass.
Home and land owners interested in the scheme are advised to:
* Select a micro-generator suitable to your location that uses an interface certified as meeting the required ESB Network settings.
* Notify ESB Networks that you intend to connect your micro- generation to its network using its standard application form.
* Purchase the micro-generator from a reputable supplier.
* Use a qualified installer and registered electrical contractor to install and connect the micro-generator to your home.
* A comprehensive guide is available from the Sustainable Energy Ireland website. www.sei.ie
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
New plan to promote turbines for houses
HOUSEHOLDS COULD soon be receiving a cheque rather than a bill from the ESB under a new electricity-generation scheme announced yesterday by Minister for Energy Eamon Ryan.
Home and landowners are being encouraged to set up their own small micro-generation units under the initiative, which will enable them to generate electricity to power their own homes and sell any excess energy back into the national grid.
Mr Ryan announced that the first 4,000 people to install small-scale wind turbines, solar panels or hydro-power generators would be offered 19 cent per kilowatt hour, up to 5c more than it costs to power homes, for any surplus energy they sell back into the grid over the next three years.
Ireland is considered to have some of the best energy-producing winds in Europe, and a high percentage of the population lives in one-off houses on sites suitable for wind-energy generation.
Mr Ryan said the initiative could change the nature of electricity generation in Ireland and help reduce the State’s €6 billion a year spend on fossil fuels.
“Before you received your power from a central source and paid for it,” he said. “Now you can generate electricity to power your own home, and when you generate extra power you can expect a cheque rather than a bill in the post from the ESB.”
Mr Ryan said with the right supports Ireland could use its abundant natural resources to bolster the economy, create green-collar jobs and help lift the State out of recession.
He said creating green jobs and wealth generation was the best and most sustainable way to reverse the nation’s economic fortunes.
“What we have to do is replace the lending that took place in the whole construction sector in recent years with lending in areas like this where there is a real measured return for supply.
“There are good, sustainable long-term jobs in green energy installation and maintenance businesses, and that is where my mind is focused in the present climate in terms of trying to get the country out of our economic crisis.”
Under the scheme, small, low-emission energy-generation units are to be exempt from planning permission, and the ESB is to introduce a connection policy to reduce the length and complexity of the process, according to Mr Ryan.
The Commission for Energy Regulation last week announced that micro-generated electricity would be purchased for 9c per kilowatt hour. ESB Networks will contribute an additional 10c per kilowatt for the first 4,000 users.
It is estimated that setting up a micro-generation unit costs between €17,000 and €30,000.
Quentin Gargan of Turbotricity, an Irish company developing household wind turbines, believes the move will provide an enormous boost to Ireland’s green-collar economy.
Mr Gargan said the tariff offered would make wind turbines viable in sites that have good wind conditions, but he warned those interested in the scheme to assess their site before deciding.
“A turbine needs to be wide open to wind from any direction between southwest and northwest. Turbulence from buildings or hedges upwind of it will decimate the productivity of any wind turbine.”
Irish Farmers Association vice-president Seán O’Leary described the announcement as an important first step, but said the tariff offered for micro-generation must be increased to match prices paid in Germany and France.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Home and landowners are being encouraged to set up their own small micro-generation units under the initiative, which will enable them to generate electricity to power their own homes and sell any excess energy back into the national grid.
Mr Ryan announced that the first 4,000 people to install small-scale wind turbines, solar panels or hydro-power generators would be offered 19 cent per kilowatt hour, up to 5c more than it costs to power homes, for any surplus energy they sell back into the grid over the next three years.
Ireland is considered to have some of the best energy-producing winds in Europe, and a high percentage of the population lives in one-off houses on sites suitable for wind-energy generation.
Mr Ryan said the initiative could change the nature of electricity generation in Ireland and help reduce the State’s €6 billion a year spend on fossil fuels.
“Before you received your power from a central source and paid for it,” he said. “Now you can generate electricity to power your own home, and when you generate extra power you can expect a cheque rather than a bill in the post from the ESB.”
Mr Ryan said with the right supports Ireland could use its abundant natural resources to bolster the economy, create green-collar jobs and help lift the State out of recession.
He said creating green jobs and wealth generation was the best and most sustainable way to reverse the nation’s economic fortunes.
“What we have to do is replace the lending that took place in the whole construction sector in recent years with lending in areas like this where there is a real measured return for supply.
“There are good, sustainable long-term jobs in green energy installation and maintenance businesses, and that is where my mind is focused in the present climate in terms of trying to get the country out of our economic crisis.”
Under the scheme, small, low-emission energy-generation units are to be exempt from planning permission, and the ESB is to introduce a connection policy to reduce the length and complexity of the process, according to Mr Ryan.
The Commission for Energy Regulation last week announced that micro-generated electricity would be purchased for 9c per kilowatt hour. ESB Networks will contribute an additional 10c per kilowatt for the first 4,000 users.
It is estimated that setting up a micro-generation unit costs between €17,000 and €30,000.
Quentin Gargan of Turbotricity, an Irish company developing household wind turbines, believes the move will provide an enormous boost to Ireland’s green-collar economy.
Mr Gargan said the tariff offered would make wind turbines viable in sites that have good wind conditions, but he warned those interested in the scheme to assess their site before deciding.
“A turbine needs to be wide open to wind from any direction between southwest and northwest. Turbulence from buildings or hedges upwind of it will decimate the productivity of any wind turbine.”
Irish Farmers Association vice-president Seán O’Leary described the announcement as an important first step, but said the tariff offered for micro-generation must be increased to match prices paid in Germany and France.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Thursday, 26 February 2009
CRACKS in the walls and floors of up to 750 houses are "insignificant" and not caused by building material supplied by one of the country's largest
AN BORD PLEANÁLA was yesterday accused of being out of touch for continuing to put on hold a decision on the e350 million Opera retail centre in Limerick.
Mayor John Gilligan said he has lost faith in the planning appeals board after a ruling on the Opera centre was deferred for a further four months.
Last week, An Bord Pleanala set April 9 as the decision date on the biggest retail development ever planned in the mid-west.
But the ruling will now be delayed as An Bord Pleanála requested further revised drawings for historic buildings on the proposed site at Rutland Street, Michael Street, Ellen Street and Patrick Street.
Mr Gilligan said: "Limerick City Council has to make a decision on a development within eight weeks but An Bord Pleanála can sit on it for six, eight or 12 months.
"I think they are totally out of touch with reality and I’ve just lost faith in them."
If given the go-ahead, the proposed Opera Centre could create up to 300 construction jobs and over 800 retail jobs when completed.
It is hoped that a major retailer such as Marks & Spencer will be attracted to take up an anchor tenancy.
Limerick City Council claim the Opera Centre plan will help the city centre fight the drift to suburban shopping centres, which has hit city centre trading.
An Bord Pleanála has given approval for a major development at Limerick’s Milk Market which will see it covered and extended to include a 120-seat restaurant.
The market only opens on Saturday mornings but An Bord Pleanala’s decision will now see it open six days a week.
Irish Examiner
www.buckplanning.ie
Mayor John Gilligan said he has lost faith in the planning appeals board after a ruling on the Opera centre was deferred for a further four months.
Last week, An Bord Pleanala set April 9 as the decision date on the biggest retail development ever planned in the mid-west.
But the ruling will now be delayed as An Bord Pleanála requested further revised drawings for historic buildings on the proposed site at Rutland Street, Michael Street, Ellen Street and Patrick Street.
Mr Gilligan said: "Limerick City Council has to make a decision on a development within eight weeks but An Bord Pleanála can sit on it for six, eight or 12 months.
"I think they are totally out of touch with reality and I’ve just lost faith in them."
If given the go-ahead, the proposed Opera Centre could create up to 300 construction jobs and over 800 retail jobs when completed.
It is hoped that a major retailer such as Marks & Spencer will be attracted to take up an anchor tenancy.
Limerick City Council claim the Opera Centre plan will help the city centre fight the drift to suburban shopping centres, which has hit city centre trading.
An Bord Pleanála has given approval for a major development at Limerick’s Milk Market which will see it covered and extended to include a 120-seat restaurant.
The market only opens on Saturday mornings but An Bord Pleanala’s decision will now see it open six days a week.
Irish Examiner
www.buckplanning.ie
Quarry firm denies infill defects
CRACKS in the walls and floors of up to 750 houses are "insignificant" and not caused by building material supplied by one of the country's largest quarrying companies, a court heard yesterday.
Yesterday, the Lagan Group launched a robust defence to claims by Menolly Homes, owned by developer Seamus Ross, that infill it supplied to four building companies controlled by Mr Ross was defective.
The denial came as Menolly Homes said it may apply to have the €60m row over structural defects in hundreds of homes in three new housing estates in Dublin struck out of court after new evidence came to light.
Menolly Homes, which built the homes using infill supplied from a Lagan-owned quarry, signalled its intention to have the litigation struck out after receiving minutes of three Lagan management meetings.
The minutes were only handed over to Menolly's lawyers on Monday at 3pm, several hours after Menolly had opened its case at the Commercial Court, sitting in Clonskeagh.
The minutes revealed that Terry Lagan, the group's director, believed that lands at Bay Lane -- its quarry near Dublin Airport -- were unsuitable for quarrying, a revelation described as one of "the utmost seriousness" by Brian O'Moore, senior counsel for Menolly.
Yesterday Mr O'Moore said that the "entire shape of opening of the case" would have been entirely different had the minutes been furnished to him.
Mr Justice Paul Galligan, who is presiding over the case with two designated assessors, said it was up to Menolly whether to accept new, confirmatory statements from Mr Lagan or to seek to have the Lagan Group's defences struck out.
Opening its defence, the Lagan Group insisted that the vast majority of the cracks that appeared in the houses built by Menolly have no structural significance and are unrelated to the infill material gleaned from a quarry it owns at Bay Lane, near Dublin Airport.
Conclusions
It also accused Menolly, which is seeking legal protection against up to €60m in anticipated damages claims from homeowners, of "jumping to conclusions" about the cause of the problems.
Menolly has claimed that the cracking in the houses was caused by the presence of pyrite, a mineral also known as "fool's gold", in aggregate infill procured by Irish Asphalt Limited, Lagan Holdings Ltd and Lagan Construction Limited.
All companies are owned by the Lagan Group.
Senior counsel Hugh O'Neill, opening the case for Lagan, said that Menolly and its experts had convinced themselves that pyrite was the problem in an effort to pass responsibility to the Lagan-owned companies.
"We know about the situation in the country where practically every second house with cracks is having this [the cracks] attributed to pyrite," he said.
"A problem which for some reason we managed to live without for many years is now said to be the root cause of endless cracking."
Mr O'Neill also claimed that Menolly had "rushed" to get the houses built and sold when the property market was booming and alleged that there were defects in the design and workmanship of some of the units.
The case, which could last for several months, continues today.
Dearbhail McDonald Legal Editor
Irish Independent
www.buckplanning.ie
Yesterday, the Lagan Group launched a robust defence to claims by Menolly Homes, owned by developer Seamus Ross, that infill it supplied to four building companies controlled by Mr Ross was defective.
The denial came as Menolly Homes said it may apply to have the €60m row over structural defects in hundreds of homes in three new housing estates in Dublin struck out of court after new evidence came to light.
Menolly Homes, which built the homes using infill supplied from a Lagan-owned quarry, signalled its intention to have the litigation struck out after receiving minutes of three Lagan management meetings.
The minutes were only handed over to Menolly's lawyers on Monday at 3pm, several hours after Menolly had opened its case at the Commercial Court, sitting in Clonskeagh.
The minutes revealed that Terry Lagan, the group's director, believed that lands at Bay Lane -- its quarry near Dublin Airport -- were unsuitable for quarrying, a revelation described as one of "the utmost seriousness" by Brian O'Moore, senior counsel for Menolly.
Yesterday Mr O'Moore said that the "entire shape of opening of the case" would have been entirely different had the minutes been furnished to him.
Mr Justice Paul Galligan, who is presiding over the case with two designated assessors, said it was up to Menolly whether to accept new, confirmatory statements from Mr Lagan or to seek to have the Lagan Group's defences struck out.
Opening its defence, the Lagan Group insisted that the vast majority of the cracks that appeared in the houses built by Menolly have no structural significance and are unrelated to the infill material gleaned from a quarry it owns at Bay Lane, near Dublin Airport.
Conclusions
It also accused Menolly, which is seeking legal protection against up to €60m in anticipated damages claims from homeowners, of "jumping to conclusions" about the cause of the problems.
Menolly has claimed that the cracking in the houses was caused by the presence of pyrite, a mineral also known as "fool's gold", in aggregate infill procured by Irish Asphalt Limited, Lagan Holdings Ltd and Lagan Construction Limited.
All companies are owned by the Lagan Group.
Senior counsel Hugh O'Neill, opening the case for Lagan, said that Menolly and its experts had convinced themselves that pyrite was the problem in an effort to pass responsibility to the Lagan-owned companies.
"We know about the situation in the country where practically every second house with cracks is having this [the cracks] attributed to pyrite," he said.
"A problem which for some reason we managed to live without for many years is now said to be the root cause of endless cracking."
Mr O'Neill also claimed that Menolly had "rushed" to get the houses built and sold when the property market was booming and alleged that there were defects in the design and workmanship of some of the units.
The case, which could last for several months, continues today.
Dearbhail McDonald Legal Editor
Irish Independent
www.buckplanning.ie
Seven-storey scheme for Donnybrook garage site
DEVELOPERS BRYAN Cullen and John O’Sullivan have come back with another planning application for a Donnybrook site which is occupied by a Topaz filling station and Everready tyre centre.
The duo were given the thumbs down last May by Dublin City Council for an 11-storey office block and 22 apartments which was deemed “excessive”.
This time around they are looking for a scaled down version of the previous development proposal for the site at the junction of Donnybrook Road and Brookvale Road.
The developers have submitted a planning application for a mixed-use office, retail and residential development in two blocks which would involve demolishing the Topaz filling station and Everready centre.
The site is across the road from Leinster’s Donnybrook rugby grounds and overlooks Donnybrook Tennis Club.
One of the planned blocks would reach five storeys and incorporate some 3,361sq m (36,177sq ft) of office space, a restaurant, bakery foodhall, café at ground and first floor level, and a roof terrace for the restaurant.
Another block is to rise to seven storeys with 976sq m (10,505sq ft) of office space, a restaurant at ground and part-basement level, a shop and 10 two-bed apartments.
The site was assembled by John O’Sullivan, Bryan Cullen and Myles O’Malley of O’Malley Construction.
Cullen bought the filling station from Topaz for €15 million and various other parts of the site were assembled over the years, with most of O’Sullivan’s land owned since 1988, including the Everready centre.
Meanwhile An Taisce has appealed the proposed redevelopment of Harcourt Terrace Garda station to An Bord Pleanála.
A subsidiary of the Durkan Group is looking to demolish the 1950s Garda station, old film censor’s office and other buildings on site, and build a four-storey residential block facing onto Harcourt Terrace.
A seven-storey office block with setback levels fronting onto Charlemont Place is also included in the development.
The proposal is smaller in scale than one refused planning permission by An Bord Pleanála early last year.
The developer is seeking permission to build 24 apartments in a four-storey block compared to a more ambitious 43 apartments in two blocks rising to nine storeys last time around.
The office element proposed is 10,413sq m (112,084sq ft) compared to 12,714sq m (136,854sq ft) last time.
However, An Taisce says the developer has not adequately addressed the previous refusal by An Bord Pleanála “in respect of the scale and design of the residential building proposed to replace the Garda station and the Film Censor’s office on Harcourt Terrace”.
It suggests that the planned building is modified by omitting projecting balconies onto Harcourt Terrace, the use of muted brick or sandstone cladding instead of Portland stone and the omission of one floor to make it a three-storey building.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
The duo were given the thumbs down last May by Dublin City Council for an 11-storey office block and 22 apartments which was deemed “excessive”.
This time around they are looking for a scaled down version of the previous development proposal for the site at the junction of Donnybrook Road and Brookvale Road.
The developers have submitted a planning application for a mixed-use office, retail and residential development in two blocks which would involve demolishing the Topaz filling station and Everready centre.
The site is across the road from Leinster’s Donnybrook rugby grounds and overlooks Donnybrook Tennis Club.
One of the planned blocks would reach five storeys and incorporate some 3,361sq m (36,177sq ft) of office space, a restaurant, bakery foodhall, café at ground and first floor level, and a roof terrace for the restaurant.
Another block is to rise to seven storeys with 976sq m (10,505sq ft) of office space, a restaurant at ground and part-basement level, a shop and 10 two-bed apartments.
The site was assembled by John O’Sullivan, Bryan Cullen and Myles O’Malley of O’Malley Construction.
Cullen bought the filling station from Topaz for €15 million and various other parts of the site were assembled over the years, with most of O’Sullivan’s land owned since 1988, including the Everready centre.
Meanwhile An Taisce has appealed the proposed redevelopment of Harcourt Terrace Garda station to An Bord Pleanála.
A subsidiary of the Durkan Group is looking to demolish the 1950s Garda station, old film censor’s office and other buildings on site, and build a four-storey residential block facing onto Harcourt Terrace.
A seven-storey office block with setback levels fronting onto Charlemont Place is also included in the development.
The proposal is smaller in scale than one refused planning permission by An Bord Pleanála early last year.
The developer is seeking permission to build 24 apartments in a four-storey block compared to a more ambitious 43 apartments in two blocks rising to nine storeys last time around.
The office element proposed is 10,413sq m (112,084sq ft) compared to 12,714sq m (136,854sq ft) last time.
However, An Taisce says the developer has not adequately addressed the previous refusal by An Bord Pleanála “in respect of the scale and design of the residential building proposed to replace the Garda station and the Film Censor’s office on Harcourt Terrace”.
It suggests that the planned building is modified by omitting projecting balconies onto Harcourt Terrace, the use of muted brick or sandstone cladding instead of Portland stone and the omission of one floor to make it a three-storey building.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Sisters and brothers busy making rezoning submissions to council
DESPITE THE recession, there is no shortage of submissions to rezone lands under Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council’s draft development plan 2010-2016.
Religious orders figure quite prominently with the Daughters of Charity at Temple Hill, Blackrock looking to have 6.56 hectares of their lands rezoned for residential development. The sisters have even submitted a framework plan and suggest the “entire scheme might be linked by a new bus route to Blackrock from Newtownpark Avenue”. They estimate the lands will accommodate 867 to 1,094 dwellings and a local centre for residents.
While they will keep it low rise near residential areas, heights of up to seven storeys are muted for Temple Hill frontage, with higher landmark buildings suggested for land remote from housing and overlooking parkland.
Meanwhile the Christian Brothers are looking to have a further 10 acres of their land at Old Conna in Bray rezoned to A1, “to provide for new residential communities subject to a local area plan”.
Already 15 acres of their 25-acre holding is zoned A1 but the submission says the drafting of the local area plan has been hampered by a lack of services and transport.
They also propose that about five acres of the site could be rezoned to E, “to provide for economic development and employment” in light of the proposed routing of the Luas B2 line, and want the institutional zoning to be removed from the north-west corner of the site.
The Christian Brothers are also looking to have 5.6 hectares in Shankill changed from green belt “to protect and enhance the open nature of land between urban centres” to E.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Religious orders figure quite prominently with the Daughters of Charity at Temple Hill, Blackrock looking to have 6.56 hectares of their lands rezoned for residential development. The sisters have even submitted a framework plan and suggest the “entire scheme might be linked by a new bus route to Blackrock from Newtownpark Avenue”. They estimate the lands will accommodate 867 to 1,094 dwellings and a local centre for residents.
While they will keep it low rise near residential areas, heights of up to seven storeys are muted for Temple Hill frontage, with higher landmark buildings suggested for land remote from housing and overlooking parkland.
Meanwhile the Christian Brothers are looking to have a further 10 acres of their land at Old Conna in Bray rezoned to A1, “to provide for new residential communities subject to a local area plan”.
Already 15 acres of their 25-acre holding is zoned A1 but the submission says the drafting of the local area plan has been hampered by a lack of services and transport.
They also propose that about five acres of the site could be rezoned to E, “to provide for economic development and employment” in light of the proposed routing of the Luas B2 line, and want the institutional zoning to be removed from the north-west corner of the site.
The Christian Brothers are also looking to have 5.6 hectares in Shankill changed from green belt “to protect and enhance the open nature of land between urban centres” to E.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
€400m housing development in Cork gets the green light
THE DEVELOPER responsible for Ireland’s tallest building, the Elysian tower in Cork, has got permission for a €400 million development of 1,200 houses on the outskirts of Cork city. Planning was granted yesterday for the 235-acre site close to the Dunkettle roundabout and Glanmire village.
Developer Michael O’Flynn, managing director of O’Flynn Construction, plans to proceed with the project despite plummeting property prices.
O’Flynn completed the €150 million Elysian apartment complex and Japanese Gardens in Cork city last year, but most of the apartments in the 17-storey tower lie empty. His latest project will see two new neighbourhoods built at Dunkettle and Ballinglanna – 6km east of Cork city – to include local retail and community facilities.
The historic Dunkettle House, a protected structure which is located on the site, will be fully renovated and a management plan to ensure its long-term future is to be put in place. It is hoped Dunkettle House will become a visitor attraction and its extensive grounds will serve as parklands for the estimated 2,500 residents of the new housing development.
The 1,200 homes will be built on a phased basis over a 10-year period and will eventually be served by a new railway station at Dunkettle, part of the Cork to Midleton rail line.
The approved development is an amalgamation of two separate planning applications turned down by An Bord Pleanála in 2004. At the time, the planning board had recommended that a masterplan including both developments be drawn up for the greenfield site.
The decision to permit the O’Flynn Construction scheme provides for substantial new improvements to the Dunkettle Road and the Dunkettle interchange, two of the main eastern gateway points into Cork city, which will be carried out in conjunction with the proposed new neighbourhoods.
Facilities at the site will include a retail centre, two creches and a medical centre. A parcel of land is to be reserved for the provision of a 16-classroom primary school and a day-care centre for older people.
Recreational amenities will include a multipurpose community hall, play areas and “multiuse games areas”.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Developer Michael O’Flynn, managing director of O’Flynn Construction, plans to proceed with the project despite plummeting property prices.
O’Flynn completed the €150 million Elysian apartment complex and Japanese Gardens in Cork city last year, but most of the apartments in the 17-storey tower lie empty. His latest project will see two new neighbourhoods built at Dunkettle and Ballinglanna – 6km east of Cork city – to include local retail and community facilities.
The historic Dunkettle House, a protected structure which is located on the site, will be fully renovated and a management plan to ensure its long-term future is to be put in place. It is hoped Dunkettle House will become a visitor attraction and its extensive grounds will serve as parklands for the estimated 2,500 residents of the new housing development.
The 1,200 homes will be built on a phased basis over a 10-year period and will eventually be served by a new railway station at Dunkettle, part of the Cork to Midleton rail line.
The approved development is an amalgamation of two separate planning applications turned down by An Bord Pleanála in 2004. At the time, the planning board had recommended that a masterplan including both developments be drawn up for the greenfield site.
The decision to permit the O’Flynn Construction scheme provides for substantial new improvements to the Dunkettle Road and the Dunkettle interchange, two of the main eastern gateway points into Cork city, which will be carried out in conjunction with the proposed new neighbourhoods.
Facilities at the site will include a retail centre, two creches and a medical centre. A parcel of land is to be reserved for the provision of a 16-classroom primary school and a day-care centre for older people.
Recreational amenities will include a multipurpose community hall, play areas and “multiuse games areas”.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
€2m facelift for Limerick Milk Market
A MAJOR development for one of the country’s oldest market places is set to commence within weeks.
The transformation of Limerick Milk Market, which dates back to 1852, is an extensive project due to be completed by early next year.
This follows the decision by Limerick City Council, and An Bord Pleanála to grant permission for the project to the Limerick Market Trustees, a non-profit group responsible for running markets throughout the city and environs.
David O’Mahony, the chairman of Limerick Market Trustees, said the project will cost in excess of €2 million and would “move quickly to implementation, once the tendering process is complete”.
“Our plan is to build upon the phenomenal success of our open air Saturday Milk Market, transforming it into an even more vibrant, enlarged, week-long market venue, which will be weather-proofed and will attract more shoppers and visitors into the heart of Limerick city,” he said.
“In advancing our plans, we are conscious that we are the guardians of a unique and historic market which dates back to 1852. Our plan will fully protect the integrity of the market and will make it a landmark city attraction.”
The redeveloped market will provide opportunities for more small traders to showcase diverse and local produce, from fresh and fine foods through to horticultural produce, crafts and fashions, continued Mr O’Mahoney.
The transformation plan incorporates a structure covering the Milk Market courtyard, protecting visitors from the elements. A mezzanine floor, to extend from the existing Market House will accommodate a restaurant overlooking the market.
Beneath this will be a number of permanent trading outlets that will typically sell speciality foods and beverages, in keeping with the market’s ethos.
“The dynamic of a market, where the stallholders sell what they produce direct to shoppers, is very special. It creates a buzz, an energy and a business stimulant that is just brilliant, particularly within a city centre. Our plans are to facilitate this ‘buzz’ by providing a more perfect environment for both the stallholders and the shoppers. We will also be promoting the market as a venue for a range of special events, complementary to the market, to add to its overall appeal and to the contribution the market will make to the city,” said Mr O’Mahony.
In the coming weeks the market trustees will be detailing the opportunities the market presents for specialist retailers, producers and event organisers.
The development will form part of the Limerick Market Trustees overall strategy for increasing markets in the city. It is hoped it will complement the Riverside market, which runs on Sundays from April to October on Bedford Row in Limerick city centre.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
The transformation of Limerick Milk Market, which dates back to 1852, is an extensive project due to be completed by early next year.
This follows the decision by Limerick City Council, and An Bord Pleanála to grant permission for the project to the Limerick Market Trustees, a non-profit group responsible for running markets throughout the city and environs.
David O’Mahony, the chairman of Limerick Market Trustees, said the project will cost in excess of €2 million and would “move quickly to implementation, once the tendering process is complete”.
“Our plan is to build upon the phenomenal success of our open air Saturday Milk Market, transforming it into an even more vibrant, enlarged, week-long market venue, which will be weather-proofed and will attract more shoppers and visitors into the heart of Limerick city,” he said.
“In advancing our plans, we are conscious that we are the guardians of a unique and historic market which dates back to 1852. Our plan will fully protect the integrity of the market and will make it a landmark city attraction.”
The redeveloped market will provide opportunities for more small traders to showcase diverse and local produce, from fresh and fine foods through to horticultural produce, crafts and fashions, continued Mr O’Mahoney.
The transformation plan incorporates a structure covering the Milk Market courtyard, protecting visitors from the elements. A mezzanine floor, to extend from the existing Market House will accommodate a restaurant overlooking the market.
Beneath this will be a number of permanent trading outlets that will typically sell speciality foods and beverages, in keeping with the market’s ethos.
“The dynamic of a market, where the stallholders sell what they produce direct to shoppers, is very special. It creates a buzz, an energy and a business stimulant that is just brilliant, particularly within a city centre. Our plans are to facilitate this ‘buzz’ by providing a more perfect environment for both the stallholders and the shoppers. We will also be promoting the market as a venue for a range of special events, complementary to the market, to add to its overall appeal and to the contribution the market will make to the city,” said Mr O’Mahony.
In the coming weeks the market trustees will be detailing the opportunities the market presents for specialist retailers, producers and event organisers.
The development will form part of the Limerick Market Trustees overall strategy for increasing markets in the city. It is hoped it will complement the Riverside market, which runs on Sundays from April to October on Bedford Row in Limerick city centre.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Plans to acquire Cork heritage estate abandoned
THE IRISH Heritage Trust has confirmed that it has had to abandon the negotiations which were close to completing its acquisition of the Anne’s Grove estate in north Cork because of current Government cutbacks.
Described by a spokesman as “a wonderful offer of an estate of international importance which we cannot now accept”, Anne’s Grove at Castletownroche is the home of the Grove Annesley family where a famous riverside garden is the centrepiece of a 500- acre estate comprising house, home farm, double stableyard, riverbank and woodlands.
It lies deep in the Blackwater valley close to Spenser’s home at Doneraile which was also the home of Canon Sheehan, close also to the Hennessys of Cognac fame at Kilavullen and to the birthplace of Edmund Burke, and long associated with Farahy, home of Elizabeth Bowen at nearby Bowens’ Court.
While a slight reduction in the core grant supporting the trust does not affect its ability to continue with the development of other projects, the endowment fund of €5 million and associated tax credits which had been allocated for Anne’s Grove were withdrawn two weeks ago. The spokesman indicated that “all bets are off now” with regard to the €35 million earmarked for the trust over the duration of the National Development Plan.
While the Grove Annesleys settled in Castletownroche in 1628 the present house was built in the early 18th century on a plateau immediately above the Awbeg river. Although much of the early plan of the gardens survives, its most significant development came with the dedication of Richard and Hilda Grove Annesley from 1907 to 1966. At present the estate is run by a family trust managed by Patrick Annesley and his wife Jane; it is understood that at one point the family offered to sell the farmland in order to provide a restoration fund for the Irish Heritage Trust, which has confirmed that it was offered the estate on very generous terms.
The dilemma for the Annesleys is that while the trust has not absolutely ruled out the possibility of re-opening negotiations, the value of the property itself has been reduced in the interval since the initial assessments. While the trust’s plan was to keep intact one of the country’s few examples of a complete country house estate, the family is considering other options in an effort to generate sufficient capital to ensure the continued preservation of the demesne.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Described by a spokesman as “a wonderful offer of an estate of international importance which we cannot now accept”, Anne’s Grove at Castletownroche is the home of the Grove Annesley family where a famous riverside garden is the centrepiece of a 500- acre estate comprising house, home farm, double stableyard, riverbank and woodlands.
It lies deep in the Blackwater valley close to Spenser’s home at Doneraile which was also the home of Canon Sheehan, close also to the Hennessys of Cognac fame at Kilavullen and to the birthplace of Edmund Burke, and long associated with Farahy, home of Elizabeth Bowen at nearby Bowens’ Court.
While a slight reduction in the core grant supporting the trust does not affect its ability to continue with the development of other projects, the endowment fund of €5 million and associated tax credits which had been allocated for Anne’s Grove were withdrawn two weeks ago. The spokesman indicated that “all bets are off now” with regard to the €35 million earmarked for the trust over the duration of the National Development Plan.
While the Grove Annesleys settled in Castletownroche in 1628 the present house was built in the early 18th century on a plateau immediately above the Awbeg river. Although much of the early plan of the gardens survives, its most significant development came with the dedication of Richard and Hilda Grove Annesley from 1907 to 1966. At present the estate is run by a family trust managed by Patrick Annesley and his wife Jane; it is understood that at one point the family offered to sell the farmland in order to provide a restoration fund for the Irish Heritage Trust, which has confirmed that it was offered the estate on very generous terms.
The dilemma for the Annesleys is that while the trust has not absolutely ruled out the possibility of re-opening negotiations, the value of the property itself has been reduced in the interval since the initial assessments. While the trust’s plan was to keep intact one of the country’s few examples of a complete country house estate, the family is considering other options in an effort to generate sufficient capital to ensure the continued preservation of the demesne.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Wind turbine plan for homeowners
MEASURES TO encourage members of the public to generate their own electricity are to be announced today by Minister for Energy Eamon Ryan.
Under the scheme, householders and landowners who own or install wind turbines are to be offered incentives to generate power for their own homes and the option to sell excess energy to the national grid. The Commission for Energy Regulation last week announced that the ESB is to buy electricity from microgenerators, ie householders with their own wind generators or other renewable electricity systems, at a tariff of nine cent per kilowatt.
Mr Ryan is to announce the incentives at the Renewable Energy Systems open day in Straffan, Co Kildare. He will also reveal details of a grant-assisted pilot study covering part of the cost of setting up a microgenerator.
A guide outlining how people can get their turbines connected to the national grid will also be released.
Ireland is considered to have some of the best energy-producing winds in Europe and a high percentage of the population live in one-off houses on sites suitable for wind-energy generation.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Under the scheme, householders and landowners who own or install wind turbines are to be offered incentives to generate power for their own homes and the option to sell excess energy to the national grid. The Commission for Energy Regulation last week announced that the ESB is to buy electricity from microgenerators, ie householders with their own wind generators or other renewable electricity systems, at a tariff of nine cent per kilowatt.
Mr Ryan is to announce the incentives at the Renewable Energy Systems open day in Straffan, Co Kildare. He will also reveal details of a grant-assisted pilot study covering part of the cost of setting up a microgenerator.
A guide outlining how people can get their turbines connected to the national grid will also be released.
Ireland is considered to have some of the best energy-producing winds in Europe and a high percentage of the population live in one-off houses on sites suitable for wind-energy generation.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Wednesday, 25 February 2009
Quarry firm denies infill defects
CRACKS in the walls and floors of up to 750 houses are "insignificant" and not caused by building material supplied by one of the country's largest quarrying companies, a court heard yesterday.
Yesterday, the Lagan Group launched a robust defence to claims by Menolly Homes, owned by developer Seamus Ross, that infill it supplied to four building companies controlled by Mr Ross was defective.
The denial came as Menolly Homes said it may apply to have the €60m row over structural defects in hundreds of homes in three new housing estates in Dublin struck out of court after new evidence came to light.
Menolly Homes, which built the homes using infill supplied from a Lagan-owned quarry, signalled its intention to have the litigation struck out after receiving minutes of three Lagan management meetings.
The minutes were only handed over to Menolly's lawyers on Monday at 3pm, several hours after Menolly had opened its case at the Commercial Court, sitting in Clonskeagh.
The minutes revealed that Terry Lagan, the group's director, believed that lands at Bay Lane -- its quarry near Dublin Airport -- were unsuitable for quarrying, a revelation described as one of "the utmost seriousness" by Brian O'Moore, senior counsel for Menolly.
Yesterday Mr O'Moore said that the "entire shape of opening of the case" would have been entirely different had the minutes been furnished to him.
Mr Justice Paul Galligan, who is presiding over the case with two designated assessors, said it was up to Menolly whether to accept new, confirmatory statements from Mr Lagan or to seek to have the Lagan Group's defences struck out.
Opening its defence, the Lagan Group insisted that the vast majority of the cracks that appeared in the houses built by Menolly have no structural significance and are unrelated to the infill material gleaned from a quarry it owns at Bay Lane, near Dublin Airport.
Conclusions
It also accused Menolly, which is seeking legal protection against up to €60m in anticipated damages claims from homeowners, of "jumping to conclusions" about the cause of the problems.
Menolly has claimed that the cracking in the houses was caused by the presence of pyrite, a mineral also known as "fool's gold", in aggregate infill procured by Irish Asphalt Limited, Lagan Holdings Ltd and Lagan Construction Limited.
All companies are owned by the Lagan Group.
Senior counsel Hugh O'Neill, opening the case for Lagan, said that Menolly and its experts had convinced themselves that pyrite was the problem in an effort to pass responsibility to the Lagan-owned companies.
"We know about the situation in the country where practically every second house with cracks is having this [the cracks] attributed to pyrite," he said.
"A problem which for some reason we managed to live without for many years is now said to be the root cause of endless cracking."
Mr O'Neill also claimed that Menolly had "rushed" to get the houses built and sold when the property market was booming and alleged that there were defects in the design and workmanship of some of the units.
The case, which could last for several months, continues today.
Dearbhail McDonald Legal Editor
Irish Independent
www.buckplanning.ie
Yesterday, the Lagan Group launched a robust defence to claims by Menolly Homes, owned by developer Seamus Ross, that infill it supplied to four building companies controlled by Mr Ross was defective.
The denial came as Menolly Homes said it may apply to have the €60m row over structural defects in hundreds of homes in three new housing estates in Dublin struck out of court after new evidence came to light.
Menolly Homes, which built the homes using infill supplied from a Lagan-owned quarry, signalled its intention to have the litigation struck out after receiving minutes of three Lagan management meetings.
The minutes were only handed over to Menolly's lawyers on Monday at 3pm, several hours after Menolly had opened its case at the Commercial Court, sitting in Clonskeagh.
The minutes revealed that Terry Lagan, the group's director, believed that lands at Bay Lane -- its quarry near Dublin Airport -- were unsuitable for quarrying, a revelation described as one of "the utmost seriousness" by Brian O'Moore, senior counsel for Menolly.
Yesterday Mr O'Moore said that the "entire shape of opening of the case" would have been entirely different had the minutes been furnished to him.
Mr Justice Paul Galligan, who is presiding over the case with two designated assessors, said it was up to Menolly whether to accept new, confirmatory statements from Mr Lagan or to seek to have the Lagan Group's defences struck out.
Opening its defence, the Lagan Group insisted that the vast majority of the cracks that appeared in the houses built by Menolly have no structural significance and are unrelated to the infill material gleaned from a quarry it owns at Bay Lane, near Dublin Airport.
Conclusions
It also accused Menolly, which is seeking legal protection against up to €60m in anticipated damages claims from homeowners, of "jumping to conclusions" about the cause of the problems.
Menolly has claimed that the cracking in the houses was caused by the presence of pyrite, a mineral also known as "fool's gold", in aggregate infill procured by Irish Asphalt Limited, Lagan Holdings Ltd and Lagan Construction Limited.
All companies are owned by the Lagan Group.
Senior counsel Hugh O'Neill, opening the case for Lagan, said that Menolly and its experts had convinced themselves that pyrite was the problem in an effort to pass responsibility to the Lagan-owned companies.
"We know about the situation in the country where practically every second house with cracks is having this [the cracks] attributed to pyrite," he said.
"A problem which for some reason we managed to live without for many years is now said to be the root cause of endless cracking."
Mr O'Neill also claimed that Menolly had "rushed" to get the houses built and sold when the property market was booming and alleged that there were defects in the design and workmanship of some of the units.
The case, which could last for several months, continues today.
Dearbhail McDonald Legal Editor
Irish Independent
www.buckplanning.ie
Department warns An Bord Pleanála of risks from harbour incinerators
THE Department of the Environment has lodged a submission to An Bord Pleanála outlining potential risks to human, plant and animal life from the proposed development of two e150 million incinerators at Cork Harbour.
The document which is one of approximately 284 submissions, warns of potential problems that need to be addressed if permission is granted to the 280,000 tonne hazardous and household waste incinerators.
It points out that the incinerator is within one kilometre of a European-Union designated Special Protection Area (SPA) which could be adversely affected by emissions from the incinerators. It also said that the area has more planned areas of conservation including Rostellan and Monkstown Creek.
The department warns there is also a potential risk to flora and fauna in the wider harbour area — including damage to waterbirds from mercury poisoning.
A spokesman for the department, headed by Green Minister John Gormley, last night said the submission was an objection per se.
"The minister hasn’t objected to the proposal as he is precluded by law from doing so. We have simply made comments on the proposal in the context of the possible impacts on any sensitive areas in the vicinity of the facility," he said.
A total of 284 submissions were lodged with An Bord Pleanála earlier this month, under the Strategic Infrastructure Act, objecting to the controversial incinerators.
The objectors are seeking an oral hearing on Indaver’s planned development but it’s not yet known if this request will be complied with. The board could just give a green or red light to the development, without further consultation. They have stated that they want to make a final decision, either way, by mid-June.
Indaver say the incinerators are "must-have" for this country if we want to avoid hefty EU levies for sending too much waste to landfill. A planning application for a 100,000-tonne incinerator was first lodged seven years ago but by the time the planning appeal process had run its course, the original permission had expired. The second request for planning permission was made via An Bord Pleanála as the Strategic Infrastructure Act came into force in the meantime.
Objections were received from the IFA, the Irish Midwives Association, Cobh Doctors Association, East Cork Tourism, local primary and secondary schools, local school boards of management, the Allen family at Ballymaloe House and Monkstown Bay Sailing Club. Local Labour, Fine Gael and Green party TDs and councillors also objected as did Michael McGrath TD of Fianna Fáil.
Cork Harbour for a Safe Environment (CHASE) spokeswoman Linda Fitzpatrick said the group were heartened by the level of objections and that it was much higher than they had expected.
"We were delighted to the see the minister and the department objecting as his predecessors Ministers Roche, Cullen and Dempsey wouldn’t even meet us. We are disgusted however that local people had to pay over e17,500 in total to once again make their views known," she said.
Commenting on the submissions received, an Indaver spokesperson said that many of the objections received by An Bord Pleanála were repetitive in nature.
"Ireland and Cork needs this infrastructure — our waste mountain and economy demands it," said Jane Hennessey.
CHASE have fought the planned incinerator for nearly seven years on the grounds that "the site is the wrong site" for physical reasons and that the local population will suffer adverse health consequences from dioxin emissions.
They say it flouts 13 of 14 World Health Organisation guidelines for locating incinerators including it being on a flood plain and just metres from population centres. It is also an area at risk of coastal erosion.
Irish Examiner
www.buckplanning.ie
The document which is one of approximately 284 submissions, warns of potential problems that need to be addressed if permission is granted to the 280,000 tonne hazardous and household waste incinerators.
It points out that the incinerator is within one kilometre of a European-Union designated Special Protection Area (SPA) which could be adversely affected by emissions from the incinerators. It also said that the area has more planned areas of conservation including Rostellan and Monkstown Creek.
The department warns there is also a potential risk to flora and fauna in the wider harbour area — including damage to waterbirds from mercury poisoning.
A spokesman for the department, headed by Green Minister John Gormley, last night said the submission was an objection per se.
"The minister hasn’t objected to the proposal as he is precluded by law from doing so. We have simply made comments on the proposal in the context of the possible impacts on any sensitive areas in the vicinity of the facility," he said.
A total of 284 submissions were lodged with An Bord Pleanála earlier this month, under the Strategic Infrastructure Act, objecting to the controversial incinerators.
The objectors are seeking an oral hearing on Indaver’s planned development but it’s not yet known if this request will be complied with. The board could just give a green or red light to the development, without further consultation. They have stated that they want to make a final decision, either way, by mid-June.
Indaver say the incinerators are "must-have" for this country if we want to avoid hefty EU levies for sending too much waste to landfill. A planning application for a 100,000-tonne incinerator was first lodged seven years ago but by the time the planning appeal process had run its course, the original permission had expired. The second request for planning permission was made via An Bord Pleanála as the Strategic Infrastructure Act came into force in the meantime.
Objections were received from the IFA, the Irish Midwives Association, Cobh Doctors Association, East Cork Tourism, local primary and secondary schools, local school boards of management, the Allen family at Ballymaloe House and Monkstown Bay Sailing Club. Local Labour, Fine Gael and Green party TDs and councillors also objected as did Michael McGrath TD of Fianna Fáil.
Cork Harbour for a Safe Environment (CHASE) spokeswoman Linda Fitzpatrick said the group were heartened by the level of objections and that it was much higher than they had expected.
"We were delighted to the see the minister and the department objecting as his predecessors Ministers Roche, Cullen and Dempsey wouldn’t even meet us. We are disgusted however that local people had to pay over e17,500 in total to once again make their views known," she said.
Commenting on the submissions received, an Indaver spokesperson said that many of the objections received by An Bord Pleanála were repetitive in nature.
"Ireland and Cork needs this infrastructure — our waste mountain and economy demands it," said Jane Hennessey.
CHASE have fought the planned incinerator for nearly seven years on the grounds that "the site is the wrong site" for physical reasons and that the local population will suffer adverse health consequences from dioxin emissions.
They say it flouts 13 of 14 World Health Organisation guidelines for locating incinerators including it being on a flood plain and just metres from population centres. It is also an area at risk of coastal erosion.
Irish Examiner
www.buckplanning.ie
Tuesday, 24 February 2009
Bill for 'defects' in 700 homes could be €60m
ONE of the country's biggest developers has told a court he could be facing €60m of compensation claims from as many as 759 potential lawsuits over alleged building defects.
Menolly Homes, which is owned by developer Seamus Ross, is seeking an "unusual" court order granting him protection from claims for compensation and repair works.
Hundreds of homeowners claim their walls and floors are "heaving and cracking" because of allegedly defective quarrying material used to build their houses.
The mammoth court battle between Menolly Homes and the Lagan Group, who provided infill used to build houses in three estates in north Dublin, is being watched by hundreds of households, many of whom are poised to sue over "serious damage" to their homes.
The proceedings have been brought by four construction companies -- Hansfield Developments, Viking Construction, Menolly Properties and Menolly Homes -- against three companies in the Lagan group --Irish Asphalt Limited, Lagan Holdings Ltd and Lagan Construciton Ltd. The court order sought by Menolly Homes and related companies arises from alleged structural defects in houses on three estates, Drynam Hall in Kinsealy, Beaupark in Clongriffin and Myrtle in Baldoyle.
In the proceedings it is claimed that aggregate infill bought from Irish Asphalt Limited (IAL) was used in the construction of all three estates and was also used under common areas such as footpaths and roads. It is alleged to have contained unacceptable excessive levels of pyrite. The infill used by Menolly was sourced from Bay Lane, a Lagan-owned quarry near Kilshane in Dublin, but IAL rejects claims that defects in houses were caused by its quarrying material.
"The only common denominator, the only constant feature in the damaged houses is the presence of Bay Lane material," Brian O'Moore, Senior Counsel for Menolly Homes told the Commercial Court yesterday.
Mr O'Moore also said that "there was something quite rotten" in the development of the Bay Lane quarry and said that a former executive at Irish Alsphalt, would say in evidence that the board of the Lagan Group was informed that the aggregate material was not fit for use. It is also claimed that in the course of applying for planning permission for the quarry, one of IAL's own geology and soils experts had data on aggregate testing conducted by Lagan witheld from him.
Professor Geoffrey Walton, who will not give evidence, is alleged to have claimed in a letter that he was advised that Lagan was not willing to disclose certain findings because of "indiscreet competitors".
Prior to problems emerging in 2005, Menolly Homes built more than 14,000 houses under the HomeBond scheme, which provides structural defect cover for new homes. Two experts were yesterday sworn in as assessors to assist the presiding judge, Mr Justice Paul Gilligan.
Dearbhail McDonald Legal Editor
Irish Independent
www.buckplanning.ie
Menolly Homes, which is owned by developer Seamus Ross, is seeking an "unusual" court order granting him protection from claims for compensation and repair works.
Hundreds of homeowners claim their walls and floors are "heaving and cracking" because of allegedly defective quarrying material used to build their houses.
The mammoth court battle between Menolly Homes and the Lagan Group, who provided infill used to build houses in three estates in north Dublin, is being watched by hundreds of households, many of whom are poised to sue over "serious damage" to their homes.
The proceedings have been brought by four construction companies -- Hansfield Developments, Viking Construction, Menolly Properties and Menolly Homes -- against three companies in the Lagan group --Irish Asphalt Limited, Lagan Holdings Ltd and Lagan Construciton Ltd. The court order sought by Menolly Homes and related companies arises from alleged structural defects in houses on three estates, Drynam Hall in Kinsealy, Beaupark in Clongriffin and Myrtle in Baldoyle.
In the proceedings it is claimed that aggregate infill bought from Irish Asphalt Limited (IAL) was used in the construction of all three estates and was also used under common areas such as footpaths and roads. It is alleged to have contained unacceptable excessive levels of pyrite. The infill used by Menolly was sourced from Bay Lane, a Lagan-owned quarry near Kilshane in Dublin, but IAL rejects claims that defects in houses were caused by its quarrying material.
"The only common denominator, the only constant feature in the damaged houses is the presence of Bay Lane material," Brian O'Moore, Senior Counsel for Menolly Homes told the Commercial Court yesterday.
Mr O'Moore also said that "there was something quite rotten" in the development of the Bay Lane quarry and said that a former executive at Irish Alsphalt, would say in evidence that the board of the Lagan Group was informed that the aggregate material was not fit for use. It is also claimed that in the course of applying for planning permission for the quarry, one of IAL's own geology and soils experts had data on aggregate testing conducted by Lagan witheld from him.
Professor Geoffrey Walton, who will not give evidence, is alleged to have claimed in a letter that he was advised that Lagan was not willing to disclose certain findings because of "indiscreet competitors".
Prior to problems emerging in 2005, Menolly Homes built more than 14,000 houses under the HomeBond scheme, which provides structural defect cover for new homes. Two experts were yesterday sworn in as assessors to assist the presiding judge, Mr Justice Paul Gilligan.
Dearbhail McDonald Legal Editor
Irish Independent
www.buckplanning.ie
Owners subsidising developers, says council
APARTMENT OWNERS are being forced to subsidise developers who refuse to pay property management fees for their unsold units, Dublin City Council has said.
Management companies were collapsing and individual apartment owners were facing spiralling property management costs because of the failure of developers to pay fees for apartments they have been unable to sell.
The problem was worsening, the council said, because of the increasing numbers of unsold units in new developments, and because of a lack of legislation covering the area.
In some cases, developers had taken advantage of the legislative vacuum to write discriminatory clauses into the legal documents signed by purchasers, exempting the developer from paying management charges on unsold units. In others, the developers were simply refusing to pay, the council said.
One developer of a large complex stopped work at Christmas, leaving three blocks of apartments unfinished. One-quarter of the apartments in the finished blocks remained unsold. The developer is not paying the development charge for the unsold units and the owners of the remaining apartments are expected to pay the full charge while living in an unfinished complex.
“Developers are behaving like feudal lords. The odds are stacked against the owner,” said Evelyn Hanlon, senior executive officer with the council’s housing division.
“The people occupying are having to pay for the whole of the complex. If there are 100 apartments but only 70 occupied, the whole fee remains the same but it’s borne by fewer people,” she said.
In recent years, apartment owners had begun to accept management companies were necessary to ensure repairs took place and common areas were looked after, Ms Hanlon said.
However, the economic downturn made people more reluctant to pay charges, particularly when they were left living in unfinished estates or when they perceived they were being asked to pay more than their fair share.
A further problem was that developers were excluding owners from having a role in management companies through legal contracts stating that control of the management company would not be handed over until the entire estate was finished and sold.
There were cases where owners were refused permission to attend the management company agm by the developer, Ms Hanlon said.
In 2006, the then minister for justice Michael McDowell launched a consultation process on multi-unit development.
Last June, the Law Reform Commission’s report recommending the introduction of legislation for the area was published, but Ms Hanlon said there has been no information on when a Bill will be published.
“There is no legislation supporting apartment dwellers and it is making living in apartments unsustainable,” Councillor Kevin Humphreys (Lab) said.
If the property management companies were allowed to collapse, people would be left without basic services, said Councillor Seán Kenny (Lab).
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Management companies were collapsing and individual apartment owners were facing spiralling property management costs because of the failure of developers to pay fees for apartments they have been unable to sell.
The problem was worsening, the council said, because of the increasing numbers of unsold units in new developments, and because of a lack of legislation covering the area.
In some cases, developers had taken advantage of the legislative vacuum to write discriminatory clauses into the legal documents signed by purchasers, exempting the developer from paying management charges on unsold units. In others, the developers were simply refusing to pay, the council said.
One developer of a large complex stopped work at Christmas, leaving three blocks of apartments unfinished. One-quarter of the apartments in the finished blocks remained unsold. The developer is not paying the development charge for the unsold units and the owners of the remaining apartments are expected to pay the full charge while living in an unfinished complex.
“Developers are behaving like feudal lords. The odds are stacked against the owner,” said Evelyn Hanlon, senior executive officer with the council’s housing division.
“The people occupying are having to pay for the whole of the complex. If there are 100 apartments but only 70 occupied, the whole fee remains the same but it’s borne by fewer people,” she said.
In recent years, apartment owners had begun to accept management companies were necessary to ensure repairs took place and common areas were looked after, Ms Hanlon said.
However, the economic downturn made people more reluctant to pay charges, particularly when they were left living in unfinished estates or when they perceived they were being asked to pay more than their fair share.
A further problem was that developers were excluding owners from having a role in management companies through legal contracts stating that control of the management company would not be handed over until the entire estate was finished and sold.
There were cases where owners were refused permission to attend the management company agm by the developer, Ms Hanlon said.
In 2006, the then minister for justice Michael McDowell launched a consultation process on multi-unit development.
Last June, the Law Reform Commission’s report recommending the introduction of legislation for the area was published, but Ms Hanlon said there has been no information on when a Bill will be published.
“There is no legislation supporting apartment dwellers and it is making living in apartments unsustainable,” Councillor Kevin Humphreys (Lab) said.
If the property management companies were allowed to collapse, people would be left without basic services, said Councillor Seán Kenny (Lab).
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Monday, 23 February 2009
Gormley seeks solution to Fermoy weir row
MINISTER for the Environment John Gormley has pledged to try and find a solution to the row over State plans to alter the river Blackwater’s weir in Fermoy, Co Cork.
Mr Gormley has promised to discuss the issue with his Cabinet colleague, Minister for Natural Resources Eamon Ryan and his junior counterpart, Seán Power.
Mr Ryan’s department plans to replace the weir on the river Blackwater with a rock-ramp fish pass for returning wild salmon.
The work will coincide with implementation of a 32 million flood plan for Fermoy by the Office of Public Works, according to the department.
However, Fermoy Rowing Club, which is marking its 125th anniversary this year, claims the weir only needs to be repaired.
An engineer’s report which the club commissioned suggested the cheaper and more effective solution would be to repair the weir and install a second fish pass. The club says that a rock-ramp pass would affect river levels and threaten the club’s existence.
“There has been a weir on the Blackwater in Fermoy since 1160,” Fermoy Rowing Club secretary Donal Buckley said.
“Thomas Cromwell recorded it in his 1530s inventory of monasteries for Henry VIII. The Scottish entrepreneur John Anderson built the modern town around the millrace and the bridge.” He says that the local triathlon club, sub-aqua club, University Canoe Club, other kayakers and swimmers would be affected negatively, as the increased flow could suck them on to the rock pass.
Mr Gormley was met with a protest over the weir issue last Friday evening in Fermoy.
A meeting was subsequently held between the Minister and Mr Buckley, facilitated by Green Party local election candidate Adam Douglas – at which Mr Gormley promised to try and seek a resolution. Mr Ryan’s department told The Irish Times late last year that the weir was currently in breach of the EU Habitats Directive as it was preventing salmon from migrating.
Mr Buckley has challenged this claim. He says that information received by the rowing club from the European Commission by MEP Kathy Sinnott indicates that a case, involving a complaint about the weir lodged in 2003, was now “closed” as the Government was dealing with the issue.
A spokeswoman for Mr Ryan’s department said that Mr Power had met with Fermoy town council officials and rowing club representatives.
The town council will review the department’s proposals for the weir, or come up with an alternative which would improve the fish pass and maintaining the amenity for users, the spokeswoman said.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Mr Gormley has promised to discuss the issue with his Cabinet colleague, Minister for Natural Resources Eamon Ryan and his junior counterpart, Seán Power.
Mr Ryan’s department plans to replace the weir on the river Blackwater with a rock-ramp fish pass for returning wild salmon.
The work will coincide with implementation of a 32 million flood plan for Fermoy by the Office of Public Works, according to the department.
However, Fermoy Rowing Club, which is marking its 125th anniversary this year, claims the weir only needs to be repaired.
An engineer’s report which the club commissioned suggested the cheaper and more effective solution would be to repair the weir and install a second fish pass. The club says that a rock-ramp pass would affect river levels and threaten the club’s existence.
“There has been a weir on the Blackwater in Fermoy since 1160,” Fermoy Rowing Club secretary Donal Buckley said.
“Thomas Cromwell recorded it in his 1530s inventory of monasteries for Henry VIII. The Scottish entrepreneur John Anderson built the modern town around the millrace and the bridge.” He says that the local triathlon club, sub-aqua club, University Canoe Club, other kayakers and swimmers would be affected negatively, as the increased flow could suck them on to the rock pass.
Mr Gormley was met with a protest over the weir issue last Friday evening in Fermoy.
A meeting was subsequently held between the Minister and Mr Buckley, facilitated by Green Party local election candidate Adam Douglas – at which Mr Gormley promised to try and seek a resolution. Mr Ryan’s department told The Irish Times late last year that the weir was currently in breach of the EU Habitats Directive as it was preventing salmon from migrating.
Mr Buckley has challenged this claim. He says that information received by the rowing club from the European Commission by MEP Kathy Sinnott indicates that a case, involving a complaint about the weir lodged in 2003, was now “closed” as the Government was dealing with the issue.
A spokeswoman for Mr Ryan’s department said that Mr Power had met with Fermoy town council officials and rowing club representatives.
The town council will review the department’s proposals for the weir, or come up with an alternative which would improve the fish pass and maintaining the amenity for users, the spokeswoman said.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Heritage-project grants of €4m announced
Grants worth €4.1 million for heritage-related projects were announced today. More than 540 heritage projects nationwide will receive funding, under the Heritage Council’s 2009 Grants Programme, which aims to assist in the management of the State’s heritage.
Projects that will receive funding, details of which was announced by Heritage Council chief executive, Michael Starrett, include conservation and rebinding of the four earliest minute books held by the GAA, the reestablishment of viable breeding populations of white-tailed sea eagles in southwest Ireland and of the red kite across Ireland, and a survey of basking sharks in Irish waters.
Other recipients of heritage grants will be a study of the Travelling community’s cultural heritage in Cork and the restoration and re-siting of a former Lagan canal barge in Armagh.
Speaking today, Mr Starrett said: “Heritage in Ireland is not a luxury but essential to our quality of life and sustainable economy. . . . At a time of global economic crisis, it is timely to remember how cost effective and strategic a small spend on our heritage can be.”
This year has seen an increase in the range of applications for funding by 20 per cent, with many smaller and community led projects receiving funding, the Heritage Council said.
The Heritage Council is the statutory body charged with identifying, protecting, preserving and enhancing Ireland’s national heritage.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Projects that will receive funding, details of which was announced by Heritage Council chief executive, Michael Starrett, include conservation and rebinding of the four earliest minute books held by the GAA, the reestablishment of viable breeding populations of white-tailed sea eagles in southwest Ireland and of the red kite across Ireland, and a survey of basking sharks in Irish waters.
Other recipients of heritage grants will be a study of the Travelling community’s cultural heritage in Cork and the restoration and re-siting of a former Lagan canal barge in Armagh.
Speaking today, Mr Starrett said: “Heritage in Ireland is not a luxury but essential to our quality of life and sustainable economy. . . . At a time of global economic crisis, it is timely to remember how cost effective and strategic a small spend on our heritage can be.”
This year has seen an increase in the range of applications for funding by 20 per cent, with many smaller and community led projects receiving funding, the Heritage Council said.
The Heritage Council is the statutory body charged with identifying, protecting, preserving and enhancing Ireland’s national heritage.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Ireland’s only cable car to be replaced 40 years on
IRELAND’S only cable car is set to be replaced next month — exactly 40 years on from when it was first installed to link an island off the south-west coast to the mainland.
The new e30,000 car will replace one that was set up in 1969 to provide Dursey Island’s population with an alternative to the sometimes treacherous boat crossing of the channel, which has extremely strong and dangerous currents.
Cork County Council had the cable car built by a firm in Limerick.
But as there was no company in this country capable of galvanising such a large object, it had to be sent to England.
It is now back in Dursey waiting to be installed.
Ted Murphy, a senior executive engineer with the county council, said good weather would be needed to complete the project.
"We hope to install it next month. We will be checking with Met Éireann to find a good weather window. It will take about a week because we will have to take the old one down," Mr Murphy said.
When the cable car is out of action, boats will be used to ferry Dursey folk on and off the island.
In the 1800s there were hundreds of people living on the island, but the population has dwindled to less than 10.
However, there are a number of holiday homes on the island — which is 6.5km long and 1.5km wide — and visitors swell the population at weekends and during the summer.
Paul Culleton, the council’s senior technician, has designed a more modern, comfortable and robust cable car.
It’s not just humans who will use it. Islanders have always insisted that the cable car be available to transport animals and since the service began many cattle have crossed over, dangling 219 metres over Dursey Sound.
"It was a dilemma to design a more comfortable cable car which still has to be robust enough to deal with animals," Mr Murphy said.
The cable car operates 365 days a year by local man Paddy Sheehan.
"We have trained up other people to operate the system when he’s away on holidays," Mr Murphy added.
Irish Examiner
www.buckplanning.ie
The new e30,000 car will replace one that was set up in 1969 to provide Dursey Island’s population with an alternative to the sometimes treacherous boat crossing of the channel, which has extremely strong and dangerous currents.
Cork County Council had the cable car built by a firm in Limerick.
But as there was no company in this country capable of galvanising such a large object, it had to be sent to England.
It is now back in Dursey waiting to be installed.
Ted Murphy, a senior executive engineer with the county council, said good weather would be needed to complete the project.
"We hope to install it next month. We will be checking with Met Éireann to find a good weather window. It will take about a week because we will have to take the old one down," Mr Murphy said.
When the cable car is out of action, boats will be used to ferry Dursey folk on and off the island.
In the 1800s there were hundreds of people living on the island, but the population has dwindled to less than 10.
However, there are a number of holiday homes on the island — which is 6.5km long and 1.5km wide — and visitors swell the population at weekends and during the summer.
Paul Culleton, the council’s senior technician, has designed a more modern, comfortable and robust cable car.
It’s not just humans who will use it. Islanders have always insisted that the cable car be available to transport animals and since the service began many cattle have crossed over, dangling 219 metres over Dursey Sound.
"It was a dilemma to design a more comfortable cable car which still has to be robust enough to deal with animals," Mr Murphy said.
The cable car operates 365 days a year by local man Paddy Sheehan.
"We have trained up other people to operate the system when he’s away on holidays," Mr Murphy added.
Irish Examiner
www.buckplanning.ie
Sunday, 22 February 2009
Metro North rail bids due this week
The four consortiums vying to build the Metro North rail system in Dublin are finalising their bids and will submit them to the Railway Procurement Agency (RPA) this week. The Sunday Business Post understands that the consortiums have focused on reducing costs where possible, and that bids are expected to be in the region of €3 billion to €4 billion. Sources confirmed that the drop in property prices, and competition among subcontractors for work, had allowed them to revise costings downwards.
Sources close to the consortiums said that the technical and financial aspects of the bids had been stressed as the main points on which a decision would be made. The sources said that the government had reiterated that the project was not in danger of being scrapped.
Transport minister Noel Dempsey has said that the government supports the project, but that it must represent value for money in the current economic climate. The minister said that capital investment projects that generated employment in the construction sector were a priority, and that the rail project should generate several hundred jobs.
However, raising private capital to fund the 17-kilometre link between the city centre and Swords is likely to be challenging for the consortiums. This is expected to be a significant factor in the RPA’s selection of the final offer over the coming months.
The RPA is expected to examine the bids over the next month, before meeting the individual consortiums for briefings and questions on their submissions.The bidders will be given time to elaborate on technical details or variations in their project designs.
The four consortiums are Dublin Express Link, which includes SIAC,H SBC and French Metro operators Keolis; Cathro Consortium,which includes Luas operator Veolia and Siemens; Metro Express, which includes AIB, Transdev and Sisk; and the CelticMetro Group,wh ich is composed of foreign operators and headed by Tokyo-based investment groupMitsui.
Sunday Business Post
www.buckplanning.ie
Sources close to the consortiums said that the technical and financial aspects of the bids had been stressed as the main points on which a decision would be made. The sources said that the government had reiterated that the project was not in danger of being scrapped.
Transport minister Noel Dempsey has said that the government supports the project, but that it must represent value for money in the current economic climate. The minister said that capital investment projects that generated employment in the construction sector were a priority, and that the rail project should generate several hundred jobs.
However, raising private capital to fund the 17-kilometre link between the city centre and Swords is likely to be challenging for the consortiums. This is expected to be a significant factor in the RPA’s selection of the final offer over the coming months.
The RPA is expected to examine the bids over the next month, before meeting the individual consortiums for briefings and questions on their submissions.The bidders will be given time to elaborate on technical details or variations in their project designs.
The four consortiums are Dublin Express Link, which includes SIAC,H SBC and French Metro operators Keolis; Cathro Consortium,which includes Luas operator Veolia and Siemens; Metro Express, which includes AIB, Transdev and Sisk; and the CelticMetro Group,wh ich is composed of foreign operators and headed by Tokyo-based investment groupMitsui.
Sunday Business Post
www.buckplanning.ie
Green light for €125m shopping development in Carlow
Developer Eamon Duignan and his business partners have been given the go-ahead for a €125m shopping centre in Carlow that is expected to create 400 jobs during the construction phase. The scheme will involve the redevelopment of the Penneys site in the town, and the low-cost clothing retailer is to operate a shop at the redeveloped centre.
Planning was granted for the development despite the fact that An Bord Pleanala's inspector recommended it be refused on the basis that it would "be prejudicial to public health".
However, the board overruled that recommendation, stating that the site was zoned own-centre and therefore it was an appropriate form of development.
"In deciding not to accept the inspector's recommendation to refuse permission, the board considered
that the proposed development was in line with the policies set out in the current Carlow Town Development Plan, that it would
not be appropriate to
refuse permission for reasons of prematurity and that it would have a positive impact overall on the environment of Hanover Park," it stated.
Duignan will now be able to construct more than 62,000 square metres of shops, offices and apartments on the site of nearly seven acres. DTZ Sherry FitzGerald will let the new centre on behalf of the developer who has numerous retail interests.
Sunday Tribune
www.buckplanning.ie
Planning was granted for the development despite the fact that An Bord Pleanala's inspector recommended it be refused on the basis that it would "be prejudicial to public health".
However, the board overruled that recommendation, stating that the site was zoned own-centre and therefore it was an appropriate form of development.
"In deciding not to accept the inspector's recommendation to refuse permission, the board considered
that the proposed development was in line with the policies set out in the current Carlow Town Development Plan, that it would
not be appropriate to
refuse permission for reasons of prematurity and that it would have a positive impact overall on the environment of Hanover Park," it stated.
Duignan will now be able to construct more than 62,000 square metres of shops, offices and apartments on the site of nearly seven acres. DTZ Sherry FitzGerald will let the new centre on behalf of the developer who has numerous retail interests.
Sunday Tribune
www.buckplanning.ie
Campaigners urges M3 workers to strike
CAMPAIGNERS seeking to have a controversial motorway rerouted have called on construction workers involved in the project to go on strike. Tarawatch urged builders working on the M3 motorway project to take industrial action over the 10% pay cut proposed by the Construction Industry Federation (CIF). They said it was the flagship project for the CIF and that the move could also help focus attention on the ongoing conservation campaign.
Sunday Tribune
www.buckplanning.ie
Sunday Tribune
www.buckplanning.ie
Friday, 20 February 2009
Survey plans for old village
Detailed surveys are to be carried out on the old village on the Great Blasket Island after the State bought land there for €2m.
Building conservation officers will carry out a survey with a view to stabilising the buildings, the Office of Public Works said yesterday.
Irish Independent
www.buckplanning.ie
Building conservation officers will carry out a survey with a view to stabilising the buildings, the Office of Public Works said yesterday.
Irish Independent
www.buckplanning.ie
Incinerator plan scrapped
An incinerator planned for a power plant is to be redeveloped into a natural gas-fired station instead.
The plans for the incinerator at the Great Island Power Plant in South Wexford have been quashed with news that €250m is to be spent on redeveloping it into a natural gas-fired turbine.
Irish Independent
www.buckplanning.ie
The plans for the incinerator at the Great Island Power Plant in South Wexford have been quashed with news that €250m is to be spent on redeveloping it into a natural gas-fired turbine.
Irish Independent
www.buckplanning.ie
Dunne lodges €1m in 'unpaid fees' case
DEVELOPER Sean Dunne is to lodge €1m in court pending the outcome of a legal action against him by a firm of estate agents over €1.5m in alleged unpaid fees.
CB Richard Ellis (CBRE) initiated proceedings against Mr Dunne in the Commercial Court last month and yesterday the judge was told the case would go to a hearing and Mr Dunne would lodge €1m in court within 21 days along with a defence and counter-claim.
Late last year, the High Court found that an €83m office block development on Dublin's north quays should not have been built because the Dublin Docklands Development Authority had accepted land from the developer as part of a deal which led to the building's go-ahead.
CBRE, with registered offices at Connaught House, Burlington Road, Dublin, is claiming the fees in relation to a commercial property transaction involving the sale of premises at Sir John Rogerson's Quay, Dublin, and the part exchange of that with another property -- Hume House, at Pembroke Road.
Last month, the court was told Mr Dunne was contending the alleged liability was not his but of one of his companies, Mountbrook Homes Ltd. CBRE claims the agreement was made with Mr Dunne personally.
CBRE director Willie Dowling said the aspect of his company's fee in dispute related to an investment fee agreed at 0.75pc of the sale price, which amounted to €1.44m plus VAT. He later negotiated a reduction of that fee on a goodwill basis to €1.25m, plus VAT (€1.52m).
In November last year, Mr Dunne disputed the level of fee which was "entirely at odds" with his previous position.
The case was adjourned to April.
Tim Healy and Paul Melia
Irish Independent
www.buckplanning.ie
CB Richard Ellis (CBRE) initiated proceedings against Mr Dunne in the Commercial Court last month and yesterday the judge was told the case would go to a hearing and Mr Dunne would lodge €1m in court within 21 days along with a defence and counter-claim.
Late last year, the High Court found that an €83m office block development on Dublin's north quays should not have been built because the Dublin Docklands Development Authority had accepted land from the developer as part of a deal which led to the building's go-ahead.
CBRE, with registered offices at Connaught House, Burlington Road, Dublin, is claiming the fees in relation to a commercial property transaction involving the sale of premises at Sir John Rogerson's Quay, Dublin, and the part exchange of that with another property -- Hume House, at Pembroke Road.
Last month, the court was told Mr Dunne was contending the alleged liability was not his but of one of his companies, Mountbrook Homes Ltd. CBRE claims the agreement was made with Mr Dunne personally.
CBRE director Willie Dowling said the aspect of his company's fee in dispute related to an investment fee agreed at 0.75pc of the sale price, which amounted to €1.44m plus VAT. He later negotiated a reduction of that fee on a goodwill basis to €1.25m, plus VAT (€1.52m).
In November last year, Mr Dunne disputed the level of fee which was "entirely at odds" with his previous position.
The case was adjourned to April.
Tim Healy and Paul Melia
Irish Independent
www.buckplanning.ie
Developers owe capital's council almost €25m
DUBLIN City Council is owed almost €25m in development levies from builders who cannot afford to pay up.
And yesterday it emerged that another €118m in levies is under threat because some developments already granted planning permission might not go ahead. The money is paid by developers as part of their planning permission after building work commences and is earmarked to pay for roads, water, parks, sewerage and other essential services.
But city councillors on the Finance Special Policy Committee will be told next week that officials are chasing developers for €25m, and that budgets will have to be amended to take account of the falling revenue.
Development levies will pay for 8.1pc of the council's capital projects budget this year, which totals €345.5m. It expects levies to pay for almost €28m worth of projects, some of which could be under threat.
Plans were also made to spend the €118m due in levies, but after the economic downturn put hundreds of projects on hold the money is not being paid over.
"Some of it is owed for developments already done, and the rest is for developments that might not proceed," Labour councillor Dermot Lacey said.
"There is a problem about collection. There's a fault line in the linking of income to the council with the granting of permissions.
Funding
"There is going to be enormous problems in the city council over the next couple of years. The real problem is the repayments for work that's already under way. There's a real problem for funding of local authorities, and they're huge issues."
The move comes as figures supplied to councillors show that the amount being generated through levies has dramatically fallen in the last year.
Figures obtained by Fine Gael councillor Naoise O Muiri show that the levies peaked at a total of €68m in 2007, up from €57m in 2006 and €63m in 2005.
But last year the amount dropped to just €30m, and city management expect the amount to fall to €25m this year.
Paul Melia
Irish Independent
www.buckplanning.ie
And yesterday it emerged that another €118m in levies is under threat because some developments already granted planning permission might not go ahead. The money is paid by developers as part of their planning permission after building work commences and is earmarked to pay for roads, water, parks, sewerage and other essential services.
But city councillors on the Finance Special Policy Committee will be told next week that officials are chasing developers for €25m, and that budgets will have to be amended to take account of the falling revenue.
Development levies will pay for 8.1pc of the council's capital projects budget this year, which totals €345.5m. It expects levies to pay for almost €28m worth of projects, some of which could be under threat.
Plans were also made to spend the €118m due in levies, but after the economic downturn put hundreds of projects on hold the money is not being paid over.
"Some of it is owed for developments already done, and the rest is for developments that might not proceed," Labour councillor Dermot Lacey said.
"There is a problem about collection. There's a fault line in the linking of income to the council with the granting of permissions.
Funding
"There is going to be enormous problems in the city council over the next couple of years. The real problem is the repayments for work that's already under way. There's a real problem for funding of local authorities, and they're huge issues."
The move comes as figures supplied to councillors show that the amount being generated through levies has dramatically fallen in the last year.
Figures obtained by Fine Gael councillor Naoise O Muiri show that the levies peaked at a total of €68m in 2007, up from €57m in 2006 and €63m in 2005.
But last year the amount dropped to just €30m, and city management expect the amount to fall to €25m this year.
Paul Melia
Irish Independent
www.buckplanning.ie
Gormley faces protest over plan to ‘vandalise’ weir
MINISTER for the Environment John Gormley is expected to face a large protest when he visits a town in North Cork later today.
Protesters say it is ironic that John Gormley will launch a document entitled The Heritage of North Cork, while his junior minister, Eamonn Ryan, is intent on semi-demolishing a piece of history in the locality.
The 12th-century weir in Fermoy is at the centre of a major row as plans to lower it and introduce new fish runs are being vehemently opposed by a number of people.
Members of Fermoy Rowing Club, in particular, are solidly opposed to the plan, saying it will lower the water so much it will sound the death knell of rowing in the town, which has been going on for the past 125 years.
They are planning a protest outside the local town council offices for 4.20pm today, to coincide with Mr Gormley’s launch of the heritage document.
A request by club members for a meeting has been turned down by Mr Gormley, who said it would be inappropriate.
"There has been a weir on the Blackwater in Fermoy since 1160. John Anderson built the modern town around the millrace and the bridge. It is critical that Mr Gormley understands that," said Fermoy Rowing Club secretary Donal O’Keeffe. "His colleague in Government, Minister Eamonn Ryan. cannot be allowed to destroy the weir and our rowing club in a costly, needless and reckless act of vandalism."
Mr O’Keeffe said there is a safer, cheaper and better alternative involving repairing the weir and, if necessary, adding new fish passes.
For details of the campaign to save the weir see www.savefermoyweir.com
Mr Gormley will visit Cork, Ballincollig, Kinsale and Fermoy today with Green Party local election candidates.
Irish Examiner
www.buckplanning.ie
Protesters say it is ironic that John Gormley will launch a document entitled The Heritage of North Cork, while his junior minister, Eamonn Ryan, is intent on semi-demolishing a piece of history in the locality.
The 12th-century weir in Fermoy is at the centre of a major row as plans to lower it and introduce new fish runs are being vehemently opposed by a number of people.
Members of Fermoy Rowing Club, in particular, are solidly opposed to the plan, saying it will lower the water so much it will sound the death knell of rowing in the town, which has been going on for the past 125 years.
They are planning a protest outside the local town council offices for 4.20pm today, to coincide with Mr Gormley’s launch of the heritage document.
A request by club members for a meeting has been turned down by Mr Gormley, who said it would be inappropriate.
"There has been a weir on the Blackwater in Fermoy since 1160. John Anderson built the modern town around the millrace and the bridge. It is critical that Mr Gormley understands that," said Fermoy Rowing Club secretary Donal O’Keeffe. "His colleague in Government, Minister Eamonn Ryan. cannot be allowed to destroy the weir and our rowing club in a costly, needless and reckless act of vandalism."
Mr O’Keeffe said there is a safer, cheaper and better alternative involving repairing the weir and, if necessary, adding new fish passes.
For details of the campaign to save the weir see www.savefermoyweir.com
Mr Gormley will visit Cork, Ballincollig, Kinsale and Fermoy today with Green Party local election candidates.
Irish Examiner
www.buckplanning.ie
Bright ideas sought for docklands civic space
DOES HARRY CROSBIE think things are going to turn militant? Even political rallies are to be catered for in the new “civic and public space” being planned by Crosbie for a site behind the O2 Arena (formerly the Point Theatre) in Dublin’s docklands.
A design competition is being organised in collaboration with the RIAI for the space, which is to host “free rock, jazz and trad shows as well as drama, monster céilís and dances, political rallies and events of every kind, including a large weekly produce market”.
According to Crosbie, Dublin city planners are “hugely enthusiastic” about the proposals, which may also include a “giant fireplace” for children to sit around in winter – though no doubt the public liability implications of such an attraction will have to be considered.
The irrepressible impresario is convinced that, in these deeply recessionary times, people want more entertainment to take their minds off the bleak news of banking crises, job losses and the property collapse – which is why bookings at the O2 are so strong.
However, one of the casualties of the recession is Crosbie’s plan to build a 40-storey tower at the Point, designed by Scott Tallon Walker; it has been put on hold. Also in grave doubt is Dunnes Stores’ original plan to become the anchor tenant for the Point Village.
In the meantime, expressions of interest are being invited from architects for the commission to design the Point Square (which the Dunnes Stores outlet was to front onto). Contact John Graby, director, RIAI, 8 Merrion Square, Dublin 2.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
A design competition is being organised in collaboration with the RIAI for the space, which is to host “free rock, jazz and trad shows as well as drama, monster céilís and dances, political rallies and events of every kind, including a large weekly produce market”.
According to Crosbie, Dublin city planners are “hugely enthusiastic” about the proposals, which may also include a “giant fireplace” for children to sit around in winter – though no doubt the public liability implications of such an attraction will have to be considered.
The irrepressible impresario is convinced that, in these deeply recessionary times, people want more entertainment to take their minds off the bleak news of banking crises, job losses and the property collapse – which is why bookings at the O2 are so strong.
However, one of the casualties of the recession is Crosbie’s plan to build a 40-storey tower at the Point, designed by Scott Tallon Walker; it has been put on hold. Also in grave doubt is Dunnes Stores’ original plan to become the anchor tenant for the Point Village.
In the meantime, expressions of interest are being invited from architects for the commission to design the Point Square (which the Dunnes Stores outlet was to front onto). Contact John Graby, director, RIAI, 8 Merrion Square, Dublin 2.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Tourism plan for Killruddery
PROPOSALS TO develop the Killruddery estate on the outskirts of Bray, Co Wicklow, as a 250,000 visitor-a-year tourist attraction have been endorsed by the county’s senior planners.
The Elizabethan Revival house, which dates from 1618, has been used in the making of The Tudors, Far and Away and Becoming Jane. Now it’s set to be developed with shops, cafés and homes.
The proposal from the estate’s owners, the Brabazon family, Earls of Meath, would result in an attraction on the scale of Killruddery’s near neighbour, Powerscourt House, which already sees visitor numbers in the order of a quarter of a million per year.
Envisaged is the rezoning of part of the demesne around the house and gardens, including courtyards and outbuildings, for tourism use.
The tourism use would provide for a craft centre, restaurants/tea rooms and craft factory outlets as well as shops, a farmers’ market and equestrian centre, among others.
The rezoning proposal also includes a residential development on an eight-hectare site close to the Bray Southern Cross Road.
Killruddery demesne encompasses the valley between the Little Sugar Loaf and Bray Head – both of which are candidates for Special Area Amenity orders – and is a spectacular setting.
The gardens are considered the finest surviving example in Ireland of a 17th century formal garden.
The approach to the house leads through a French-style 18th century wrought iron gate into a granite forecourt designed by Daniel Robertson, the architect principally responsible for the layout of the gardens at Powerscourt.
The rezoning proposals were recommended by Wicklow’s senior planners in response to submissions on the forthcoming Bray Environs Local Area Plan .
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
The Elizabethan Revival house, which dates from 1618, has been used in the making of The Tudors, Far and Away and Becoming Jane. Now it’s set to be developed with shops, cafés and homes.
The proposal from the estate’s owners, the Brabazon family, Earls of Meath, would result in an attraction on the scale of Killruddery’s near neighbour, Powerscourt House, which already sees visitor numbers in the order of a quarter of a million per year.
Envisaged is the rezoning of part of the demesne around the house and gardens, including courtyards and outbuildings, for tourism use.
The tourism use would provide for a craft centre, restaurants/tea rooms and craft factory outlets as well as shops, a farmers’ market and equestrian centre, among others.
The rezoning proposal also includes a residential development on an eight-hectare site close to the Bray Southern Cross Road.
Killruddery demesne encompasses the valley between the Little Sugar Loaf and Bray Head – both of which are candidates for Special Area Amenity orders – and is a spectacular setting.
The gardens are considered the finest surviving example in Ireland of a 17th century formal garden.
The approach to the house leads through a French-style 18th century wrought iron gate into a granite forecourt designed by Daniel Robertson, the architect principally responsible for the layout of the gardens at Powerscourt.
The rezoning proposals were recommended by Wicklow’s senior planners in response to submissions on the forthcoming Bray Environs Local Area Plan .
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Rezoning of Blackrock home 'would hit shopping centres'
DÚN LAOGHAIRE Business Association has expressed concern that a submission by businessman John Reihill to rezone lands at his 19th century listed mansion, Deepwell, in Blackrock, Co Dublin would damage existing shopping areas in the county.
Reihill, who is best known for his involvement in his family business, fuel importer and distributor Tedcastles, made the submission for consideration under the Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council’s draft development plan revision for 2010-2016.
The site at Deepwell is bounded by Blackrock Dart station and adjoins Blackrock Park. Blackrock shopping centre is to the south and Frascati shopping centre on the far side of the Blackrock bypass. Reihill is looking to change the zoning of the lands from Objective A “to protect and improve residential amenity” to objective DC “to protect, provide for and/or improve district centre facilities”.
In the proposal for rezoning to the council, submitted by town planner Tom Phillips and Associates, he says the Deepwell lands are recognised “as constituting one of the last remaining significant brownfield sites within Blackrock village”. The submission goes on to say that the rezoning of these lands offers “significant potential to enhance the overall land use mix at this strategic location at the entrance to the village”. It also appeals to the council that a protected structure on the lands “should not preclude the proposed rezoning”.
But, in a letter circulated to elected representatives in the area, Dún Laoghaire Business Association is saying that shopping areas within Dún Laoghaire Rathdown “are already under economic pressure and would be further damaged should this rezoning occur”. It estimates that the lands in question are approximately the same size as Superquinn shopping centre in Blackrock “and therefore would have a negative effect on all existing shopping centres within the county”.
Reihill’s proposal, however, points to another project the council is trying to get off the ground. Reihill’s submission says that following discussions with the Parks Department “it was agreed that the subject lands offer significant potential in the enhancement of linkages with Blackrock Park, through the progression of the Blackrock Park masterplan”.
Although the site has been occupied since the 1740s, the house at Deepwell, a protected structure on 2.6 acres, was built 100 years later. Its name was changed from Fairy Hill and the walled garden was introduced by Richard S Guinness in 1842. It now has Italianate gardens, a temple and herb garden. It’s open to the public at certain times.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Reihill, who is best known for his involvement in his family business, fuel importer and distributor Tedcastles, made the submission for consideration under the Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council’s draft development plan revision for 2010-2016.
The site at Deepwell is bounded by Blackrock Dart station and adjoins Blackrock Park. Blackrock shopping centre is to the south and Frascati shopping centre on the far side of the Blackrock bypass. Reihill is looking to change the zoning of the lands from Objective A “to protect and improve residential amenity” to objective DC “to protect, provide for and/or improve district centre facilities”.
In the proposal for rezoning to the council, submitted by town planner Tom Phillips and Associates, he says the Deepwell lands are recognised “as constituting one of the last remaining significant brownfield sites within Blackrock village”. The submission goes on to say that the rezoning of these lands offers “significant potential to enhance the overall land use mix at this strategic location at the entrance to the village”. It also appeals to the council that a protected structure on the lands “should not preclude the proposed rezoning”.
But, in a letter circulated to elected representatives in the area, Dún Laoghaire Business Association is saying that shopping areas within Dún Laoghaire Rathdown “are already under economic pressure and would be further damaged should this rezoning occur”. It estimates that the lands in question are approximately the same size as Superquinn shopping centre in Blackrock “and therefore would have a negative effect on all existing shopping centres within the county”.
Reihill’s proposal, however, points to another project the council is trying to get off the ground. Reihill’s submission says that following discussions with the Parks Department “it was agreed that the subject lands offer significant potential in the enhancement of linkages with Blackrock Park, through the progression of the Blackrock Park masterplan”.
Although the site has been occupied since the 1740s, the house at Deepwell, a protected structure on 2.6 acres, was built 100 years later. Its name was changed from Fairy Hill and the walled garden was introduced by Richard S Guinness in 1842. It now has Italianate gardens, a temple and herb garden. It’s open to the public at certain times.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Green energy sector feels chill wind of credit crunch
THE CREDIT crunch is apparently taking the wind out of the renewable energy sector’s sails.
Some analysts, and even the Government at one point, were claiming the nascent green energy industry was immune from the squeeze on business lending – that appears to be no longer the case.
Bord Gáis chief executive John Mullins noted this week that wind farm developers were having difficulty raising the cash they needed from banks to pursue their plans.
This leaves them in a bit of a bind. Most of the applications for planning and licensing of wind farms come from small operators. These are ultimately hoping to add value by getting these projects through the initial stages before selling them on to bigger players. The bigger players have the resources to deliver the goods, but may not be necessarily interested in the initial development stages, which involve applying for planning, licensing and grid connection.
The trick for smaller operators is to bring projects to a point where they are attractive to bigger operators, and then sell them on. That is likely to prove more difficult if they cannot get the cash to bring their proposed wind farms to first or second base.
However, Mullins says Bord Gáis, which is spending about €250 million on renewable energy projects, will buy wind farms at an earlier stage of their development. There may well be disadvantages in this but, on the plus side, in the current market these projects will be cheaper to buy.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Some analysts, and even the Government at one point, were claiming the nascent green energy industry was immune from the squeeze on business lending – that appears to be no longer the case.
Bord Gáis chief executive John Mullins noted this week that wind farm developers were having difficulty raising the cash they needed from banks to pursue their plans.
This leaves them in a bit of a bind. Most of the applications for planning and licensing of wind farms come from small operators. These are ultimately hoping to add value by getting these projects through the initial stages before selling them on to bigger players. The bigger players have the resources to deliver the goods, but may not be necessarily interested in the initial development stages, which involve applying for planning, licensing and grid connection.
The trick for smaller operators is to bring projects to a point where they are attractive to bigger operators, and then sell them on. That is likely to prove more difficult if they cannot get the cash to bring their proposed wind farms to first or second base.
However, Mullins says Bord Gáis, which is spending about €250 million on renewable energy projects, will buy wind farms at an earlier stage of their development. There may well be disadvantages in this but, on the plus side, in the current market these projects will be cheaper to buy.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Baths plan on Valentia refused
An organic cafe owner said he will not give up on his plans for the development of seaweed baths on the edge of the Atlantic at Valentia Island, but will try again as soon as there is an upturn in the economy, writes Anne Lucey.
Paul Duff of the Lighthouse cafe on Valentia has been refused permission by Kerry County Council to roof old stone sheds and convert them to seaweed bath houses.
The baths were considered over-development and concerns were also raised by An Taisce.
Mr Duff will not appeal the decision but has decided to “wait for the upturn”.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Paul Duff of the Lighthouse cafe on Valentia has been refused permission by Kerry County Council to roof old stone sheds and convert them to seaweed bath houses.
The baths were considered over-development and concerns were also raised by An Taisce.
Mr Duff will not appeal the decision but has decided to “wait for the upturn”.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Park plan for former dump in Wexford
An innovative 30-acre town park is planned for the site of a former dump in Co Wexford.
The park, to be located on the outskirts of Wexford town, will feature sculptures, quirky maze areas and a skateboard park, all set amid wildlife. It will be one of the only former landfill sites in the country to be converted into parkland, and will be similar in design to St Stephen’s Green.
Botanist and landscape designer Ted Walsh, who spent six months finalising the preliminary plan for the park, said a 12.8 acre landfill site (the former town dump) in Carcur has been set aside, one-third of which will be used as an active park.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
The park, to be located on the outskirts of Wexford town, will feature sculptures, quirky maze areas and a skateboard park, all set amid wildlife. It will be one of the only former landfill sites in the country to be converted into parkland, and will be similar in design to St Stephen’s Green.
Botanist and landscape designer Ted Walsh, who spent six months finalising the preliminary plan for the park, said a 12.8 acre landfill site (the former town dump) in Carcur has been set aside, one-third of which will be used as an active park.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Permission given for Kerry pipeline
AN BORD Pleanála has granted permission for the construction of a 26km underground pipeline to link the country’s first liquefied natural gas terminal at the Shannon estuary in Co Kerry to the existing natural gas network in Co Limerick.
The proposal for the €500 million regassification terminal on Shannon Development land near Tarbert has already received permission.
The applications for the terminal and the pipeline by Shannon LNG, a subsidiary of the giant US Hess corporation, were dealt with separately.
Both were fast-tracked to an Bord Pleanála under the Strategic Infrastructure Act, and an oral hearing was held in each case.
The appeals board said it had regard for the National Development Plan regarding security of energy supply and the Kerry County Development Plan in granting permission for the pipeline which will connect with the natural gas grid at Leahy’s near Foynes, Co Limerick.
The board has directed that a section of the pipe be rerouted so as not to interfere with an area of fen west of the N69 at Doonard Upper.
It has also directed that geotechnical surveys be carried out in areas of peat to be crossed by the pipe, and that “no peat be removed off site”.
The board says this is for health and safety reasons and to prevent water pollution. (The issue of soil disturbance on areas of peatland was raised during the hearing).
Some 17 conditions have been imposed by the board, including that surveys on breeding sites of badgers, otters and bats be carried out before work begins.
Archaeological monitoring of all excavations will be carried out.
The pipe will cross 20 roads, three rivers, 11 streams, farmland and forestry, and involve 72 landowners, the hearing in Listowel was told in December.
The terminal will take four years, and the pipeline will begin in the fourth year.
The route is along the southern side of the estuary to avoid interference with the ecologically-important Shannon estuary, a special protected area, said representatives of Shannon LNG. It was also the cheapest of the three routes considered.
The hearing was told wayleaves had been agreed with most landowners, and acquisitions were being sought in the case of five to six properties.
However, the main objectors’ group , Safety Before LNG, said it was challenging the decision under Section 5 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 .
It has asked the board to rule whether work associated with the terminal was or was not development.
Spokesman John McElligott said their challenge was supported by actor Pierce Brosnan, MEP Kathy Sinnott , Friends of the Irish Environment and others.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
The proposal for the €500 million regassification terminal on Shannon Development land near Tarbert has already received permission.
The applications for the terminal and the pipeline by Shannon LNG, a subsidiary of the giant US Hess corporation, were dealt with separately.
Both were fast-tracked to an Bord Pleanála under the Strategic Infrastructure Act, and an oral hearing was held in each case.
The appeals board said it had regard for the National Development Plan regarding security of energy supply and the Kerry County Development Plan in granting permission for the pipeline which will connect with the natural gas grid at Leahy’s near Foynes, Co Limerick.
The board has directed that a section of the pipe be rerouted so as not to interfere with an area of fen west of the N69 at Doonard Upper.
It has also directed that geotechnical surveys be carried out in areas of peat to be crossed by the pipe, and that “no peat be removed off site”.
The board says this is for health and safety reasons and to prevent water pollution. (The issue of soil disturbance on areas of peatland was raised during the hearing).
Some 17 conditions have been imposed by the board, including that surveys on breeding sites of badgers, otters and bats be carried out before work begins.
Archaeological monitoring of all excavations will be carried out.
The pipe will cross 20 roads, three rivers, 11 streams, farmland and forestry, and involve 72 landowners, the hearing in Listowel was told in December.
The terminal will take four years, and the pipeline will begin in the fourth year.
The route is along the southern side of the estuary to avoid interference with the ecologically-important Shannon estuary, a special protected area, said representatives of Shannon LNG. It was also the cheapest of the three routes considered.
The hearing was told wayleaves had been agreed with most landowners, and acquisitions were being sought in the case of five to six properties.
However, the main objectors’ group , Safety Before LNG, said it was challenging the decision under Section 5 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 .
It has asked the board to rule whether work associated with the terminal was or was not development.
Spokesman John McElligott said their challenge was supported by actor Pierce Brosnan, MEP Kathy Sinnott , Friends of the Irish Environment and others.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Major development in Tralee gets go-ahead
PERMISSION HAS been granted for one of the most ambitious development projects ever in Tralee, Co Kerry, involving a new shopping centre on the GAA grounds and the building of a new GAA stadium on the racecourse near the town.
An Bord Pleanála has authorised the conversion of the Austin Stack GAA ground in Tralee to a multi-storey shopping centre and granted permission for a new GAA stadium on the Ballybeggan racecourse on the outskirts of the town.
The plan, estimated at costing €100 million by local developers Séamus O’Halloran and John Casey, involved several organisations including two local authorities, Tralee Town Council, as well as the county council, the GAA and the local race company. It met with resistance from racegoers as well as town traders.
Tralee Town Council had granted permission to John Casey Project Management for the mixed-use town centre development of Austin Stack Park, but this was immediately appealed to An Bord Pleanála.
Kerry County Council had also given the go-ahead for a GAA stadium at Ballybeggan racecourse to the management company and this too had been appealed.
Yesterday the board – which held an oral hearing in Tralee into the Austin Stack development – ruled that the 38,821sq m development of the Stacks and nearby John Mitchells GAA club would not harm the town centre.
The board also noted the proximity of public transport facilities, including Tralee bus and railway stations, to the development.
In the case of Ballybeggan, it said the GAA stadium with full-size pitch and terracing and stands to accommodate 15,000 people was in accordance with the historical and long-established use of Ballybeggan as a recreational and sports facility and amenity use.
Sinn Féin said €43 million would be injected into the local economy and this would be “a lifeline to Tralee and Kerry”.
Town councillors Cathal Foley and Toiréasa Ferris said that up to 1,500 medium- and long-term jobs would be created “at a time of deep economic gloom”.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
An Bord Pleanála has authorised the conversion of the Austin Stack GAA ground in Tralee to a multi-storey shopping centre and granted permission for a new GAA stadium on the Ballybeggan racecourse on the outskirts of the town.
The plan, estimated at costing €100 million by local developers Séamus O’Halloran and John Casey, involved several organisations including two local authorities, Tralee Town Council, as well as the county council, the GAA and the local race company. It met with resistance from racegoers as well as town traders.
Tralee Town Council had granted permission to John Casey Project Management for the mixed-use town centre development of Austin Stack Park, but this was immediately appealed to An Bord Pleanála.
Kerry County Council had also given the go-ahead for a GAA stadium at Ballybeggan racecourse to the management company and this too had been appealed.
Yesterday the board – which held an oral hearing in Tralee into the Austin Stack development – ruled that the 38,821sq m development of the Stacks and nearby John Mitchells GAA club would not harm the town centre.
The board also noted the proximity of public transport facilities, including Tralee bus and railway stations, to the development.
In the case of Ballybeggan, it said the GAA stadium with full-size pitch and terracing and stands to accommodate 15,000 people was in accordance with the historical and long-established use of Ballybeggan as a recreational and sports facility and amenity use.
Sinn Féin said €43 million would be injected into the local economy and this would be “a lifeline to Tralee and Kerry”.
Town councillors Cathal Foley and Toiréasa Ferris said that up to 1,500 medium- and long-term jobs would be created “at a time of deep economic gloom”.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Councils' park-and-ride policy criticised
THE FOUR Dublin local authorities have failed to deliver park-and-ride facilities to reduce Dublin city traffic, despite having access to a €50 million fund for their development, Minister for Transport Noel Dempsey has said.
The €50 million Transport 21 fund is available to local authorities for traffic management activities, including park-and-ride facilities which allow motorists to park their cars to take public transport to the city.
In an effort to encourage their development, Mr Dempsey ring-fenced €1 million specifically for park-and-ride development in 2008 and said he was prepared to increase this funding if local authorities came forward with proposals. However, no local authority responded, the Department of Transport has said.
A larger budget of €5 million has been made available for park-and-ride development in 2009, despite there having been no uptake in 2008.
Speaking at an Oireachtas transport committee this week, Mr Dempsey expressed his exasperation at the lack of interest shown by local authorities.
“It breaks my heart that for the past four or five years money has been provided by my department under Transport 21 for park-and-ride facilities and that to say progress on it is poor does not adequately describe the situation. It is abysmal.”
Dublin City Council yesterday said it has no plans for park-and-ride facilities in the city, and that such facilities were more suitably located outside its boundaries.
Fingal County Council said it had no formal park-and-ride sites but that two council-owned sites in Balbriggan were used by commuters to park on an informal basis and a feasibility study was being conducted on the possibility of providing park-and-ride at Lissenhall, north of Swords.
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council said it was its policy to “encourage” park-and-ride. It did not have such facilities at present, but they were planned as part of the Luas extension in Carrickmines.
South Dublin County Council did not respond yesterday to queries about its facilities or plans.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
The €50 million Transport 21 fund is available to local authorities for traffic management activities, including park-and-ride facilities which allow motorists to park their cars to take public transport to the city.
In an effort to encourage their development, Mr Dempsey ring-fenced €1 million specifically for park-and-ride development in 2008 and said he was prepared to increase this funding if local authorities came forward with proposals. However, no local authority responded, the Department of Transport has said.
A larger budget of €5 million has been made available for park-and-ride development in 2009, despite there having been no uptake in 2008.
Speaking at an Oireachtas transport committee this week, Mr Dempsey expressed his exasperation at the lack of interest shown by local authorities.
“It breaks my heart that for the past four or five years money has been provided by my department under Transport 21 for park-and-ride facilities and that to say progress on it is poor does not adequately describe the situation. It is abysmal.”
Dublin City Council yesterday said it has no plans for park-and-ride facilities in the city, and that such facilities were more suitably located outside its boundaries.
Fingal County Council said it had no formal park-and-ride sites but that two council-owned sites in Balbriggan were used by commuters to park on an informal basis and a feasibility study was being conducted on the possibility of providing park-and-ride at Lissenhall, north of Swords.
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council said it was its policy to “encourage” park-and-ride. It did not have such facilities at present, but they were planned as part of the Luas extension in Carrickmines.
South Dublin County Council did not respond yesterday to queries about its facilities or plans.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Deer cull planned as spiralling numbers threaten farmlands
WILD DEER roaming the countryside are to be culled by conservationists in a bid to protect farmlands and maintain herds humanely.
For the first time in the Republic, licensed deer stalkers will be called out by farmers to shoot the protected species if they are damaging crops, forests or causing traffic accidents.
Despite more than 20,000 deer being legally hunted each year, experts believe there could be five times as many around the country.
The new deer management programme – announced by the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA), the Irish Deer Society and the Wild Deer Association of Ireland – will also advise landowners on other ways to manage deer on their property.
Paul Wood, of the Irish Deer Society, said the scheme was not about killing huge numbers of deer but about dealing with localised problems. “We are a conservation organisation. We are not a deer-shooting organisation, but deer have no natural enemies and therefore the rifle is an important management tool,” said Mr Wood.
“It is possible this could cause some controversy because people don’t understand the problem. People don’t realise there are so many deer. But I would prefer to see deer shot humanly and properly and carefully, rather than a free fall and people taking it into their own hands.
“If there’s going to be a management situation, it must be done correctly and properly.
“Unmanaged deer herds can increase annually by 30 per cent.
“Proper management conducted during the open season should reduce the need for Section 42 licences, which allow the hunting of female deer out of season and can leave calves on their own.”
The IFA said the rise in deer numbers poses a threat to road-users and private property.
Deputy president Derek Deane encouraged farmers who have problems with deer numbers to use the scheme, which will preserve the deer population in their own environment.
“The dramatic rise in deer numbers in the last few years has posed problems for farmers, including fence damage, encroaching on crops, grazing of pastureland and increasing the risk of disease outbreaks,” said Mr Deane.
“All these have financial implications for farmers.
“The IFA recognises the value of maintaining a healthy herd, but it must be within the natural environment for the deer.”
President of the Wild Deer Association of Ireland Pat Scully said education will also be an element to programme. “Part of the problem is down to a lack of deer-management knowledge,” he added. “Hunters often concentrate on culling male deer because they want a set of trophy antlers.
“This does very little to control deer numbers as female numbers escalate. This approach does little for farmers or for the national deer herd.”
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
For the first time in the Republic, licensed deer stalkers will be called out by farmers to shoot the protected species if they are damaging crops, forests or causing traffic accidents.
Despite more than 20,000 deer being legally hunted each year, experts believe there could be five times as many around the country.
The new deer management programme – announced by the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA), the Irish Deer Society and the Wild Deer Association of Ireland – will also advise landowners on other ways to manage deer on their property.
Paul Wood, of the Irish Deer Society, said the scheme was not about killing huge numbers of deer but about dealing with localised problems. “We are a conservation organisation. We are not a deer-shooting organisation, but deer have no natural enemies and therefore the rifle is an important management tool,” said Mr Wood.
“It is possible this could cause some controversy because people don’t understand the problem. People don’t realise there are so many deer. But I would prefer to see deer shot humanly and properly and carefully, rather than a free fall and people taking it into their own hands.
“If there’s going to be a management situation, it must be done correctly and properly.
“Unmanaged deer herds can increase annually by 30 per cent.
“Proper management conducted during the open season should reduce the need for Section 42 licences, which allow the hunting of female deer out of season and can leave calves on their own.”
The IFA said the rise in deer numbers poses a threat to road-users and private property.
Deputy president Derek Deane encouraged farmers who have problems with deer numbers to use the scheme, which will preserve the deer population in their own environment.
“The dramatic rise in deer numbers in the last few years has posed problems for farmers, including fence damage, encroaching on crops, grazing of pastureland and increasing the risk of disease outbreaks,” said Mr Deane.
“All these have financial implications for farmers.
“The IFA recognises the value of maintaining a healthy herd, but it must be within the natural environment for the deer.”
President of the Wild Deer Association of Ireland Pat Scully said education will also be an element to programme. “Part of the problem is down to a lack of deer-management knowledge,” he added. “Hunters often concentrate on culling male deer because they want a set of trophy antlers.
“This does very little to control deer numbers as female numbers escalate. This approach does little for farmers or for the national deer herd.”
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Dublin local authorities owed up to €322m in unpaid levies
THE FOUR Dublin local authorities are collectively owed up to €322 million from property developers in unpaid levies.
Dublin City Council is owed €142 million in development levy contributions by builders according to a report to be presented to the council’s finance committee next week.
While €118 million relates to developments which have not yet been completed, €28 million remains outstanding from developers whose schemes are completed but have not paid their debt to the council.
Developers of residential or commercial schemes, as a condition of planning permission, must pay a levy towards council costs of providing water, roads and sewerage for their developments. Levies in the city are €13,908 per unit for residential projects and €132 per sq m for commercial or industrial schemes.
Fingal County Council is owed €70 million, the bulk of which is now subject to phased payments that have been agreed with the developers. However, the council said it would institute legal proceedings if the money was not forthcoming.
Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council said it is owed a “nominal figure” of €86.7 million, but that the actual figure would be much less because of issues relating to duplicate permission for the one site, and phased payments that have yet to be tallied.
South Dublin County Council said it was owed in the region of €22.5 million in development levies.
Separately, Dublin City Council is facing a massive drop in funding for the city’s infrastructure, following a fall of more than 55 per cent in the value of levies paid by developers due to the downturn in construction.
The council brought in almost €68 million in development levies in 2007. In 2008, it collected just €30 million in levies and is expecting to get less than €25 million this year.
Levies are collected by the council on a quarterly basis and dwindled over the course of last year from almost €12 million in the first three months to just under €4 million in the last three months of the year.
The money is ringfenced and used to fund the development of the city’s capital infrastructure. The council expects to fund eight percent of infrastructure from this source in 2009.
Fine Gael councillor Naoise Ó Muirí said the council needed to find new sources of funding for the city’s infrastructure and should consider the introduction of an investment bond scheme.
“We can’t afford to take this hit on our capital budget without generating new income. The Government could facilitate Dublin City Council in moving to municipal bonds, or ‘munis’, as an alternative source of funding,” he said.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Dublin City Council is owed €142 million in development levy contributions by builders according to a report to be presented to the council’s finance committee next week.
While €118 million relates to developments which have not yet been completed, €28 million remains outstanding from developers whose schemes are completed but have not paid their debt to the council.
Developers of residential or commercial schemes, as a condition of planning permission, must pay a levy towards council costs of providing water, roads and sewerage for their developments. Levies in the city are €13,908 per unit for residential projects and €132 per sq m for commercial or industrial schemes.
Fingal County Council is owed €70 million, the bulk of which is now subject to phased payments that have been agreed with the developers. However, the council said it would institute legal proceedings if the money was not forthcoming.
Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council said it is owed a “nominal figure” of €86.7 million, but that the actual figure would be much less because of issues relating to duplicate permission for the one site, and phased payments that have yet to be tallied.
South Dublin County Council said it was owed in the region of €22.5 million in development levies.
Separately, Dublin City Council is facing a massive drop in funding for the city’s infrastructure, following a fall of more than 55 per cent in the value of levies paid by developers due to the downturn in construction.
The council brought in almost €68 million in development levies in 2007. In 2008, it collected just €30 million in levies and is expecting to get less than €25 million this year.
Levies are collected by the council on a quarterly basis and dwindled over the course of last year from almost €12 million in the first three months to just under €4 million in the last three months of the year.
The money is ringfenced and used to fund the development of the city’s capital infrastructure. The council expects to fund eight percent of infrastructure from this source in 2009.
Fine Gael councillor Naoise Ó Muirí said the council needed to find new sources of funding for the city’s infrastructure and should consider the introduction of an investment bond scheme.
“We can’t afford to take this hit on our capital budget without generating new income. The Government could facilitate Dublin City Council in moving to municipal bonds, or ‘munis’, as an alternative source of funding,” he said.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Development of National Museum is postponed
PLANS TO develop the National Museum at Collins Barracks in Dublin have been postponed because of budgetary restraints.
Minister of State for Finance Martin Mansergh has confirmed that a project to extend the museum’s exhibition space has been put on hold. Speaking in the Dáil on Wednesday, Dr Mansergh said progress on the project was at an “advanced stage”.
He said the Office of Public Works (OPW) was currently finalising tender documents, which would be ready by April of this year. “However, given the current budgetary situation, it will not be possible to progress this project at the present time. The project will proceed as planned when the overall financial situation improves,” he said.
Fine Gael’s spokeswoman on tourism, Olivia Mitchell, said the suspension of the project was a blow to the tourism sector. She said the Asgard yacht, which carried guns used in the 1916 Rising, was due to be placed on show in the barracks following restoration, as were artefacts from Captain Cook’s south seas voyages.
“This is a short-sighted cutback that will end up costing Ireland more in the longer term than it will save immediately,” she said.
“Alongside the financial folly of scrapping revenue-generating projects, there is also the issue that planning permission for the exhibition space will lapse at the end of this year and it is unclear as to how many hoops would have to be jumped through to receive it again.”
Ms Mitchell claimed the plan to develop the project had been “abandoned”. However, an OPW spokesman denied that this was the case.
“It would be unfair to put contractors to the expense of preparing bids without the expectation that the project would proceed immediately or in the short term,” a spokesman said.
Meanwhile, work that will enable Dublin’s Natural History Museum to reopen will be carried out this summer, according to the OPW. The museum closed to the public in July 2007 after a staircase collapsed.
An OPW spokesman said the work was now expected to be completed by September.
In December of last year it emerged that a major renovation plan for the Merrion Street facility had been put on hold because of cutbacks. Some €15 million had been earmarked in the National Development Plan to upgrade the 150-year-old building.
An OPW spokesman said: “We are preparing a set of works that will be undertaken to get the museum opened.” He said they were “looking at options that can enable the museum to be open again to the public this year”.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Minister of State for Finance Martin Mansergh has confirmed that a project to extend the museum’s exhibition space has been put on hold. Speaking in the Dáil on Wednesday, Dr Mansergh said progress on the project was at an “advanced stage”.
He said the Office of Public Works (OPW) was currently finalising tender documents, which would be ready by April of this year. “However, given the current budgetary situation, it will not be possible to progress this project at the present time. The project will proceed as planned when the overall financial situation improves,” he said.
Fine Gael’s spokeswoman on tourism, Olivia Mitchell, said the suspension of the project was a blow to the tourism sector. She said the Asgard yacht, which carried guns used in the 1916 Rising, was due to be placed on show in the barracks following restoration, as were artefacts from Captain Cook’s south seas voyages.
“This is a short-sighted cutback that will end up costing Ireland more in the longer term than it will save immediately,” she said.
“Alongside the financial folly of scrapping revenue-generating projects, there is also the issue that planning permission for the exhibition space will lapse at the end of this year and it is unclear as to how many hoops would have to be jumped through to receive it again.”
Ms Mitchell claimed the plan to develop the project had been “abandoned”. However, an OPW spokesman denied that this was the case.
“It would be unfair to put contractors to the expense of preparing bids without the expectation that the project would proceed immediately or in the short term,” a spokesman said.
Meanwhile, work that will enable Dublin’s Natural History Museum to reopen will be carried out this summer, according to the OPW. The museum closed to the public in July 2007 after a staircase collapsed.
An OPW spokesman said the work was now expected to be completed by September.
In December of last year it emerged that a major renovation plan for the Merrion Street facility had been put on hold because of cutbacks. Some €15 million had been earmarked in the National Development Plan to upgrade the 150-year-old building.
An OPW spokesman said: “We are preparing a set of works that will be undertaken to get the museum opened.” He said they were “looking at options that can enable the museum to be open again to the public this year”.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Wednesday, 18 February 2009
Developer claims embassy requirement not justified
A DEVELOPER who paid €8.5 million for a building on Dublin’s Ailesbury Road has claimed before the High Court there is no justification for a planning requirement that it can only be used as an embassy.
Derek Quinlan bought the former Mexican embassy building at Ailesbury Road in October 2007 and shortly afterwards applied to Dublin City Council for permission to refurbish and extend the existing offices in the premises.
He sought permission to, among other matters, remove a free-standing pergola and build a single-storey extension at the rear of the building. Mr Quinlan intended to use the premises as offices and the premises represented “a very significant investment” by him, including €1.67 million for the refurbishment works.
However, the council indicated it would only grant permission subject to the use of the entire premises “solely for use as an embassy” as defined in the 2005-2011 city development plan.
The building is a protected structure which was used as an embassy by Mexico and previously by Germany since 1964.
The council gave its reason as to control development, protect the amenities of the residential conservation area as zoned in the development plan and facilitate the zoning objectives of that plan.
Mr Quinlan appealed to An Bord Pleanála but its ruling also required the embassy condition be included. On September 9th last, the council granted him permission subject to the disputed condition. In his High Court proceedings against the board and the council, Mr Quinlan wants orders quashing the disputed condition.
Eamon Galligan SC, for Mr Quinlan, said while the building had been the Mexican embassy until 1995, it had also been used as offices before it was purchased by Mr Quinlan. Mr Galligan said the council had relied on its development plan to impose this condition but there was no provision in the plan justifying such a condition.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Derek Quinlan bought the former Mexican embassy building at Ailesbury Road in October 2007 and shortly afterwards applied to Dublin City Council for permission to refurbish and extend the existing offices in the premises.
He sought permission to, among other matters, remove a free-standing pergola and build a single-storey extension at the rear of the building. Mr Quinlan intended to use the premises as offices and the premises represented “a very significant investment” by him, including €1.67 million for the refurbishment works.
However, the council indicated it would only grant permission subject to the use of the entire premises “solely for use as an embassy” as defined in the 2005-2011 city development plan.
The building is a protected structure which was used as an embassy by Mexico and previously by Germany since 1964.
The council gave its reason as to control development, protect the amenities of the residential conservation area as zoned in the development plan and facilitate the zoning objectives of that plan.
Mr Quinlan appealed to An Bord Pleanála but its ruling also required the embassy condition be included. On September 9th last, the council granted him permission subject to the disputed condition. In his High Court proceedings against the board and the council, Mr Quinlan wants orders quashing the disputed condition.
Eamon Galligan SC, for Mr Quinlan, said while the building had been the Mexican embassy until 1995, it had also been used as offices before it was purchased by Mr Quinlan. Mr Galligan said the council had relied on its development plan to impose this condition but there was no provision in the plan justifying such a condition.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Tuesday, 17 February 2009
€350m plan for new Galway harbour
A €350 million development plan for Galway harbour aims to move the port south on land reclaimed from Galway Bay.
The project aims to attract cruise liners into a transformed deepwater port, develop a new rail link and build up to 300 marina berths.
An “iconic” structure marking the port from sea approaches will be commissioned as part of the three-phase development, according to Galway Harbour Company.
Significantly, the harbour company intends to work with CIÉ on redeveloping the existing harbour area, and a local area action plan will be initiated as part of this, it says.
The three-phase plan has been prepared in advance of Galway’s hosting the first Irish stop-over for the Volvo Ocean Race. The Government has committed €8 million to Galway’s Volvo participation, and the event is expected to attracted 140,000 spectators and a worldwide television audience, with a prospective spend of over €40 million during the fortnight from May 23rd to June 6th.
However, no State funds are anticipated for the harbour project, which aims to qualify for strategic infrastructure approval with Bord Pleanála. Some 99 per cent of the new port will be built on reclaimed land and it is “vital” for Galway’s future, the company’s chief executive Eamon Bradshaw says.
First phase from 2010 to 2013 will involve reclamation using dredged material, building a new quay wall, the development of an extended rail link, the provision of new fishing berths and the development of a 177-berth marina.
The second phase will involve completing the marina and fishing berths, and building a new nautical centre and harbour office between 2013 and 2015. The final phase will involve providing an eastern marina with 110 berths, constructing public promenades to the east and west of the development and landscaping.
Inshore fishermen have been consulted, and initial talks have taken place with a number of stakeholders, the company says. It aims to fund the development through disposal of some of its existing portfolio, and it says it has already received Cabinet approval in principal.
The plan refines an initial €2 billion strategy presented in August 2006 to former taoiseach Bertie Ahern by a “vision” group set up for the port. This focused on moving the existing tidal port to deepwater, and was marketed as a “flagship” project for the west for the 2007-2013 national development plan.
However, An Taisce’s Galway branch was critical of lack of consultation, and said an overall plan for Galway docks was already a requirement in the Galway City Council development strategy.
Last year, Minister for Transport Noel Dempsey published a Harbours (Amendment) Bill 2008 to permit the 10 State port companies to pursue a “robust commercial agenda” both in and outside the State and boost their commercial mandate.
Irish Times
wwww.buckplanning.ie
The project aims to attract cruise liners into a transformed deepwater port, develop a new rail link and build up to 300 marina berths.
An “iconic” structure marking the port from sea approaches will be commissioned as part of the three-phase development, according to Galway Harbour Company.
Significantly, the harbour company intends to work with CIÉ on redeveloping the existing harbour area, and a local area action plan will be initiated as part of this, it says.
The three-phase plan has been prepared in advance of Galway’s hosting the first Irish stop-over for the Volvo Ocean Race. The Government has committed €8 million to Galway’s Volvo participation, and the event is expected to attracted 140,000 spectators and a worldwide television audience, with a prospective spend of over €40 million during the fortnight from May 23rd to June 6th.
However, no State funds are anticipated for the harbour project, which aims to qualify for strategic infrastructure approval with Bord Pleanála. Some 99 per cent of the new port will be built on reclaimed land and it is “vital” for Galway’s future, the company’s chief executive Eamon Bradshaw says.
First phase from 2010 to 2013 will involve reclamation using dredged material, building a new quay wall, the development of an extended rail link, the provision of new fishing berths and the development of a 177-berth marina.
The second phase will involve completing the marina and fishing berths, and building a new nautical centre and harbour office between 2013 and 2015. The final phase will involve providing an eastern marina with 110 berths, constructing public promenades to the east and west of the development and landscaping.
Inshore fishermen have been consulted, and initial talks have taken place with a number of stakeholders, the company says. It aims to fund the development through disposal of some of its existing portfolio, and it says it has already received Cabinet approval in principal.
The plan refines an initial €2 billion strategy presented in August 2006 to former taoiseach Bertie Ahern by a “vision” group set up for the port. This focused on moving the existing tidal port to deepwater, and was marketed as a “flagship” project for the west for the 2007-2013 national development plan.
However, An Taisce’s Galway branch was critical of lack of consultation, and said an overall plan for Galway docks was already a requirement in the Galway City Council development strategy.
Last year, Minister for Transport Noel Dempsey published a Harbours (Amendment) Bill 2008 to permit the 10 State port companies to pursue a “robust commercial agenda” both in and outside the State and boost their commercial mandate.
Irish Times
wwww.buckplanning.ie
Council to revise Croke Park parking ban
DUBLIN CITY Council’s plans to ban match-goers from parking within two kilometres from Croke Park are to be revised following more than 100 objections to the proposed bylaws.
All non-residents were to be banned from parking within the 2km cordon during matches. Those who flouted the ban would risk having their vehicle clamped or removed and have to pay a fee for their release. Several TDs raised concerns about the ban, including former taoiseach Bertie Ahern who was worried that the parking restriction would stop people attending Mass.
Senior city council officials last September recommended the bylaws be scrapped following the predominantly negative reaction to the public consultation process.
However, councillors voted to defer a decision pending talks with the Croke Park authorities, the Department of Transport, public transport providers and the Garda.
The executive manager of the council’s traffic department Tim O’Sullivan has said that during these discussions it emerged that the issue of people not being able to attend Mass was a “red herring” because most services took place outside the proposed parking restriction hours, and in the case of services during the restriction, people would not get parking anyway because of match-goers taking all the spaces.
Objections raised in relation to access to pubs, restaurants and other businesses were also red herrings Mr O’Sullivan said, as again people cannot get parking anyway because of match-goers.
However, he said complaints in relation to displacement of the parking problem to areas just outside the cordon were valid and studies should be carried out in order to quantify this effect. The introduction of “park and ride” should also be investigated. The Garda re-iterated its opposition to the bylaws, Mr O’Sullivan said.
The council’s transport committee has decided the bylaws should be amended to reflect some of the concerns which emerged in the consultation process, and that a new draft be put out to public consultation. However, it is unlikely that new bylaws will be in place to deal with the parking problems which will occur during this year’s GAA season.
Fianna Fáil councillor Mary Fitzpatrick, who originally proposed the bylaws, said the response to the public consultation, including from those who objected on the grounds of parking displacement, showed how severe the parking problems associated with Croke Park were.
“This is a densely populated area with little or no off-street parking. The public consultation process served to underline the serious problems with traffic around Croke Park,” she said.
The current proposed cordon stretches north to Griffith Avenue, south to Talbot Street, Gardiner Street and Parnell Square, east to North Strand Road and west to Botanic Road.
Councillors and TDs, including Seán Haughey (FF), Richard Bruton (FG) and Finian McGrath (Ind) whose constituents lived just outside those areas said the parking problem would be transferred to areas on the cordon’s margins.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
All non-residents were to be banned from parking within the 2km cordon during matches. Those who flouted the ban would risk having their vehicle clamped or removed and have to pay a fee for their release. Several TDs raised concerns about the ban, including former taoiseach Bertie Ahern who was worried that the parking restriction would stop people attending Mass.
Senior city council officials last September recommended the bylaws be scrapped following the predominantly negative reaction to the public consultation process.
However, councillors voted to defer a decision pending talks with the Croke Park authorities, the Department of Transport, public transport providers and the Garda.
The executive manager of the council’s traffic department Tim O’Sullivan has said that during these discussions it emerged that the issue of people not being able to attend Mass was a “red herring” because most services took place outside the proposed parking restriction hours, and in the case of services during the restriction, people would not get parking anyway because of match-goers taking all the spaces.
Objections raised in relation to access to pubs, restaurants and other businesses were also red herrings Mr O’Sullivan said, as again people cannot get parking anyway because of match-goers.
However, he said complaints in relation to displacement of the parking problem to areas just outside the cordon were valid and studies should be carried out in order to quantify this effect. The introduction of “park and ride” should also be investigated. The Garda re-iterated its opposition to the bylaws, Mr O’Sullivan said.
The council’s transport committee has decided the bylaws should be amended to reflect some of the concerns which emerged in the consultation process, and that a new draft be put out to public consultation. However, it is unlikely that new bylaws will be in place to deal with the parking problems which will occur during this year’s GAA season.
Fianna Fáil councillor Mary Fitzpatrick, who originally proposed the bylaws, said the response to the public consultation, including from those who objected on the grounds of parking displacement, showed how severe the parking problems associated with Croke Park were.
“This is a densely populated area with little or no off-street parking. The public consultation process served to underline the serious problems with traffic around Croke Park,” she said.
The current proposed cordon stretches north to Griffith Avenue, south to Talbot Street, Gardiner Street and Parnell Square, east to North Strand Road and west to Botanic Road.
Councillors and TDs, including Seán Haughey (FF), Richard Bruton (FG) and Finian McGrath (Ind) whose constituents lived just outside those areas said the parking problem would be transferred to areas on the cordon’s margins.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Flood risk analysis requested in response to Dublin Bay infill plan
AN BORD Pleanála has requested an assessment of the flood risk to Clontarf seafront as well as the Liffey, Dodder and Tolka rivers, from proposals to infill 21 hectares (52 acres) of Dublin Bay.
Dublin Port Company is seeking permission for new deep-water berths at the northeastern part of Dublin Port.
In addition to the proposed infill, there would be additional dredging or other works on a further 17 hectares (43 acres) of the bay.
The proposal is being resisted by the campaign group Dublin Bay Watch, chaired by Clontarf based member of Dublin City Council Gerry Breen.
In its letter to the port company An Bord Pleanála specifically refers to flood dangers at Clontarf, drawing the port company’s attention to a storm water culvert along the Clontarf coastline “which is understood to be seriously impaired due to the absence of several of the outfall flap valves”. Flap valves are designed to prevent seawater rising through local drains.
The letter also refers to the “need for greater clarity in the determination of return period discharges for the rivers Liffey, Tolka and Dodder”.
In addition An Bord Pleanála has asked for “detailed analysis of longterm tidal trends with the bay as a result of increasing sea levels” and has also requested “more comprehensive explanation of the impact of climate change and how it is implemented within the modelling studies”.
The port company applied to the strategic infrastructure division of the planning board on September 8th last and the period for public submissions closed in October.
The port company has said the extra deep water berths are essential to the operation of the port which is at capacity. The company said this in turn has implications for the prosperity of the State, as the majority of goods imported and exported move through Dublin Port.
The deadline for the additional information is March 20th.
However, Mr Breen told The Irish Times the scale of the information required was a “clear” indication that An Bord Pleanála considered the information supplied by Dublin Port in support of its application to be inadequate.
“An Bord Pleanála has shown itself to be rigorous in assessing all proposals before it and this additional information request shows that the environmental impact statement submitted did not fulfil all the necessary requirements”.
Mr Breen said he was looking forward to an oral hearing proposed for May “that will allow members of the public who are worried about the infill to spell out their concerns”.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Dublin Port Company is seeking permission for new deep-water berths at the northeastern part of Dublin Port.
In addition to the proposed infill, there would be additional dredging or other works on a further 17 hectares (43 acres) of the bay.
The proposal is being resisted by the campaign group Dublin Bay Watch, chaired by Clontarf based member of Dublin City Council Gerry Breen.
In its letter to the port company An Bord Pleanála specifically refers to flood dangers at Clontarf, drawing the port company’s attention to a storm water culvert along the Clontarf coastline “which is understood to be seriously impaired due to the absence of several of the outfall flap valves”. Flap valves are designed to prevent seawater rising through local drains.
The letter also refers to the “need for greater clarity in the determination of return period discharges for the rivers Liffey, Tolka and Dodder”.
In addition An Bord Pleanála has asked for “detailed analysis of longterm tidal trends with the bay as a result of increasing sea levels” and has also requested “more comprehensive explanation of the impact of climate change and how it is implemented within the modelling studies”.
The port company applied to the strategic infrastructure division of the planning board on September 8th last and the period for public submissions closed in October.
The port company has said the extra deep water berths are essential to the operation of the port which is at capacity. The company said this in turn has implications for the prosperity of the State, as the majority of goods imported and exported move through Dublin Port.
The deadline for the additional information is March 20th.
However, Mr Breen told The Irish Times the scale of the information required was a “clear” indication that An Bord Pleanála considered the information supplied by Dublin Port in support of its application to be inadequate.
“An Bord Pleanála has shown itself to be rigorous in assessing all proposals before it and this additional information request shows that the environmental impact statement submitted did not fulfil all the necessary requirements”.
Mr Breen said he was looking forward to an oral hearing proposed for May “that will allow members of the public who are worried about the infill to spell out their concerns”.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
President and Archbishop Tutu open Ballymun facilities
New music and sports facilities at two schools in Ballymun were formally opened today by President Mary McAllese and Archbishop Desmond Tutu.
The Music Room at St Joseph’s School and the BRL Umbro Sports Arena at Trinity Comprehensive School are the latest projects built by Ballymun Regeneration Ltd, the Dublin City Council company set up in 1997 to plan and implement a regeneration programme which will result in a new town with new and improved facilities for the 30,000 people who will live there.
The Music Room is a dedicated practice and performance space for the children of the Ballymun Music Programme, and will be open to community groups and local societies.
It is built to a very high acoustic standard with a sprung timber dance floor suitable for both St Joseph's Wind Band and dance, martial arts, and aerobics. The Ballymun Music Programme is an initiative of Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT) Community Links Programme.
The programme involves children from seven primary and secondary schools in the area and runs two junior wind bands, a junior string orchestra and a number of choirs.
Children from the programme performed A New Day for the President and the Archbishop. Written by Ballymun teenagers, Daire Ní Bhroin, Darren Scully and John Wrafter, along with composer, Daragh O'Toole, it was inspired by the optimism of the young people in Ballymun today.
The BRL Umbro Sports Arena was built by Ballymun Regeneration in recognition of the need for an all-weather sports facility that would provide a positive outlet for young people in the area.
It was built in collaboration with Sports Across Ireland and a American community sports foundation, Oregon USA.
"The opening today of the Music Room and the BRL Umbro Sports Arena that will make Ballymun one of the top destinations for the FAI's 5-a-side indoor soccer tournaments confirms that Ballymun is growing and prospering,” said Ciarán Murray, Managing Director of Ballymun Regeneration Ltd.
"The two Ballymun schools where the new facilities were open today have just recently joined the Amawale project, that twins them with South African schools and gives them opportunities to connect with each other, to learn about their similarities and differences and to create new friendships," says Ronan King, Chairman of Ballymun Regeneration Ltd.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
The Music Room at St Joseph’s School and the BRL Umbro Sports Arena at Trinity Comprehensive School are the latest projects built by Ballymun Regeneration Ltd, the Dublin City Council company set up in 1997 to plan and implement a regeneration programme which will result in a new town with new and improved facilities for the 30,000 people who will live there.
The Music Room is a dedicated practice and performance space for the children of the Ballymun Music Programme, and will be open to community groups and local societies.
It is built to a very high acoustic standard with a sprung timber dance floor suitable for both St Joseph's Wind Band and dance, martial arts, and aerobics. The Ballymun Music Programme is an initiative of Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT) Community Links Programme.
The programme involves children from seven primary and secondary schools in the area and runs two junior wind bands, a junior string orchestra and a number of choirs.
Children from the programme performed A New Day for the President and the Archbishop. Written by Ballymun teenagers, Daire Ní Bhroin, Darren Scully and John Wrafter, along with composer, Daragh O'Toole, it was inspired by the optimism of the young people in Ballymun today.
The BRL Umbro Sports Arena was built by Ballymun Regeneration in recognition of the need for an all-weather sports facility that would provide a positive outlet for young people in the area.
It was built in collaboration with Sports Across Ireland and a American community sports foundation, Oregon USA.
"The opening today of the Music Room and the BRL Umbro Sports Arena that will make Ballymun one of the top destinations for the FAI's 5-a-side indoor soccer tournaments confirms that Ballymun is growing and prospering,” said Ciarán Murray, Managing Director of Ballymun Regeneration Ltd.
"The two Ballymun schools where the new facilities were open today have just recently joined the Amawale project, that twins them with South African schools and gives them opportunities to connect with each other, to learn about their similarities and differences and to create new friendships," says Ronan King, Chairman of Ballymun Regeneration Ltd.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Sunday, 15 February 2009
Fresh ethics inquiry facing Wicklow's Cllr. Whittle
WICKLOW County Council's ethics committee has been ordered by the High Court to carry out a fresh inquiry into complaints that Cllr. Fachtna Whittle breached ethics legislation.
Cllr. Whittle, who is also a solicitor, is accused by Green Party Senator Deirdre de Burca of proposing and voting for the rezoning of land without disclosing that the land belonged to an owner his law firm had represented.
On Wednesday, Justice John Hedigan ruled that the ethics committee hadn't dealt with the right questions while reviewing the case.
In June of 2005 the committee released its findings, mainly that while Cllr. Whittle had been 'unwise to propose the motion he did' he had no ' beneficial or pecuniary interest' and the complaint was 'unjustified'.
Justice Hedigan has now quashed that report and has directed the Council to review the matter. He felt that if the Council had properly construed the provisions of the local government act 2001 relating to ethical frameworks then the ethics committee wouldn't have reached the conclusion it did.
Senator de Burca had argued that the report failed to ask did Cllr. Whittle have a beneficial interest, within the meaning of section 176.2 of the 2001 act, when proposing the rezoning of lands at Ballylusk, Ashford to extend a quarry there.
She felt he had breached the ethics provision by failing to disclose that his legal firm was acting for the quarry owner in legal proceedings trying to determine the planning status of the site.
Cllr. Whittle argued that even if the rezoning had been adopted it wouldn't have had an affect on those proceedings, and that he was only aware of the proceedings involving the landowner in a very 'general way'.
Judge Hedigan ruled that the council had failed to consider the concept of a deemed beneficial interest under Section 176 (2) of the Act and had 'made a serious error of law'. The ethics committee must now carry out a second investigation under which councillors provide details of declarable interests as part of the annual declaration.
Myles BUCHANAN
Wicklow People
www.buckplanning.ie
Cllr. Whittle, who is also a solicitor, is accused by Green Party Senator Deirdre de Burca of proposing and voting for the rezoning of land without disclosing that the land belonged to an owner his law firm had represented.
On Wednesday, Justice John Hedigan ruled that the ethics committee hadn't dealt with the right questions while reviewing the case.
In June of 2005 the committee released its findings, mainly that while Cllr. Whittle had been 'unwise to propose the motion he did' he had no ' beneficial or pecuniary interest' and the complaint was 'unjustified'.
Justice Hedigan has now quashed that report and has directed the Council to review the matter. He felt that if the Council had properly construed the provisions of the local government act 2001 relating to ethical frameworks then the ethics committee wouldn't have reached the conclusion it did.
Senator de Burca had argued that the report failed to ask did Cllr. Whittle have a beneficial interest, within the meaning of section 176.2 of the 2001 act, when proposing the rezoning of lands at Ballylusk, Ashford to extend a quarry there.
She felt he had breached the ethics provision by failing to disclose that his legal firm was acting for the quarry owner in legal proceedings trying to determine the planning status of the site.
Cllr. Whittle argued that even if the rezoning had been adopted it wouldn't have had an affect on those proceedings, and that he was only aware of the proceedings involving the landowner in a very 'general way'.
Judge Hedigan ruled that the council had failed to consider the concept of a deemed beneficial interest under Section 176 (2) of the Act and had 'made a serious error of law'. The ethics committee must now carry out a second investigation under which councillors provide details of declarable interests as part of the annual declaration.
Myles BUCHANAN
Wicklow People
www.buckplanning.ie
'Planning dictator' insult fired at Minister Gormley
AN BORD PLEANALA and Minister for the Environment, John Gormley, came in for sharp criticism at last Monday's meeting of Wicklow County Council.
Deirdre Scully of the Regional Planning Guidelines gave the members notice that guidelines for the Greater Dublin area, which includes Wicklow Town and county, were going to be reviewed and said they would welcome submissions.
The idea behind the review, she said, was so they could see the areas within each county they needed to focus on.
Key issues under the RPGs include public transport, water services, the built and natural heritage and social infrastructure.
Following her presentation Cllr. George Jones said he felt the 'whole planning process is just a bureaucratic nightmare. 'We are going nowhere. The Minister for the Environment is a complete dictator when it comes to planning.'
Cllr. Chris Fox agreed saying Minister Gormley has 'started to dictate to local authorities about planning. We heard about a memo from the Minister to each county manager urging them not to relax any criteria for rural planning and to tighten it significantly instead.'
Cllr. Jimmy O'Shaughnessy said he didn't feel Wicklow got enough out of the current RPGs. 'One thing that was put into the last plan was about bringing jobs to Wicklow. I don't think we got any jobs out of it and in fact factories are closing every day,' he said. Cllr. O'Shaughnessy was also concerned about the intervention of Minister Gormley. 'I am worried about the Minister. I believe if he had his way there wouldn't be a house built in the county. People have the right to live where they were born and reared.'
Cllr. John Ryan said there were massive inconsistencies within An Bord Pleanala. 'Wicklow County Council makes one decision, the inspector with An Bord Pleanala makes another and An Bord Pleanala makes another. It seems to me that God only knows what they (An Bord Pleanala) will do.
Cllr. Pat Vance said that he had been expressing his concerns about An Bord Pleanala for a long time and said they were behaving disgracefully.
Green Party's Ciaran O'Brien said there had been 'horrendous' planning practices in Ireland for the past ten years and said people 'were giving planning permission to their buddies'.
However Cllr. O'Shaughnessy was outraged and asked him to retract the statement saying that when it came to planning he had 'no buddies'.
Wicklow People
www.buckplanning.ie
Deirdre Scully of the Regional Planning Guidelines gave the members notice that guidelines for the Greater Dublin area, which includes Wicklow Town and county, were going to be reviewed and said they would welcome submissions.
The idea behind the review, she said, was so they could see the areas within each county they needed to focus on.
Key issues under the RPGs include public transport, water services, the built and natural heritage and social infrastructure.
Following her presentation Cllr. George Jones said he felt the 'whole planning process is just a bureaucratic nightmare. 'We are going nowhere. The Minister for the Environment is a complete dictator when it comes to planning.'
Cllr. Chris Fox agreed saying Minister Gormley has 'started to dictate to local authorities about planning. We heard about a memo from the Minister to each county manager urging them not to relax any criteria for rural planning and to tighten it significantly instead.'
Cllr. Jimmy O'Shaughnessy said he didn't feel Wicklow got enough out of the current RPGs. 'One thing that was put into the last plan was about bringing jobs to Wicklow. I don't think we got any jobs out of it and in fact factories are closing every day,' he said. Cllr. O'Shaughnessy was also concerned about the intervention of Minister Gormley. 'I am worried about the Minister. I believe if he had his way there wouldn't be a house built in the county. People have the right to live where they were born and reared.'
Cllr. John Ryan said there were massive inconsistencies within An Bord Pleanala. 'Wicklow County Council makes one decision, the inspector with An Bord Pleanala makes another and An Bord Pleanala makes another. It seems to me that God only knows what they (An Bord Pleanala) will do.
Cllr. Pat Vance said that he had been expressing his concerns about An Bord Pleanala for a long time and said they were behaving disgracefully.
Green Party's Ciaran O'Brien said there had been 'horrendous' planning practices in Ireland for the past ten years and said people 'were giving planning permission to their buddies'.
However Cllr. O'Shaughnessy was outraged and asked him to retract the statement saying that when it came to planning he had 'no buddies'.
Wicklow People
www.buckplanning.ie
Architectural Conservation Area proposal for Wicklow Town is rejected
PROPOSALS TO turn from Abbey Street to Market Square into an Architectural Conservation Area (ACA) were rejected by four votes to three at Monday's Town Council meeting despite the Town Manager's insistence that it would be good for Wicklow.
The ACA was meant to maintain Wicklow's build heritage along the Main Street and ensure that any developments not in keeping with the town's character wouldn't be allowed to go ahead.
The proposal before the Council called for a variation of the Wicklow Town Development Plan 2007 to include the ACA.
Cllr. Conal Kavanagh said he was happy to vote in favour of the proposed ACA. 'It's not specifically targeting certain buildings. It's just to maintain Wicklow's build heritage and as someone who was born and raised in Wicklow I regard this as the right move. I think it's a complete red herring to say the current economic climate is a reason not to accept. It's not because of an ACA that things are going wrong in Wicklow Town.'
He also pointed out that if an ACA had already been in place beyond the tennis courts then the Xtra-Vision development would not have been allowed to go ahead.
'Instead we turned it down and An Bord Pleanála over-ruled us. Now it remains one of the biggest scars in Wicklow Town.'
Town Manager Michael Nicholson said he was disappointed when an ACA wasn't included in the original Town Development Plan and it could be used as a tool be developers.
'If someone comes in now and wants to develop something outrageous with plastic and flashing coloured lights, and we turn it down, they can just go to Bord Pleanála. The Bord don't live in Wicklow Town and know nothing about the history of the town.'
As an example he mentioned if McDonalds wanted to open up on the main street with the big golden arch neon sign placed in a very prominent position.
However, he had a difficult time convincing all the elected members that an ACA was a positive step for Wicklow.
'There are about eight or more shops vacant in the town now. Personally I would love McDonalds to open up here.
'That would mean more employment.'
Cllr. Bob Kearns said they were just covering old ground.
'We have been here before. An ACA restricts one person and then allows their neighbour to go ahead.'
Cllr. Denis Teevan felt, 'I have been against an ACA since day one. In the present climate I don't see it attracting anyone to the town at this stage.'
Voting in favour of the variation were Cllr. Kavanagh, Cllr. Irene Winters and Mayor John O'Brien. Cllr. Eamonn Long and Cllr. Fachtna Whittle weren't present, and the other four members present voted against the proposal.
Myles BUCHANAN
Wicklow People
www.buckplanning.ie
The ACA was meant to maintain Wicklow's build heritage along the Main Street and ensure that any developments not in keeping with the town's character wouldn't be allowed to go ahead.
The proposal before the Council called for a variation of the Wicklow Town Development Plan 2007 to include the ACA.
Cllr. Conal Kavanagh said he was happy to vote in favour of the proposed ACA. 'It's not specifically targeting certain buildings. It's just to maintain Wicklow's build heritage and as someone who was born and raised in Wicklow I regard this as the right move. I think it's a complete red herring to say the current economic climate is a reason not to accept. It's not because of an ACA that things are going wrong in Wicklow Town.'
He also pointed out that if an ACA had already been in place beyond the tennis courts then the Xtra-Vision development would not have been allowed to go ahead.
'Instead we turned it down and An Bord Pleanála over-ruled us. Now it remains one of the biggest scars in Wicklow Town.'
Town Manager Michael Nicholson said he was disappointed when an ACA wasn't included in the original Town Development Plan and it could be used as a tool be developers.
'If someone comes in now and wants to develop something outrageous with plastic and flashing coloured lights, and we turn it down, they can just go to Bord Pleanála. The Bord don't live in Wicklow Town and know nothing about the history of the town.'
As an example he mentioned if McDonalds wanted to open up on the main street with the big golden arch neon sign placed in a very prominent position.
However, he had a difficult time convincing all the elected members that an ACA was a positive step for Wicklow.
'There are about eight or more shops vacant in the town now. Personally I would love McDonalds to open up here.
'That would mean more employment.'
Cllr. Bob Kearns said they were just covering old ground.
'We have been here before. An ACA restricts one person and then allows their neighbour to go ahead.'
Cllr. Denis Teevan felt, 'I have been against an ACA since day one. In the present climate I don't see it attracting anyone to the town at this stage.'
Voting in favour of the variation were Cllr. Kavanagh, Cllr. Irene Winters and Mayor John O'Brien. Cllr. Eamonn Long and Cllr. Fachtna Whittle weren't present, and the other four members present voted against the proposal.
Myles BUCHANAN
Wicklow People
www.buckplanning.ie
Docklands authority in the dock over property
As property values plummet in Dublin's docklands, concern has been expressed about the DDDA's failure to pay interest on a key loan and the declining value of its holdings.
DDDA chief executive Paul Maloney with Anglo Irish Bank chairman Donal O'Connor
The South Wharf site at Poolbeg in south Dublin which was bought for €412m but is now valued at between €90m and €125m
The Dublin Docklands Development Authority (DDDA) is facing a substantial write-down in the value of its assets after the collapse in the property market. DDDA chief executive Paul Maloney confirmed to the Oireachtas committee on environment that most of its assets, which were valued at €177m last year, are "development assets". Development land has been the most adversely affected sector in the property downturn.
Chief among its assets is its stake in the South Wharf site at Poolbeg in south Dublin which was bought for €412m. Following Maloney's revelation that the state body and its partners are not paying interest on the loan to nationalised Anglo Irish Bank, the Sunday Tribune obtained three valuations of the site. The independent experts valued the land at €90m, €120m and €125m respectively, well below Maloney's assertion that he expects the site to be written down by just 20%-30% when it is valued in the coming weeks.
Maloney admitted that the value of the DDDA's assets "will be far lower this year, as we go through our annual accounts. We are determined that the €2.5m currently in the accounts for the next three years for community and social education purposes will not be affected. We have a borrowing facility with National Irish Bank. I want to make it clear that it's in place to help us through what we expect will be a difficult period". He claimed that the current downturn in the market is "cyclical".
The news that taxpayer-owned Anglo Irish Bank, and apparently Allied Irish Bank, limited the recourse on the loan to the land and the €100m guarantee, despite the loan being closer to €300m, also shocked observers. Maloney said it took a 26% stake in Becbay, the company that bought the site, to ensure it had voting rights. He also revealed that the site was valued at between €250m and €370m when it came on the market.
"We insisted that although we were taking a 26% stake in the site, we would not go beyond €375m. Our 26% was only up to that proportion; anything over it we left to the developers to take at their own risk, which they did," he told the committee. He did not say why they were willing to go beyond the highest valuation provided by their valuers for the site.
The DDDA invested €32.8m in the purchase of the site and has since "accrued interest and working capital costs of €37.6 m", Maloney said. The loan is being renegotiated as it was held on a two-year initial facility.
The DDDA has begun public consultations on the future of the South Wharf site and other land under its planning jurisdiction in the Poolbeg peninsula. Maloney said the plan is to have taller buildings facing Dublin Bay and that "they would become smaller towards Seán Moore Park". To the south, he said, "many of the buildings will be houses rather than apartment blocks and the developments will be under six storeys". The tallest building will be 15 to 18 storeys, he said.
Other assets owned by the authority include CHQ, the shopping centre in the IFSC that has struggled to attract tenants and faces significant competition from Harry Crosbie's Point Village, a major retail scheme for Spencer Dock planned by Treasury Holdings and its partners and a district centre planned for Poolbeg.
Maloney also revealed that the authority is considering bailing out developers by purchasing empty apartments in the docklands for social and affordable housing. Apartment prices in the docklands have plummeted since the collapse of the property bubble. One-bed units in Liam Carroll's Castleforbes Square development, for example, were priced at almost €350,000 two years ago; last week they were launched on the market with prices starting at €204,000. Two-bed apartments that were €440,000 now have a starting price of €250,000.
Maloney said the DDDA has held talks with the Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government "in an attempt to use empty apartments for social and affordable housing. The rental accommodation scheme is in place and we are examining it. I understand further affordable housing initiatives will soon be taken by the department. The affordable units we are selling in the docklands are priced well below market values but are selling and people are moving into them … I expect new initiatives to emerge in the coming weeks and months".
Sunday Tribune
www.buckplanning.ie
DDDA chief executive Paul Maloney with Anglo Irish Bank chairman Donal O'Connor
The South Wharf site at Poolbeg in south Dublin which was bought for €412m but is now valued at between €90m and €125m
The Dublin Docklands Development Authority (DDDA) is facing a substantial write-down in the value of its assets after the collapse in the property market. DDDA chief executive Paul Maloney confirmed to the Oireachtas committee on environment that most of its assets, which were valued at €177m last year, are "development assets". Development land has been the most adversely affected sector in the property downturn.
Chief among its assets is its stake in the South Wharf site at Poolbeg in south Dublin which was bought for €412m. Following Maloney's revelation that the state body and its partners are not paying interest on the loan to nationalised Anglo Irish Bank, the Sunday Tribune obtained three valuations of the site. The independent experts valued the land at €90m, €120m and €125m respectively, well below Maloney's assertion that he expects the site to be written down by just 20%-30% when it is valued in the coming weeks.
Maloney admitted that the value of the DDDA's assets "will be far lower this year, as we go through our annual accounts. We are determined that the €2.5m currently in the accounts for the next three years for community and social education purposes will not be affected. We have a borrowing facility with National Irish Bank. I want to make it clear that it's in place to help us through what we expect will be a difficult period". He claimed that the current downturn in the market is "cyclical".
The news that taxpayer-owned Anglo Irish Bank, and apparently Allied Irish Bank, limited the recourse on the loan to the land and the €100m guarantee, despite the loan being closer to €300m, also shocked observers. Maloney said it took a 26% stake in Becbay, the company that bought the site, to ensure it had voting rights. He also revealed that the site was valued at between €250m and €370m when it came on the market.
"We insisted that although we were taking a 26% stake in the site, we would not go beyond €375m. Our 26% was only up to that proportion; anything over it we left to the developers to take at their own risk, which they did," he told the committee. He did not say why they were willing to go beyond the highest valuation provided by their valuers for the site.
The DDDA invested €32.8m in the purchase of the site and has since "accrued interest and working capital costs of €37.6 m", Maloney said. The loan is being renegotiated as it was held on a two-year initial facility.
The DDDA has begun public consultations on the future of the South Wharf site and other land under its planning jurisdiction in the Poolbeg peninsula. Maloney said the plan is to have taller buildings facing Dublin Bay and that "they would become smaller towards Seán Moore Park". To the south, he said, "many of the buildings will be houses rather than apartment blocks and the developments will be under six storeys". The tallest building will be 15 to 18 storeys, he said.
Other assets owned by the authority include CHQ, the shopping centre in the IFSC that has struggled to attract tenants and faces significant competition from Harry Crosbie's Point Village, a major retail scheme for Spencer Dock planned by Treasury Holdings and its partners and a district centre planned for Poolbeg.
Maloney also revealed that the authority is considering bailing out developers by purchasing empty apartments in the docklands for social and affordable housing. Apartment prices in the docklands have plummeted since the collapse of the property bubble. One-bed units in Liam Carroll's Castleforbes Square development, for example, were priced at almost €350,000 two years ago; last week they were launched on the market with prices starting at €204,000. Two-bed apartments that were €440,000 now have a starting price of €250,000.
Maloney said the DDDA has held talks with the Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government "in an attempt to use empty apartments for social and affordable housing. The rental accommodation scheme is in place and we are examining it. I understand further affordable housing initiatives will soon be taken by the department. The affordable units we are selling in the docklands are priced well below market values but are selling and people are moving into them … I expect new initiatives to emerge in the coming weeks and months".
Sunday Tribune
www.buckplanning.ie
Treasury Holdings set to take case against Crosbie
Treasury Holdings is seeking to take a commercial court case against businessman Harry Crosbie in a dispute that is believed to be related to the Spencer Dock development on Dublin's north quays.
Crosbie and Treasury Holdings both own land there that is being developed as a joint venture.
Treasury Holdings refused to comment on the issue and a spokesman for Crosbie said the businessman also had no comment to make.
Richard Barrett, who owns Treasury Holdings with business partner Johnny Ronan, lodged an affidavit last week in relation to the case.
Last week, the Spencer Dock Development Company, owned by Treasury
Holdings and Crosbie, received planning permission for an eight-storey office building. It is also currently seeking to develop an 11-storey office building with shops on the ground floor.
Crosbie is currently constructing an €850m shopping centre near Spencer Dock. He recently took a legal action against Dunnes Stores, claiming he had not been paid for construction work on their store there.
Sunday Tribune
www.buckplanning.ie
Crosbie and Treasury Holdings both own land there that is being developed as a joint venture.
Treasury Holdings refused to comment on the issue and a spokesman for Crosbie said the businessman also had no comment to make.
Richard Barrett, who owns Treasury Holdings with business partner Johnny Ronan, lodged an affidavit last week in relation to the case.
Last week, the Spencer Dock Development Company, owned by Treasury
Holdings and Crosbie, received planning permission for an eight-storey office building. It is also currently seeking to develop an 11-storey office building with shops on the ground floor.
Crosbie is currently constructing an €850m shopping centre near Spencer Dock. He recently took a legal action against Dunnes Stores, claiming he had not been paid for construction work on their store there.
Sunday Tribune
www.buckplanning.ie
DDDA now facing further probes from Oireachtas
The Dublin Docklands Development Authority (DDDA) faces further probes from the Oireachtas about its decision to enter a joint venture to purchase a €411m South Wharf site in Poolbeg.
Fine Gael front bencher Phil Hogan, who grilled senior executive members of the DDDA last week on the land deal, said he will discuss the authority with other members of the Oireachtas environment committee on Tuesday. He added that he "would be calling for further exploration of various outstanding matters" such as the Poolbeg site and the U2 tower site.
Hogan is also looking for a valuation of the 26-acre South Wharf site to be carried out by an "independent valuer who has no association with a financial institution".
DDDA chief executive Paul Maloney said last week that he expects the site to be written down by about 30%, a claim dismissed as "nonsense" by one senior development land expert.
The Sunday Tribune obtained three so-called "desk-bound" valuations of the site last week from land experts which valued the site at €90m, €120m and €125m respectively, meaning the site has lost about €300m in value since it was purchased.
Davy has told clients who invested in the scheme that they wrote it down by 60% of its investment following a revaluation estimating its value at about €165m. The DDDA also faces substantial other writedowns on its CHQ retail complex and its other land-holdings in the docklands.
The DDDA revealed last week that Becbay, the vehicle that acquired the site, has not been paying interest on the loan on the land, pending a renegotiation of terms, since the second half of 2008. Developer Bernard McNamara and former revenue tax inspector Derek Quinlan are the other members of the consortium.
Hogan said former DDDA chairman and Anglo Irish Bank director Lar Bradshaw "did not declare a conflict of interest" in relation to the fact that he was a client of Quinlan's private wealth management business.
Maloney also confirmed that Bradshaw did not declare his business relationship with Paul Coulson – the main person behind South Wharf, the vendor of the Poolbeg site – according to Hogan.
Bradshaw and Coulson, via a company called Balcuik, are investors in property in Sandyford together with former Anglo chairman Seán FitzPatrick. "Bradshaw completed his term as chairman of the DDDA on 30 June 2007, therefore he is no longer on the board of the authority. No information has been brought to the authority about Balcuik," a spokeswoman for the authority said.
The DDDA also refused to comment on whether Maloney or other members of the authority hired corporate communications expert Terry Prone for presentation and media training prior to its appearance at last week's committee hearing.
Sunday Tribune
www.buckplanning.ie
Fine Gael front bencher Phil Hogan, who grilled senior executive members of the DDDA last week on the land deal, said he will discuss the authority with other members of the Oireachtas environment committee on Tuesday. He added that he "would be calling for further exploration of various outstanding matters" such as the Poolbeg site and the U2 tower site.
Hogan is also looking for a valuation of the 26-acre South Wharf site to be carried out by an "independent valuer who has no association with a financial institution".
DDDA chief executive Paul Maloney said last week that he expects the site to be written down by about 30%, a claim dismissed as "nonsense" by one senior development land expert.
The Sunday Tribune obtained three so-called "desk-bound" valuations of the site last week from land experts which valued the site at €90m, €120m and €125m respectively, meaning the site has lost about €300m in value since it was purchased.
Davy has told clients who invested in the scheme that they wrote it down by 60% of its investment following a revaluation estimating its value at about €165m. The DDDA also faces substantial other writedowns on its CHQ retail complex and its other land-holdings in the docklands.
The DDDA revealed last week that Becbay, the vehicle that acquired the site, has not been paying interest on the loan on the land, pending a renegotiation of terms, since the second half of 2008. Developer Bernard McNamara and former revenue tax inspector Derek Quinlan are the other members of the consortium.
Hogan said former DDDA chairman and Anglo Irish Bank director Lar Bradshaw "did not declare a conflict of interest" in relation to the fact that he was a client of Quinlan's private wealth management business.
Maloney also confirmed that Bradshaw did not declare his business relationship with Paul Coulson – the main person behind South Wharf, the vendor of the Poolbeg site – according to Hogan.
Bradshaw and Coulson, via a company called Balcuik, are investors in property in Sandyford together with former Anglo chairman Seán FitzPatrick. "Bradshaw completed his term as chairman of the DDDA on 30 June 2007, therefore he is no longer on the board of the authority. No information has been brought to the authority about Balcuik," a spokeswoman for the authority said.
The DDDA also refused to comment on whether Maloney or other members of the authority hired corporate communications expert Terry Prone for presentation and media training prior to its appearance at last week's committee hearing.
Sunday Tribune
www.buckplanning.ie
Liam Carroll hit with five fresh High Court actions
Developer Liam Carroll is facing multiple court battles after five new High Court cases were lodged against him since the start of the year.
Retailer Marks & Spencer (Ireland), which is a tenant of Carroll in his Tallaght scheme, and estate agent Savills, are among those to have issued legal proceedings against the developer's company Danninger. Mercury Engineering, Coolair and Fire Design Solutions have also taken proceedings against Danninger.
Carroll is one of the biggest housebuilders in Dublin. He has recently slashed prices at some of his developments. A winding-up petition was brought against Danninger last year but the order was avoided after Carroll settled with a photographic agency.
Carroll faces more headaches because rival developer Seán Dunne has appealed the decision by Dublin City Council (DCC) to allow the retention of offices earmarked for Anglo Irish Bank at Dublin's north quays. Carroll is using a vehicle called North Quay Investments (NQI) for the scheme.
A decision on the appeal is not due until June. It is unclear how that delay will affect Carroll's commitments to the building's tenants. He was given the go-ahead by the Dublin Docklands Development Authority because it was "critical" for his company to receive planning "within the said 12-month timeframe to allow NQI to honour its commitments to certain prospective tenants at North Wall Quay". That permission was later the subject of a legal action and was not upheld by the courts. The Spencer Dock Development Company, part-owned by Treasury Holdings, has also sought leave to appeal DCC's verdict to An Bord Pleanála.
Dunne is due in court on Wednesday in a commercial court case involving a dispute over fees with his former property advisers, CBRE.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Retailer Marks & Spencer (Ireland), which is a tenant of Carroll in his Tallaght scheme, and estate agent Savills, are among those to have issued legal proceedings against the developer's company Danninger. Mercury Engineering, Coolair and Fire Design Solutions have also taken proceedings against Danninger.
Carroll is one of the biggest housebuilders in Dublin. He has recently slashed prices at some of his developments. A winding-up petition was brought against Danninger last year but the order was avoided after Carroll settled with a photographic agency.
Carroll faces more headaches because rival developer Seán Dunne has appealed the decision by Dublin City Council (DCC) to allow the retention of offices earmarked for Anglo Irish Bank at Dublin's north quays. Carroll is using a vehicle called North Quay Investments (NQI) for the scheme.
A decision on the appeal is not due until June. It is unclear how that delay will affect Carroll's commitments to the building's tenants. He was given the go-ahead by the Dublin Docklands Development Authority because it was "critical" for his company to receive planning "within the said 12-month timeframe to allow NQI to honour its commitments to certain prospective tenants at North Wall Quay". That permission was later the subject of a legal action and was not upheld by the courts. The Spencer Dock Development Company, part-owned by Treasury Holdings, has also sought leave to appeal DCC's verdict to An Bord Pleanála.
Dunne is due in court on Wednesday in a commercial court case involving a dispute over fees with his former property advisers, CBRE.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Bike depots to open in March
ORTY depots for free public bikes in Dublin are to be rolled out next month in the final stages of a controversial deal between Dublin City Council and the French firm JC Decaux.
Around 120 separate locations for the bike bases were considered by council officials, which will be split with 55% of sites on the southside of the city and 45% on the northside.
However, while the final decisions are being made on the whereabouts of bike stations, the contract between JC Decaux and the council is still to be examined by an audit committee in order to establish its value for money.
The company has been supplied with some 72 advertising boards worth around €1m a year in exchange for providing the city with 450 bicycles which can be used by the public.
In a statement to the Sunday Tribune, Dublin City Council said that as part of the recent selection procedure for the bike depots, officials had to take into account "underground services constraints, allowing for future Metro/Luas works etc".
Each station will have a "monitoring system" which will automatically communicate information to a distribution centre on the amount of rentals and returns at each station.
"On a frequent basis throughout the day the stations are visited and checked by staff who will redistribute the bicycles to ensure that there are opportunities to take or return a bicycle at each station."
Each depot will have a maximum capacity for around 20 bikes.
Sunday Tribune
www.buckplanning.ie
Around 120 separate locations for the bike bases were considered by council officials, which will be split with 55% of sites on the southside of the city and 45% on the northside.
However, while the final decisions are being made on the whereabouts of bike stations, the contract between JC Decaux and the council is still to be examined by an audit committee in order to establish its value for money.
The company has been supplied with some 72 advertising boards worth around €1m a year in exchange for providing the city with 450 bicycles which can be used by the public.
In a statement to the Sunday Tribune, Dublin City Council said that as part of the recent selection procedure for the bike depots, officials had to take into account "underground services constraints, allowing for future Metro/Luas works etc".
Each station will have a "monitoring system" which will automatically communicate information to a distribution centre on the amount of rentals and returns at each station.
"On a frequent basis throughout the day the stations are visited and checked by staff who will redistribute the bicycles to ensure that there are opportunities to take or return a bicycle at each station."
Each depot will have a maximum capacity for around 20 bikes.
Sunday Tribune
www.buckplanning.ie
Bicycle rental scheme to go ahead
The French scheme was introduced 18 months ago with 20,000 bicycles, but 7,800 have already been stolen and 1 1,600 have been vandalised or damaged, according to figures released by JCDecaux.
Re¤mi Pheulpin, director general of JCDecaux, told French media the scheme was unsustainable since all of the costs were borne by the company, while the revenues went to the city. He said a private company could not shoulder the burden alone.
However, a spokesman for Dublin City Council said the situation in Paris would not have any impact on plans for the Dublin scheme. He said the council had a 15-year contract with JCDecaux, which sees the advertising firm bear sole responsibility for the replacement and maintenance of the bicycles.
Under the terms of the Dublin deal, JCDecaux is to supply 450 bikes in exchange for 72 advertising panels in city centre locations.
The council spokesman said that ‘‘enabling work’’ for the scheme was due to begin next month and it would take three to four months before the scheme would be in operation. The council has already identified 40 sites at which bikes will be installed in racks around the city for use by the public.
The scheme will be electronically run, with users pre-paying for use either through a smart card or credit card.
Sunday Business Post
www.buckplanning.ie
Re¤mi Pheulpin, director general of JCDecaux, told French media the scheme was unsustainable since all of the costs were borne by the company, while the revenues went to the city. He said a private company could not shoulder the burden alone.
However, a spokesman for Dublin City Council said the situation in Paris would not have any impact on plans for the Dublin scheme. He said the council had a 15-year contract with JCDecaux, which sees the advertising firm bear sole responsibility for the replacement and maintenance of the bicycles.
Under the terms of the Dublin deal, JCDecaux is to supply 450 bikes in exchange for 72 advertising panels in city centre locations.
The council spokesman said that ‘‘enabling work’’ for the scheme was due to begin next month and it would take three to four months before the scheme would be in operation. The council has already identified 40 sites at which bikes will be installed in racks around the city for use by the public.
The scheme will be electronically run, with users pre-paying for use either through a smart card or credit card.
Sunday Business Post
www.buckplanning.ie
Friday, 13 February 2009
Fit for the Kingdom: Town plans iconic cultural centre
SYDNEY has its famous opera house and Bilbao has its futuristic Guggenheim museum but Kenmare has unveiled its own ambitious plans to attract thousands of visitors to the Kingdom.
In a bid to breathe new life into a seriously ailing tourism industry, the Kerry town has backed a €12.5m project to build an "iconic" centre for contemporary Irish culture on a site overlooking Kenmare Bay.
Corporate donors are being sought but the public will also be invited to row in behind the project by contributing towards the cost by sponsoring window panes in the centre, roof slates and even car parking spaces.
News of the project came as Tourism Minister Martin Cullen -- who yesterday met the heads of 15 state tourism agencies, state arts bodies, and cultural institutions -- announced new moves to develop the country's cultural tourism market.
Visitors
The new centre, which has yet to be named, will stage yearly exhibitions and will target visitors from Switzerland, France, Germany, Italy and the UK, with a projected footfall of 90,000 visitors a year.
To be owned by a 'not for profit' trust, the building will have seven galleries and a viewing tower and will employ 10 full-time and six part-time staff.
Plans will be submitted by the end of the year for the 2,053 sq mts, 21-metre tall structure which is expected to be up and running by 2012.
The centre is designed by Irish architect Niall McLaughlin who designed a new interpretative centre on Loch Ness in Scotland.
Up to €1m has been pledged in corporate donations and a grant application for up to 50pc has been lodged already.
FERGUS BLACK
Irish Independent
www.buckplanning.ie
In a bid to breathe new life into a seriously ailing tourism industry, the Kerry town has backed a €12.5m project to build an "iconic" centre for contemporary Irish culture on a site overlooking Kenmare Bay.
Corporate donors are being sought but the public will also be invited to row in behind the project by contributing towards the cost by sponsoring window panes in the centre, roof slates and even car parking spaces.
News of the project came as Tourism Minister Martin Cullen -- who yesterday met the heads of 15 state tourism agencies, state arts bodies, and cultural institutions -- announced new moves to develop the country's cultural tourism market.
Visitors
The new centre, which has yet to be named, will stage yearly exhibitions and will target visitors from Switzerland, France, Germany, Italy and the UK, with a projected footfall of 90,000 visitors a year.
To be owned by a 'not for profit' trust, the building will have seven galleries and a viewing tower and will employ 10 full-time and six part-time staff.
Plans will be submitted by the end of the year for the 2,053 sq mts, 21-metre tall structure which is expected to be up and running by 2012.
The centre is designed by Irish architect Niall McLaughlin who designed a new interpretative centre on Loch Ness in Scotland.
Up to €1m has been pledged in corporate donations and a grant application for up to 50pc has been lodged already.
FERGUS BLACK
Irish Independent
www.buckplanning.ie
State pays €2m for majority landholding on Great Blasket
THE STATE has purchased the majority landholding on the Great Blasket Island, off the coast of Co Kerry, ending years of protracted and often fractious negotiations to acquire the island.
However, Peig Sayers’s house and some tourist amenities will remain in private ownership.
The purchase of most of the landholdings of An Blascaod Mór Teo will bring most of the island into public ownership, Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government John Gormley said.
This would pave the way towards establishing the island as a national historic park and developing sustainable tourism, Mr Gormley said in a joint statement with Minister of State Dr Martin Mansergh, who has special responsibility for Arts and the Office of Public Works.
Worries have been increasingly voiced about the dire condition of the island’s old village, and the need to protect its rare wildlife and manage visitor numbers on the island, which has no proper pier, public toilet or facilities for the hundreds who are ferried to it daily in the summer.
The deal with An Blascaod Mór Teo, which owns 17 of the 25 landholdings on the 1,100-acre Great Blasket, was finalised this week, with €2 million provided by Mr Gormley’s department.
The money includes ferry rights.
The Minister described the purchase as “a major advancement of the objective to preserve an important component of our national cultural, historic and linguistic heritage”.
The island is associated with major Irish literary figures such as Sayers, Tomás Ó Criomhthain and Muiris Ó Súilleabháin.
Mr Gormley said it represented good value for money, given the potential of the asset for tourism in the region. Dr Mansergh said the Great Blasket was “a very special addition to the wide portfolio of heritage properties managed by OPW”.
An Blascaod Mór Teo will retain a number of properties, including Peig Sayers’s house. A small number of other properties will remain in individual private ownership also. Last year An Bord Pleanála granted the company, spearheaded by Dingle solicitor Peter Callery, permission for a cafe and services building.
For more than 20 years, the State has tried to acquire the property from An Blascaod Mór Teo. The 1989 Blasket Island Act introduced by then taoiseach Charles Haughey, who owned one of the Blaskets, would have seen compulsory purchase of the island, but it was struck down by the Supreme Court in 1999, after a challenge by the private company.
There have been disputes over ferry rights, with bouncers placed on the island to prevent other private operators landing.
An ambitious forum begun by then Kerry county manager Martin Nolan brought the various parties together, including descendants of islanders now living in the US, and hammered out a common vision for the island.
The ultimate aim of that vision is to see the Great Blasket as a Unesco World Heritage Site.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
However, Peig Sayers’s house and some tourist amenities will remain in private ownership.
The purchase of most of the landholdings of An Blascaod Mór Teo will bring most of the island into public ownership, Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government John Gormley said.
This would pave the way towards establishing the island as a national historic park and developing sustainable tourism, Mr Gormley said in a joint statement with Minister of State Dr Martin Mansergh, who has special responsibility for Arts and the Office of Public Works.
Worries have been increasingly voiced about the dire condition of the island’s old village, and the need to protect its rare wildlife and manage visitor numbers on the island, which has no proper pier, public toilet or facilities for the hundreds who are ferried to it daily in the summer.
The deal with An Blascaod Mór Teo, which owns 17 of the 25 landholdings on the 1,100-acre Great Blasket, was finalised this week, with €2 million provided by Mr Gormley’s department.
The money includes ferry rights.
The Minister described the purchase as “a major advancement of the objective to preserve an important component of our national cultural, historic and linguistic heritage”.
The island is associated with major Irish literary figures such as Sayers, Tomás Ó Criomhthain and Muiris Ó Súilleabháin.
Mr Gormley said it represented good value for money, given the potential of the asset for tourism in the region. Dr Mansergh said the Great Blasket was “a very special addition to the wide portfolio of heritage properties managed by OPW”.
An Blascaod Mór Teo will retain a number of properties, including Peig Sayers’s house. A small number of other properties will remain in individual private ownership also. Last year An Bord Pleanála granted the company, spearheaded by Dingle solicitor Peter Callery, permission for a cafe and services building.
For more than 20 years, the State has tried to acquire the property from An Blascaod Mór Teo. The 1989 Blasket Island Act introduced by then taoiseach Charles Haughey, who owned one of the Blaskets, would have seen compulsory purchase of the island, but it was struck down by the Supreme Court in 1999, after a challenge by the private company.
There have been disputes over ferry rights, with bouncers placed on the island to prevent other private operators landing.
An ambitious forum begun by then Kerry county manager Martin Nolan brought the various parties together, including descendants of islanders now living in the US, and hammered out a common vision for the island.
The ultimate aim of that vision is to see the Great Blasket as a Unesco World Heritage Site.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Number of homes built last year falls by one-third
DECLINES IN the housing market resulted in the construction of one-third fewer homes in 2008 than in 2007, according to figures which will be released today by the Department of the Environment.
Of the 51,724 houses built in 2008 more than one-third (34 per cent) were one-off houses, up from one-quarter in 2007. The proportion of apartments built held relatively steady – accounting for 25 per cent of completions in 2008 and 24.1 per cent in 2007.
The development of housing estates saw the biggest decline. The construction of housing schemes fell by 10 per cent as a proportion of the sector to 49 per cent. However, in absolute numbers 21,127 estate houses were built last year, down from 39,273 in 2007 – a fall of 46 per cent.
Some of the largest declines were in the Dublin commuter belt. In Fingal, the number of homes built fell by almost 55 per cent, from 4,725 to 2,149; south Dublin had a 46 per cent fall from 3,270 to 1,758. Kildare, Cavan and Laois also experienced large declines. In Kildare, the number of homes completed fell from 3,118 to 1,811, a decline of 42 per cent; in Cavan the numbers almost halved from 2,108 to 1,262; and in Laois there was a 47 per cent fall from 2,117 to 1,156.
The largest decline was in Longford. In 2007, 1,579 homes were built there. Last year that fell to just 584 – a decline of 63 per cent.
Nowhere escaped the decline in construction, but north Tipperary saw the least change with the number of residential completions falling from 1,041 to 978 – a fall of just over 6 per cent.
The figures will be formally published by the Minister of State for Housing Michael Finneran today. The fall in the demand for housing made now the ideal time to focus on the quality of house construction and housing for the less well-off, Mr Finneran said.
“While there is an easing off in housing activity, and recognising the difficulties currently facing the public finances, the Government is committed to focus on quality in the provision of housing and to addressing the housing needs of the less well-off in our society.”
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Of the 51,724 houses built in 2008 more than one-third (34 per cent) were one-off houses, up from one-quarter in 2007. The proportion of apartments built held relatively steady – accounting for 25 per cent of completions in 2008 and 24.1 per cent in 2007.
The development of housing estates saw the biggest decline. The construction of housing schemes fell by 10 per cent as a proportion of the sector to 49 per cent. However, in absolute numbers 21,127 estate houses were built last year, down from 39,273 in 2007 – a fall of 46 per cent.
Some of the largest declines were in the Dublin commuter belt. In Fingal, the number of homes built fell by almost 55 per cent, from 4,725 to 2,149; south Dublin had a 46 per cent fall from 3,270 to 1,758. Kildare, Cavan and Laois also experienced large declines. In Kildare, the number of homes completed fell from 3,118 to 1,811, a decline of 42 per cent; in Cavan the numbers almost halved from 2,108 to 1,262; and in Laois there was a 47 per cent fall from 2,117 to 1,156.
The largest decline was in Longford. In 2007, 1,579 homes were built there. Last year that fell to just 584 – a decline of 63 per cent.
Nowhere escaped the decline in construction, but north Tipperary saw the least change with the number of residential completions falling from 1,041 to 978 – a fall of just over 6 per cent.
The figures will be formally published by the Minister of State for Housing Michael Finneran today. The fall in the demand for housing made now the ideal time to focus on the quality of house construction and housing for the less well-off, Mr Finneran said.
“While there is an easing off in housing activity, and recognising the difficulties currently facing the public finances, the Government is committed to focus on quality in the provision of housing and to addressing the housing needs of the less well-off in our society.”
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Council rejects plan for key D4 site
KIRMBURN LTD, a company owned by well-known property developers Jerry O’Reilly and David Courtney , has been refused planning permission to develop the Faculty Building on Shelbourne Road in Ballsbridge, Dublin 4 into a nine-storey office building.
Dublin City Council has turned down the proposal for the site next to the Berkeley Court Hotel because its scale would injure nearby residential amenities in Ballsbridge and because of its lack of visual integration with its surroundings.
The developers were looking to demolish the six-storey office building and replace it with a taller building that would range in height between five and eight storeys fronting Shelbourne Road with a total floor area of 9,952sq m (107,122sq ft).
The overall height of the building would be nine storeys, with a three-level basement to accommodate 50 car-parking spaces.
Businessman Dermot Desmond , a high profile opponent of a number of developments in Ballsbridge – including Sean Dunne ’s recently rejected proposal for a 37-storey tower on the Jurys/Berkeley Court site and David Daly ’s plans to build an eight storey office building at Franklin House – also lodged an objection to this development.
He asked the council to refuse permission, saying it is premature pending the implementation of a local area plan.
Kirmburn bought the Faculty Building from the Office of Public Works for €35.9 million at the height of the Ballsbridge buying frenzy in March 2006.
Courtney and O’Reilly have undertaken a number of major developments, most notably the award-winning Elm Park development beside the Dart in south Co Dublin, where Bernard McNamara is also a partner.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Dublin City Council has turned down the proposal for the site next to the Berkeley Court Hotel because its scale would injure nearby residential amenities in Ballsbridge and because of its lack of visual integration with its surroundings.
The developers were looking to demolish the six-storey office building and replace it with a taller building that would range in height between five and eight storeys fronting Shelbourne Road with a total floor area of 9,952sq m (107,122sq ft).
The overall height of the building would be nine storeys, with a three-level basement to accommodate 50 car-parking spaces.
Businessman Dermot Desmond , a high profile opponent of a number of developments in Ballsbridge – including Sean Dunne ’s recently rejected proposal for a 37-storey tower on the Jurys/Berkeley Court site and David Daly ’s plans to build an eight storey office building at Franklin House – also lodged an objection to this development.
He asked the council to refuse permission, saying it is premature pending the implementation of a local area plan.
Kirmburn bought the Faculty Building from the Office of Public Works for €35.9 million at the height of the Ballsbridge buying frenzy in March 2006.
Courtney and O’Reilly have undertaken a number of major developments, most notably the award-winning Elm Park development beside the Dart in south Co Dublin, where Bernard McNamara is also a partner.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Adamstown wins planning award
NEWTOWN: ADAMSTOWN, THE new neighbourhood being built by Joe O'Reilly's Castlethorn Construction on the west side of Dublin, has won a “Sustainable Communities” award from the UK’s Royal Town Planning Institute.
It was the only non-UK project to pick up a prize at the annual awards ceremony, and was entered by South Dublin County Council and Chartridge, the developers (comprising Castlethorn Construction, Maplewood Homes and Tierra Construction).
The award recognises that Adamstown has been properly planned and balances living accommodation with infrastructure, such as shops, cinema, train station, swimming pool, library, health centres, restaurants, schools, mixed places of worship and parks, among other facilities.
Adamstown is Ireland’s first Strategic Development Zone, which means that the construction of homes runs in tandem with such facilities. The judges praised the design and layout of Adamstown for its “modern vernacular” and said it would be a “model for development elsewhere”.
It is taking 10 years to build and eventually 30,000 people are expected to live in the town which is 16kms west of Dublin, making it of a similar size, population wise, to Drogheda and Dundalk.
Already 1,000 homes have been built, housing around 3,000 people. This year will see the completion of a secondary school and the upgrading of tracks to enable more daily trains to and from Adamstown Station.
This summer work will start on Adamstown Central, on which seven high-profile architectural practices have worked together to create a classic town centre with shops, cinema, restaurants and so on in a mix of designs that fit into an overall framework designed by Metropolitan Workshop.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
It was the only non-UK project to pick up a prize at the annual awards ceremony, and was entered by South Dublin County Council and Chartridge, the developers (comprising Castlethorn Construction, Maplewood Homes and Tierra Construction).
The award recognises that Adamstown has been properly planned and balances living accommodation with infrastructure, such as shops, cinema, train station, swimming pool, library, health centres, restaurants, schools, mixed places of worship and parks, among other facilities.
Adamstown is Ireland’s first Strategic Development Zone, which means that the construction of homes runs in tandem with such facilities. The judges praised the design and layout of Adamstown for its “modern vernacular” and said it would be a “model for development elsewhere”.
It is taking 10 years to build and eventually 30,000 people are expected to live in the town which is 16kms west of Dublin, making it of a similar size, population wise, to Drogheda and Dundalk.
Already 1,000 homes have been built, housing around 3,000 people. This year will see the completion of a secondary school and the upgrading of tracks to enable more daily trains to and from Adamstown Station.
This summer work will start on Adamstown Central, on which seven high-profile architectural practices have worked together to create a classic town centre with shops, cinema, restaurants and so on in a mix of designs that fit into an overall framework designed by Metropolitan Workshop.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Planning for Sligo development turned down
A PLANNED neighbourhood centre on the outskirts of Sligo town, comprising 324 houses and apartments, a creche, a supermarket, and nine retail units has been turned down by An Bord Pleanála.
Last June, Sligo County Council granted approval for the development on a five-hectare site, with views of Ben Bulben, at the junction of the N15 Sligo/Donegal road and the old Bundoran road.
It had been anticipated that the project, the biggest private residential and retail development ever to be granted planning permission by the council,could have facilitated a population of more than 1,000.
It incorporated 558 car-parking spaces and a medical centre and would have involved the demolition of four houses.
The board upheld an appeal by local resident Martin Doonan of Old Bundoran Road, Sligo, against the council’s decision to grant permission to two Galway companies, Cordil Construction and Knocknacarra Investments, for the development.
Mr Doonan maintained that the project would endanger the safety of his family because of traffic hazard.
The board found the proposed development three kilometres from the centre of Sligo would be premature pending the realignment of the N15and it would endanger public safety by reason of traffic hazard.
It also ruled that a large-scale development rising to six storeys in an existing rural area would be premature in this location, that it would constitute over-development and would be visually discordant in a rural setting on an elevated site above Sligo town.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Last June, Sligo County Council granted approval for the development on a five-hectare site, with views of Ben Bulben, at the junction of the N15 Sligo/Donegal road and the old Bundoran road.
It had been anticipated that the project, the biggest private residential and retail development ever to be granted planning permission by the council,could have facilitated a population of more than 1,000.
It incorporated 558 car-parking spaces and a medical centre and would have involved the demolition of four houses.
The board upheld an appeal by local resident Martin Doonan of Old Bundoran Road, Sligo, against the council’s decision to grant permission to two Galway companies, Cordil Construction and Knocknacarra Investments, for the development.
Mr Doonan maintained that the project would endanger the safety of his family because of traffic hazard.
The board found the proposed development three kilometres from the centre of Sligo would be premature pending the realignment of the N15and it would endanger public safety by reason of traffic hazard.
It also ruled that a large-scale development rising to six storeys in an existing rural area would be premature in this location, that it would constitute over-development and would be visually discordant in a rural setting on an elevated site above Sligo town.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Dublin City Council presents plans to build 22km cycle route around bay
PLANS TO build Europe’s longest urban seafront promenade and cycle path, extending 22km from Sutton to Sandycove, have been revealed by Dublin City Council.
The initial designs for the long-awaited Sutton to Sandycove (S2S) cycleway, which was first proposed in 2002, were shown yesterday to city councillors.
The eight metre-wide path, which will run next to the coast for most of its length and will form part of the city’s flood defences, will be developed in four stages.
The first, S2S north, will close the gap in the current promenade and cycle path running from Clontarf to Sutton. This path was put in place by the council in the early 1990s but a gap was left between the Bull Wall and the Wooden Bridge because no solution could be found to building on the environmentally sensitive lagoon area.
The new design solution is to combine a pile-supported promenade, retaining wall and cable stayed cycle facility. The environmental impact assessment has recently been approved by An Bord Pleanála.
The next section of the route is the S2S city centre link, connecting Alfie Byrne Road to Sandymount. Minister for the Environment John Gormley allocated €3 million to the project in his carbon budget last October.
In addition to a direct route from Clontarf, through East Wall across the East Link Bridge to Ringsend, there will be additional cycle links to the city centre and new crossing points for bicycles.
The third part, which will cause the council the most logistical difficulties, is the S2S south. The council has divided this stretch into four sections: section A: Seán Moore Park to Merrion Gates; section B: Merrion Gates to Brighton Vale; section C: Brighton Vale to Dún Laoghaire West Pier, and section D: West Pier to the East Pier.
While the first part of the route has an existing promenade, the Dart meets the coast at the Merrion Gates, effectively blocking off any promenade access. There are also houses backing on to the sea at several parts of the route, as well as EU-protected habitats for birds and other wildlife.
The final section, from Dún Laoghaire to Sandycove, will be developed separately by Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council.
No date has yet has been given for the route’s start or completion.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
The initial designs for the long-awaited Sutton to Sandycove (S2S) cycleway, which was first proposed in 2002, were shown yesterday to city councillors.
The eight metre-wide path, which will run next to the coast for most of its length and will form part of the city’s flood defences, will be developed in four stages.
The first, S2S north, will close the gap in the current promenade and cycle path running from Clontarf to Sutton. This path was put in place by the council in the early 1990s but a gap was left between the Bull Wall and the Wooden Bridge because no solution could be found to building on the environmentally sensitive lagoon area.
The new design solution is to combine a pile-supported promenade, retaining wall and cable stayed cycle facility. The environmental impact assessment has recently been approved by An Bord Pleanála.
The next section of the route is the S2S city centre link, connecting Alfie Byrne Road to Sandymount. Minister for the Environment John Gormley allocated €3 million to the project in his carbon budget last October.
In addition to a direct route from Clontarf, through East Wall across the East Link Bridge to Ringsend, there will be additional cycle links to the city centre and new crossing points for bicycles.
The third part, which will cause the council the most logistical difficulties, is the S2S south. The council has divided this stretch into four sections: section A: Seán Moore Park to Merrion Gates; section B: Merrion Gates to Brighton Vale; section C: Brighton Vale to Dún Laoghaire West Pier, and section D: West Pier to the East Pier.
While the first part of the route has an existing promenade, the Dart meets the coast at the Merrion Gates, effectively blocking off any promenade access. There are also houses backing on to the sea at several parts of the route, as well as EU-protected habitats for birds and other wildlife.
The final section, from Dún Laoghaire to Sandycove, will be developed separately by Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council.
No date has yet has been given for the route’s start or completion.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Underground cables 'would cost €500m more'
USING UNDERGROUND cables for a proposed high-power electricity link between Meath and Tyrone will cost €500 million more than putting them overhead, a new report says.
National grid operator Eirgrid plans to build a 70km high-voltage electricity connector through Meath, Cavan, Monaghan, Armagh and Tyrone over the next three years.
It will be part of the national grid, the core of the electricity distribution network. Local people want the State agency to run the power lines underground for environmental and health reasons.
Eirgrid released the findings of a report it and Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) commissioned from experts Parsons Brinckerhoff (PB Power) yesterday.
It shows that the underground option would cost €588 million, as against €81 million for overhead lines. Maintenance costs for underground cables would run to €73 million over their lifespan, €29 million more than it would cost for overhead lines.
Its author, Mark Winfield of PB Power, said yesterday that two other reports, including one commissioned by opposition group, North East Pylon Pressure (NEPP), also found that the underground option is more expensive. That study found that it could cost €300 million.
Mr Winfield told The Irish Times yesterday that Ireland would be going into “uncharted waters” if the lines were placed underground.
“Underground cables of this capacity and this length have never been used anywhere else in the world,” he said, adding that the technology was relatively new.
According to Mr Winfield, both options will affect the environment.
Laying underground cables would involve a level of disruption similar to building a motorway, although it would be short-lived. Along with this, excavations could hit archaeological sites.
Overhead lines would involve digging foundations every 300 to 350 metres of the route.
PB Power employed landscape architects, high-voltage transmission engineers and underground cable specialists to compile the report, which identified the most suitable routes.
Mr Winfield said the report made no recommendations and was simply there to put the facts before the relevant parties.
NEPP rejected PB Power’s findings yesterday and claimed that they were fundamentally flawed.
“The report grossly overestimates the cost of operating an underground system and goes in the face of international expert opinion that, while underground may be more costly to build, it is always cheaper to operate than overhead,” the group’s statement said.
Eirgrid will apply for planning permission later this year to An Bórd Pleanála under the critical infrastructure scheme.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
National grid operator Eirgrid plans to build a 70km high-voltage electricity connector through Meath, Cavan, Monaghan, Armagh and Tyrone over the next three years.
It will be part of the national grid, the core of the electricity distribution network. Local people want the State agency to run the power lines underground for environmental and health reasons.
Eirgrid released the findings of a report it and Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) commissioned from experts Parsons Brinckerhoff (PB Power) yesterday.
It shows that the underground option would cost €588 million, as against €81 million for overhead lines. Maintenance costs for underground cables would run to €73 million over their lifespan, €29 million more than it would cost for overhead lines.
Its author, Mark Winfield of PB Power, said yesterday that two other reports, including one commissioned by opposition group, North East Pylon Pressure (NEPP), also found that the underground option is more expensive. That study found that it could cost €300 million.
Mr Winfield told The Irish Times yesterday that Ireland would be going into “uncharted waters” if the lines were placed underground.
“Underground cables of this capacity and this length have never been used anywhere else in the world,” he said, adding that the technology was relatively new.
According to Mr Winfield, both options will affect the environment.
Laying underground cables would involve a level of disruption similar to building a motorway, although it would be short-lived. Along with this, excavations could hit archaeological sites.
Overhead lines would involve digging foundations every 300 to 350 metres of the route.
PB Power employed landscape architects, high-voltage transmission engineers and underground cable specialists to compile the report, which identified the most suitable routes.
Mr Winfield said the report made no recommendations and was simply there to put the facts before the relevant parties.
NEPP rejected PB Power’s findings yesterday and claimed that they were fundamentally flawed.
“The report grossly overestimates the cost of operating an underground system and goes in the face of international expert opinion that, while underground may be more costly to build, it is always cheaper to operate than overhead,” the group’s statement said.
Eirgrid will apply for planning permission later this year to An Bórd Pleanála under the critical infrastructure scheme.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
€400,000 deposit on land deal forfeited
THE HIGH Court has ordered the forfeiture of a €400,000 deposit paid over as part of a €4 million housing land purchase deal in Co Cavan.
Mr Justice Roderick Murphy yesterday ruled that Thomas Lynch, the seller of the lands, is entitled to forfeiture of the deposit and to resell the lands because of the failure of the proposed purchasers to expedite a planning application in accordance with the terms of the purchase contract.
The judge found that Desmond and Pauric Duffy had not complied with a strict term of the contract which they signed in April 2007 with Mr Lynch in relation to the sale of two lots of land at Lisnarsaran, Cootehill. The purchase price of €4 million was also to include a leasehold interest for part of a property formerly known as Cootehill Workhouse.
The sale was to be completed by October 31st, 2007, on condition that planning permission for houses on the land had issued. The contract provided the Duffys had to use “all reasonable endeavours” to secure planning permission by that date.
If planning permission had not issued by June 30th, 2007, the Duffys were liable to pay 5 per cent interest per annum on the balance (€3.6 million) of the purchase price up to October 31st, 2007. If there was no permission by then, the contract provided either party may thereafter terminate the contract and the Duffys could be refunded their deposit without deduction, interest, costs or compensation.
A valid planning application was lodged on October 24th – days before the deadline – and the Duffys’ lawyers wrote seeking the return of the deposit, saying it was not anticipated permission would be issued before October 31st.
The High Court was asked to decide whether the Duffys had breached the planning permission condition in the contract in relation to having used “all reasonable” endeavours to get permission as soon as possible.
It was also asked to determine whether Mr Lynch was entitled to rely on a condition in the contract that, if planning permission was not obtained, he could then resell the property and forfeit the €400,000 deposit.
In his judgment yesterday ruling in favour of Mr Lynch, Mr Justice Murphy said it was clear the Duffys were obliged to use all reasonable endeavours to ensure the planning was successful by the deadline set.
Mr Justice Murphy ruled the Duffys had not complied with their obligations under the contract.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Mr Justice Roderick Murphy yesterday ruled that Thomas Lynch, the seller of the lands, is entitled to forfeiture of the deposit and to resell the lands because of the failure of the proposed purchasers to expedite a planning application in accordance with the terms of the purchase contract.
The judge found that Desmond and Pauric Duffy had not complied with a strict term of the contract which they signed in April 2007 with Mr Lynch in relation to the sale of two lots of land at Lisnarsaran, Cootehill. The purchase price of €4 million was also to include a leasehold interest for part of a property formerly known as Cootehill Workhouse.
The sale was to be completed by October 31st, 2007, on condition that planning permission for houses on the land had issued. The contract provided the Duffys had to use “all reasonable endeavours” to secure planning permission by that date.
If planning permission had not issued by June 30th, 2007, the Duffys were liable to pay 5 per cent interest per annum on the balance (€3.6 million) of the purchase price up to October 31st, 2007. If there was no permission by then, the contract provided either party may thereafter terminate the contract and the Duffys could be refunded their deposit without deduction, interest, costs or compensation.
A valid planning application was lodged on October 24th – days before the deadline – and the Duffys’ lawyers wrote seeking the return of the deposit, saying it was not anticipated permission would be issued before October 31st.
The High Court was asked to decide whether the Duffys had breached the planning permission condition in the contract in relation to having used “all reasonable” endeavours to get permission as soon as possible.
It was also asked to determine whether Mr Lynch was entitled to rely on a condition in the contract that, if planning permission was not obtained, he could then resell the property and forfeit the €400,000 deposit.
In his judgment yesterday ruling in favour of Mr Lynch, Mr Justice Murphy said it was clear the Duffys were obliged to use all reasonable endeavours to ensure the planning was successful by the deadline set.
Mr Justice Murphy ruled the Duffys had not complied with their obligations under the contract.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Wednesday, 11 February 2009
Site worth two-thirds of the €17.2m-per-acre consortium paid for it, committee told
THE Dublin Docklands Development Authority (DDDA) and Anglo Irish Bank will meet next week to decide how much taxpayers will lose because of a €411 million speculative investment.
The DDDA owns a 26% stake in the former Irish Glass Bottle site in Poolbeg and is part of a consortium which still owes €293m to Anglo.
The authority’s chief executive Paul Maloney said the site is now worth less than two-thirds of the €17.2m-per-acre which the Becbay consortium paid for it.
And the Becbay consortium, which involves the DDDA, Quinlan Private and Bernard McNamara, is awaiting a revaluation before deciding what to do with the loan.
It has not revalued the site because it wants Anglo to pay for it. Mr Maloney said there is an outstanding sum but the fate of this rests on next week’s meetings.
Fine Gael’s Phil Hogan said given Mr Maloney’s revelations that Becbay did not pay interest on the loan in the second half of last year, Environment Minister John Gormley should investigate if the DDDA is still viable.
"With over eight months elapsing since the DDDA has been able to even pay interest on this loan, serious questions hang over its financial solvency," he said.
Mr Maloney made his comments at the Oireachtas committee on the Environment yesterday.
He denied Mr Hogan’s accusation that there had been a conflict of interest among the Anglo directors forced to resign before Christmas, who were involved in DDDA’s decision to buy the site.
Becbay took out the loan when Sean FitzPatrick was chairman of the DDDA’s finance committee and separately chair of Anglo.
And Lar Bradshaw was the chairman of the DDDA and non-executive director of Anglo.
The DDDA said both men had declared their interest and abstained from the meeting when the proposal to borrow the money from Anglo was made.
However, Mr Hogan read from the minutes of a subsequent meeting which showed Mr FitzPatrick and Mr Bradshaw were present when the decision was made to buy the site.
In another round of questioning Mr Maloney said he was glad the U2 tower did not go ahead before the economic downturn.
He said construction on tower blocks around Europe had been halted because of the credit crunch and he preferred to let the project wait until conditions were more favourable.
Mr Maloney said he still believed the tower would be built in the long term.
Irish Examiner
www.buckplanning.ie
The DDDA owns a 26% stake in the former Irish Glass Bottle site in Poolbeg and is part of a consortium which still owes €293m to Anglo.
The authority’s chief executive Paul Maloney said the site is now worth less than two-thirds of the €17.2m-per-acre which the Becbay consortium paid for it.
And the Becbay consortium, which involves the DDDA, Quinlan Private and Bernard McNamara, is awaiting a revaluation before deciding what to do with the loan.
It has not revalued the site because it wants Anglo to pay for it. Mr Maloney said there is an outstanding sum but the fate of this rests on next week’s meetings.
Fine Gael’s Phil Hogan said given Mr Maloney’s revelations that Becbay did not pay interest on the loan in the second half of last year, Environment Minister John Gormley should investigate if the DDDA is still viable.
"With over eight months elapsing since the DDDA has been able to even pay interest on this loan, serious questions hang over its financial solvency," he said.
Mr Maloney made his comments at the Oireachtas committee on the Environment yesterday.
He denied Mr Hogan’s accusation that there had been a conflict of interest among the Anglo directors forced to resign before Christmas, who were involved in DDDA’s decision to buy the site.
Becbay took out the loan when Sean FitzPatrick was chairman of the DDDA’s finance committee and separately chair of Anglo.
And Lar Bradshaw was the chairman of the DDDA and non-executive director of Anglo.
The DDDA said both men had declared their interest and abstained from the meeting when the proposal to borrow the money from Anglo was made.
However, Mr Hogan read from the minutes of a subsequent meeting which showed Mr FitzPatrick and Mr Bradshaw were present when the decision was made to buy the site.
In another round of questioning Mr Maloney said he was glad the U2 tower did not go ahead before the economic downturn.
He said construction on tower blocks around Europe had been halted because of the credit crunch and he preferred to let the project wait until conditions were more favourable.
Mr Maloney said he still believed the tower would be built in the long term.
Irish Examiner
www.buckplanning.ie
'People power victory' as incinerator turned down
A CHAMPION racehorse trainer has expressed his delight after plans for a major incinerator in the heart of the equine industry were rejected yesterday.
Ted Walsh, who trained English Grand National winner Papillon, said the "Thoroughbred County" of Kildare didn't want a "bad neighbour" on its doorstep.
Mr Walsh was preparing to travel to Dundalk for horse trials when he heard the news that An Bord Pleanala had refused the application by US company, Energy Answers International (EAI), to build the €250m facility off the N7 at Rathcoole, Co Dublin, on three grounds.
The board found the incinerator would pose an "unacceptable risk of pollution" in its refusal. It said a separate incinerator was already approved for south Dublin at Poolbeg.
It also stated that the project would create "significant traffic" including a "large percentage of heavy commercial vehicles" in the area.
Objections
Almost 300 objections to the project had been lodged with An Bord Pleanala, including a number of high-profile submissions from the Kildare equine industry.
The Irish Thoroughbred Breeders Association, Naas Race Course, Kildare Equestrian Centre and Ted Walsh opposed the development.
"There are a lot of very learned people in An Bord Pleanala and they heard everybody's objections," Mr Walsh told the Irish Independent yesterday.
"They weighed it up and saw that the minuses far outnumbered the pluses.
"I'm sure everybody, like myself, who is a resident or within walking distance of the incinerator is very happy."
Rathcoole Against Incinerator Dioxins (RAID), which mounted a high-profile campaign against the waste facility, said the "common people" were "exhilarated" by the decision.
However, spokesman for the group, Liam McDermott, said they were also "very angry that an American company could cost ordinary people €85,000".
An Bord Pleanala has directed EAI to pay a portion of RAID's costs.
However, the shortfall is being made up locally through fundraising.
"You have to have the experts behind you if you go into any oral hearing. That's what we did," said Mr McDermott.
The Kill Group Stables in Co Kildare said they were "over the moon" at the decision.
Kildare North TD Emmet Stagg said it was a "victory for people power". Dublin Mid-West Senator Frances Fitzgerald added that the planned incinerator was "excessive".
The National Roads Authority (NRA) had objected to the application because of the potential effects on traffic congestion on the N7. "It's imperative you don't diminish the value of the infrastructure when we are spending billions of euro around the country," said the NRA's Sean O'Neill.
Meanwhile, EAI said it was "disappointed" at the decision of the planning appeals body as it had put forward a "strong case". "The total investment by Energy Answers International in this project would have amounted to approximately €250m," a statement from the company said. It added that the project would have created up to 300 jobs during the construction period and almost 80 long-term jobs.
"Additionally, the project would have generated annual wages and benefits in the region of €7.1m and the projected amount of goods and services sourced locally would have been approximately €23.2m per year," the company said.
EAI now faces a bill of €142,380 towards costs incurred by objectors, including planning authorities and RAID.
Eimear Ni Bhraonain and Louise Hogan
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Ted Walsh, who trained English Grand National winner Papillon, said the "Thoroughbred County" of Kildare didn't want a "bad neighbour" on its doorstep.
Mr Walsh was preparing to travel to Dundalk for horse trials when he heard the news that An Bord Pleanala had refused the application by US company, Energy Answers International (EAI), to build the €250m facility off the N7 at Rathcoole, Co Dublin, on three grounds.
The board found the incinerator would pose an "unacceptable risk of pollution" in its refusal. It said a separate incinerator was already approved for south Dublin at Poolbeg.
It also stated that the project would create "significant traffic" including a "large percentage of heavy commercial vehicles" in the area.
Objections
Almost 300 objections to the project had been lodged with An Bord Pleanala, including a number of high-profile submissions from the Kildare equine industry.
The Irish Thoroughbred Breeders Association, Naas Race Course, Kildare Equestrian Centre and Ted Walsh opposed the development.
"There are a lot of very learned people in An Bord Pleanala and they heard everybody's objections," Mr Walsh told the Irish Independent yesterday.
"They weighed it up and saw that the minuses far outnumbered the pluses.
"I'm sure everybody, like myself, who is a resident or within walking distance of the incinerator is very happy."
Rathcoole Against Incinerator Dioxins (RAID), which mounted a high-profile campaign against the waste facility, said the "common people" were "exhilarated" by the decision.
However, spokesman for the group, Liam McDermott, said they were also "very angry that an American company could cost ordinary people €85,000".
An Bord Pleanala has directed EAI to pay a portion of RAID's costs.
However, the shortfall is being made up locally through fundraising.
"You have to have the experts behind you if you go into any oral hearing. That's what we did," said Mr McDermott.
The Kill Group Stables in Co Kildare said they were "over the moon" at the decision.
Kildare North TD Emmet Stagg said it was a "victory for people power". Dublin Mid-West Senator Frances Fitzgerald added that the planned incinerator was "excessive".
The National Roads Authority (NRA) had objected to the application because of the potential effects on traffic congestion on the N7. "It's imperative you don't diminish the value of the infrastructure when we are spending billions of euro around the country," said the NRA's Sean O'Neill.
Meanwhile, EAI said it was "disappointed" at the decision of the planning appeals body as it had put forward a "strong case". "The total investment by Energy Answers International in this project would have amounted to approximately €250m," a statement from the company said. It added that the project would have created up to 300 jobs during the construction period and almost 80 long-term jobs.
"Additionally, the project would have generated annual wages and benefits in the region of €7.1m and the projected amount of goods and services sourced locally would have been approximately €23.2m per year," the company said.
EAI now faces a bill of €142,380 towards costs incurred by objectors, including planning authorities and RAID.
Eimear Ni Bhraonain and Louise Hogan
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
'Frustration' over pilot energy project
MORE THAN a year after a renewable energy pilot project was announced, just 1 per cent of the homes involved have been supplied with the promised “net meters” to sell electricity to the national grid.
Fine Gael energy spokesman Simon Coveney told the Dáil that people were “utterly frustrated by how long each stage is taking before smart meters will be commercial”, which would be 2012 or 2013 at the earliest.
He claimed that only 250 homes had been supplied with the meters, even though Minister for Energy Eamon Ryan announced in November 2007 that 25,000 would be provided, reducing this to 21,000 in September 2008.
The meters allowed for “micro-scale renewable energy projects in domestic settings to export electricity to the grid”.
Mr Ryan said that, despite Opposition criticism, “we are ahead of most other jurisdictions”.
Other countries “have installed smart meters but the meters were not necessarily as smart as they would have liked”. It was appropriate to get it right and “that is what we are doing”.
He said he would “refer back to the deputy on the exact number” of meters delivered to date, but he insisted that “we are on target for installing the 21,000 meters”.
People “can criticise and say we should have installed 500,000 by now but my experience with a range of different projects in which we have engaged is that one first tests the item in the real world”.
The Minister said 21,000 was not a small test but a “significant sample of the population”.
He added that he was “examining alternative ways of integrating microscale renewable energy systems into the electricity grid”.
One approach was to “provide a guaranteed price for electricity exported to the grid from microscale projects”. But electricity suppliers only wanted to buy from producers with commercial quantities.
Microscale projects required a different solution.
Mr Coveney said the ESB proposal to pay nine cent per kilowatt was low compared to other countries.
The Minister agreed, but said the nine cent was there “to break the logjam that has existed for years”, where nobody would or could buy that electricity.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Fine Gael energy spokesman Simon Coveney told the Dáil that people were “utterly frustrated by how long each stage is taking before smart meters will be commercial”, which would be 2012 or 2013 at the earliest.
He claimed that only 250 homes had been supplied with the meters, even though Minister for Energy Eamon Ryan announced in November 2007 that 25,000 would be provided, reducing this to 21,000 in September 2008.
The meters allowed for “micro-scale renewable energy projects in domestic settings to export electricity to the grid”.
Mr Ryan said that, despite Opposition criticism, “we are ahead of most other jurisdictions”.
Other countries “have installed smart meters but the meters were not necessarily as smart as they would have liked”. It was appropriate to get it right and “that is what we are doing”.
He said he would “refer back to the deputy on the exact number” of meters delivered to date, but he insisted that “we are on target for installing the 21,000 meters”.
People “can criticise and say we should have installed 500,000 by now but my experience with a range of different projects in which we have engaged is that one first tests the item in the real world”.
The Minister said 21,000 was not a small test but a “significant sample of the population”.
He added that he was “examining alternative ways of integrating microscale renewable energy systems into the electricity grid”.
One approach was to “provide a guaranteed price for electricity exported to the grid from microscale projects”. But electricity suppliers only wanted to buy from producers with commercial quantities.
Microscale projects required a different solution.
Mr Coveney said the ESB proposal to pay nine cent per kilowatt was low compared to other countries.
The Minister agreed, but said the nine cent was there “to break the logjam that has existed for years”, where nobody would or could buy that electricity.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Intimidation over rezoning claimed
A CLARE county councillor has said he will “name names” after claiming that he and other colleagues were intimidated by representatives of a company that had applied to the local authority to have an area of land in east Clare rezoned.
Meelick-based teacher and council member Cathal Crowe (FF) said he was warned that his “election campaign would be dismantled” if he did not support the company’s application to have land rezoned. Two other councillors also raised concerns about the excessive pressure they claim was brought to bear on them ahead of this month’s meeting of the local authority.
Mr Crowe made the claims during a debate to decide whether the South East Clare Local Area Plan (2009-2015) should be amended to include an application by Zinc Properties to rezone an area of land at the former Burlington plant at Gillogue near Clonlara in east Clare.
Zinc Properties, which owns and operates a “business park” at the site, had submitted an amendment to have a portion of a 28-acre site rezoned for heavy industrial use and 24-hour access. The property houses 12 small businesses, many of which are the subject of council enforcement orders.
At this month’s meeting of the county council, however, the local authority’s legal officer John Shaw said the amendment could not be considered part of the plan as it had not gone out for public consultation and so it was refused.
Mr Crowe claimed: “I was intimidated and got phone calls at all hours threatening to dismantle my election campaign. I got one call late at night warning me that they would tear me to shreds. This is nothing short of bullying and coercion and it is disgraceful.
“There has also been a clear breach of ethics here. We had a meeting in camera some weeks ago where we discussed this matter, but within hours of that meeting taking place people knew who voted and how they voted, and that is a breach of a clear code of conduct. Somebody in our midst is quick to run with stories from meetings. I am taking this matter very seriously and I am considering whether I will make a formal complaint to gardaí.
“I challenge everyone who was at that meeting to name who it was that put the voting record in the public domain. I will name names,” Mr Crowe said.
Brian Whelan, a spokesman for owners Zinc Properties, said: “Nobody associated with this company intimidated or threatened any councillor and no calls were made to anyone at inappropriate times. This is not the decision we wanted, but there is planning on site since 1974 and some land is zoned for light industrial and we will utilise that and consider our position in relation to the refusal to allow our amendment at a later date.”
Meanwhile, residents living close to the plant at Gillogue have welcomed news that the council rejected the amendment.
A spokesperson for the Gillogue Residents’ Association said: “As residents, we all fully support development within our community. Our only condition has been that this should be done ethically, democratically and within the formal planning process.”
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Meelick-based teacher and council member Cathal Crowe (FF) said he was warned that his “election campaign would be dismantled” if he did not support the company’s application to have land rezoned. Two other councillors also raised concerns about the excessive pressure they claim was brought to bear on them ahead of this month’s meeting of the local authority.
Mr Crowe made the claims during a debate to decide whether the South East Clare Local Area Plan (2009-2015) should be amended to include an application by Zinc Properties to rezone an area of land at the former Burlington plant at Gillogue near Clonlara in east Clare.
Zinc Properties, which owns and operates a “business park” at the site, had submitted an amendment to have a portion of a 28-acre site rezoned for heavy industrial use and 24-hour access. The property houses 12 small businesses, many of which are the subject of council enforcement orders.
At this month’s meeting of the county council, however, the local authority’s legal officer John Shaw said the amendment could not be considered part of the plan as it had not gone out for public consultation and so it was refused.
Mr Crowe claimed: “I was intimidated and got phone calls at all hours threatening to dismantle my election campaign. I got one call late at night warning me that they would tear me to shreds. This is nothing short of bullying and coercion and it is disgraceful.
“There has also been a clear breach of ethics here. We had a meeting in camera some weeks ago where we discussed this matter, but within hours of that meeting taking place people knew who voted and how they voted, and that is a breach of a clear code of conduct. Somebody in our midst is quick to run with stories from meetings. I am taking this matter very seriously and I am considering whether I will make a formal complaint to gardaí.
“I challenge everyone who was at that meeting to name who it was that put the voting record in the public domain. I will name names,” Mr Crowe said.
Brian Whelan, a spokesman for owners Zinc Properties, said: “Nobody associated with this company intimidated or threatened any councillor and no calls were made to anyone at inappropriate times. This is not the decision we wanted, but there is planning on site since 1974 and some land is zoned for light industrial and we will utilise that and consider our position in relation to the refusal to allow our amendment at a later date.”
Meanwhile, residents living close to the plant at Gillogue have welcomed news that the council rejected the amendment.
A spokesperson for the Gillogue Residents’ Association said: “As residents, we all fully support development within our community. Our only condition has been that this should be done ethically, democratically and within the formal planning process.”
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Plan to ban cars from Dublin's College Green area by autumn
CARS ARE to be banned from the College Green area of Dublin city by next autumn as a first step towards making the city centre a public transport-only area.
Dublin City Council is to release its plans to ban general traffic from travelling to and from Dame Street through College Green for three weeks of public consultation next month. The plan, which will cost €800,000 to introduce, will be shown to councillors tomorrow.
It involves introducing a public transport-only “gate” at the junction of College Green and Grafton Street in front of Trinity College. This would prevent cars from entering Dame Street or Nassau Street from the north or east of the city and would stop cars from Dame Street driving into Westmoreland Street.
The plan, which the council is calling the College Green Bus Gate Scheme, must be in place before the third-quarter of this year to allow preliminary work on the Metro North rail line to Dublin airport and Swords to begin.
The Railway Procurement Agency has yet to advise the council of its traffic management plans to enable work on the metro to begin. However, the council said all lanes on Westmoreland Street between Fleet Street and O’Connell Street will be closed to traffic during the main construction works.
The council plans to put a bus lane on one of the two lanes of College Green heading towards Nassau Street and Dame Street. In the report to councillors, it notes that while the detailed design for the Luas BX line, which will connect the Luas Green line at St Stephen’s Green to the Red line in the north of the city, is not yet available, the preferred alignment runs along College Green.
Allocating both College Green lanes to bus and rail would mean that it would be impossible for cars to travel along this route.
The public transport-only gate, combined with the Luas and metro-enabling works, and earlier measures to restrict cars – including a ban on right turns from Georges Street to Dame Street, a ban on left turns from Dawson Street to Nassau Street and forcing traffic to turn right from Pearse Street in to Tara Street – will mean an effective car ban from the principal shopping area of the city.
The council describes this scheme, which will also involve the upgrade of existing pedestrian crossings and the installation of a new pedestrian crossing on College Green at Church Lane, as phase one of a strategy to promote increased bus cycling and walking modes in the city centre.
Plans to eliminate so called “rat runs” from Usher Street and St Augustine Street and quality bus corridor upgrades for James’s Street and Clanbrassil Street are also being released for public consultation next month.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Dublin City Council is to release its plans to ban general traffic from travelling to and from Dame Street through College Green for three weeks of public consultation next month. The plan, which will cost €800,000 to introduce, will be shown to councillors tomorrow.
It involves introducing a public transport-only “gate” at the junction of College Green and Grafton Street in front of Trinity College. This would prevent cars from entering Dame Street or Nassau Street from the north or east of the city and would stop cars from Dame Street driving into Westmoreland Street.
The plan, which the council is calling the College Green Bus Gate Scheme, must be in place before the third-quarter of this year to allow preliminary work on the Metro North rail line to Dublin airport and Swords to begin.
The Railway Procurement Agency has yet to advise the council of its traffic management plans to enable work on the metro to begin. However, the council said all lanes on Westmoreland Street between Fleet Street and O’Connell Street will be closed to traffic during the main construction works.
The council plans to put a bus lane on one of the two lanes of College Green heading towards Nassau Street and Dame Street. In the report to councillors, it notes that while the detailed design for the Luas BX line, which will connect the Luas Green line at St Stephen’s Green to the Red line in the north of the city, is not yet available, the preferred alignment runs along College Green.
Allocating both College Green lanes to bus and rail would mean that it would be impossible for cars to travel along this route.
The public transport-only gate, combined with the Luas and metro-enabling works, and earlier measures to restrict cars – including a ban on right turns from Georges Street to Dame Street, a ban on left turns from Dawson Street to Nassau Street and forcing traffic to turn right from Pearse Street in to Tara Street – will mean an effective car ban from the principal shopping area of the city.
The council describes this scheme, which will also involve the upgrade of existing pedestrian crossings and the installation of a new pedestrian crossing on College Green at Church Lane, as phase one of a strategy to promote increased bus cycling and walking modes in the city centre.
Plans to eliminate so called “rat runs” from Usher Street and St Augustine Street and quality bus corridor upgrades for James’s Street and Clanbrassil Street are also being released for public consultation next month.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Rathcoole incinerator proposal rejected
THE COMPANY behind a €250 million waste-to-energy plant proposed for Rathcoole in west Dublin is to meet its advisers this morning to see if there is any future for the plan, following announcement of its rejection yesterday by An Bord Pleanála.
The board’s strategic infrastructure division cited three reasons for refusing the project: the fact that the plant would be “in conflict” with the Dublin waste management plan which relies on the already-approved Poolbeg incinerator; traffic volumes and access to the N7; and the facility’s stack height which would constitute “an unacceptable risk of pollution of the environment”.
An Bord Pleanála also ordered that Energy Answers International Ltd, a subsidiary of the US waste-to-energy company Energy Answers International Inc, pay almost €150,000 towards costs incurred by the objectors along with its own.
In a statement after the decision was announced yesterday, Energy Answers International expressed its “disappointment”.
The company said it believed it had put forward a strong case for the project and it would have created up to 300 jobs during the 2½-year construction period, with annual wages in the region of €7.1 million.
Energy Answers International claimed the projected amount of goods and services sourced locally would have been approximately €23.2 million per year.
The company said it would study the refusal before making a decision on the future of the project.
Sources added that the company would be meeting its planning advisers this morning to see if the proposal had any future.
While it is understood the developer believes the issues of traffic access and stack height could be overcome, sources said it was difficult to see how the issue of conflict with the Dublin waste management plan could be set aside.
Rathcoole Against Incineration Dioxins (Raid) spokesman Liam McDermott said the refusal of the planning application should pressurise the Government into creating “other ways of dealing with our waste – that is, recycling, composting and biodegradable methods.
“Not alone are those methods more environmentally friendly but they will create thousands of much-needed jobs throughout the country.”
A clearly delighted Mr McDermott said locals were “excited, exuberant, exhilarated and enthralled with indescribable emotion at the news that An Bord Pleanála has refused planning permission to Energy Answers to build a waste incinerator at Behan’s Quarry in Rathcoole”.
Mr McDermott said the group had been “always confident” of the outcome: “Champagne corks will be popping in Rathcoole, Saggart and Newcastle and the Raid committee hope that their huge campaign will offer great hope and encouragement to other committees throughout the country who are opposing similar planning applications.”
The decision was also welcomed by a number of local politicians, among them the Fine Gael leader in the Seanad, Frances Fitzgerald, who gave evidence at the oral hearing. She said Fine Gael had “always maintained that Dublin didn’t need another incinerator, particularly now when a review of waste management strategy is under way”.
Ms Fitzgerald described the decision as “a complete victory for the communities of Rathcoole, Saggart, Clondalkin, Newcastle and Brittas . . . This is proof that if people unite and work solidly together, change for the better is possible.
“Today is a victory for people power in the planning process,” Ms Fitzgerald concluded.
The decision was also welcomed by Labour TDs Joanna Tuffy of Dublin Mid West and Emmet Stagg of Kildare North.
“Having made a submission to An Bord Pleanála and attended oral hearing where I spoke out against the proposals, I am delighted with today’s decision to refuse permission to the proposed incinerator at Rathcoole,” said Ms Tuffy.
Mr Stagg said the decision represented “a victory for people power. I would like to congratulate the various groups and people in Kill who mounted a strong campaign against this proposed incinerator, and would like to praise in particular the campaign organised by Carole Collins from The Stables in Kill.
“The proposal is now dead in the water and the residents of Kill, Johnstown, Eadestown, Rathmore and Kilteel should celebrate their victory,” he added.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
The board’s strategic infrastructure division cited three reasons for refusing the project: the fact that the plant would be “in conflict” with the Dublin waste management plan which relies on the already-approved Poolbeg incinerator; traffic volumes and access to the N7; and the facility’s stack height which would constitute “an unacceptable risk of pollution of the environment”.
An Bord Pleanála also ordered that Energy Answers International Ltd, a subsidiary of the US waste-to-energy company Energy Answers International Inc, pay almost €150,000 towards costs incurred by the objectors along with its own.
In a statement after the decision was announced yesterday, Energy Answers International expressed its “disappointment”.
The company said it believed it had put forward a strong case for the project and it would have created up to 300 jobs during the 2½-year construction period, with annual wages in the region of €7.1 million.
Energy Answers International claimed the projected amount of goods and services sourced locally would have been approximately €23.2 million per year.
The company said it would study the refusal before making a decision on the future of the project.
Sources added that the company would be meeting its planning advisers this morning to see if the proposal had any future.
While it is understood the developer believes the issues of traffic access and stack height could be overcome, sources said it was difficult to see how the issue of conflict with the Dublin waste management plan could be set aside.
Rathcoole Against Incineration Dioxins (Raid) spokesman Liam McDermott said the refusal of the planning application should pressurise the Government into creating “other ways of dealing with our waste – that is, recycling, composting and biodegradable methods.
“Not alone are those methods more environmentally friendly but they will create thousands of much-needed jobs throughout the country.”
A clearly delighted Mr McDermott said locals were “excited, exuberant, exhilarated and enthralled with indescribable emotion at the news that An Bord Pleanála has refused planning permission to Energy Answers to build a waste incinerator at Behan’s Quarry in Rathcoole”.
Mr McDermott said the group had been “always confident” of the outcome: “Champagne corks will be popping in Rathcoole, Saggart and Newcastle and the Raid committee hope that their huge campaign will offer great hope and encouragement to other committees throughout the country who are opposing similar planning applications.”
The decision was also welcomed by a number of local politicians, among them the Fine Gael leader in the Seanad, Frances Fitzgerald, who gave evidence at the oral hearing. She said Fine Gael had “always maintained that Dublin didn’t need another incinerator, particularly now when a review of waste management strategy is under way”.
Ms Fitzgerald described the decision as “a complete victory for the communities of Rathcoole, Saggart, Clondalkin, Newcastle and Brittas . . . This is proof that if people unite and work solidly together, change for the better is possible.
“Today is a victory for people power in the planning process,” Ms Fitzgerald concluded.
The decision was also welcomed by Labour TDs Joanna Tuffy of Dublin Mid West and Emmet Stagg of Kildare North.
“Having made a submission to An Bord Pleanála and attended oral hearing where I spoke out against the proposals, I am delighted with today’s decision to refuse permission to the proposed incinerator at Rathcoole,” said Ms Tuffy.
Mr Stagg said the decision represented “a victory for people power. I would like to congratulate the various groups and people in Kill who mounted a strong campaign against this proposed incinerator, and would like to praise in particular the campaign organised by Carole Collins from The Stables in Kill.
“The proposal is now dead in the water and the residents of Kill, Johnstown, Eadestown, Rathmore and Kilteel should celebrate their victory,” he added.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Tuesday, 10 February 2009
Red line investment 'a winner'
TAOISEACH Brian Cowen has described the decision of developers to pay more than half the cost of a new Luas line as a "win-win" situation.
The 4.6km line will extend the current Red line service by a further five stops to areas including Saggart, Cheeverstown and the Citywest business campus in Dublin.
Yesterday, Mr Cowen said it was very significant that three developers had agreed to pay 55pc of the €150m cost.
"It really is an example of how you get a win-win situation in terms of development and also people getting a better quality of life due to the availability of public transport," Mr Cowen said.
The three developers include Citywest Hotel owner Jim Mansfield and Harcourt Developments, which count former RTE presenter Mike Murphy among its directors.
They have agreed to provide the land, a 300-space park and ride facility, and a cash donation of around €45m.
The Railway Procurement Agency (RPA) is providing the Luas trams, the track lines and the funding to run the service.
Mr Cowen said he believed the line extension would bring economic benefits to the west Tallaght community, which has suffered from social deprivation, vandalism and dereliction.
"I believe that this new line will act as a catalyst for further developments in the years ahead," he said.
The Luas Red line already runs from Tallaght to Connolly Station. The construction of the line extension, which links in at the Belgard stop, will begin this year and is due to be completed by the end of next year.
The Railway Procurement Agency has said that the project has been subject to a full cost benefit analysis and that the future revenue from passengers will be greater than the operating costs of the line.
Property developer Brendan Hickey, whose company is helping to fund the line extension, said the plan had taken eight years to come to fruition.
"There seems to be so much despair and despondency around that I think it's important that we send a message to the markets that we have great confidence in the future," he said.
Michael Brennan Political Correspondent
Irish Independent
www.buckplanning.ie
The 4.6km line will extend the current Red line service by a further five stops to areas including Saggart, Cheeverstown and the Citywest business campus in Dublin.
Yesterday, Mr Cowen said it was very significant that three developers had agreed to pay 55pc of the €150m cost.
"It really is an example of how you get a win-win situation in terms of development and also people getting a better quality of life due to the availability of public transport," Mr Cowen said.
The three developers include Citywest Hotel owner Jim Mansfield and Harcourt Developments, which count former RTE presenter Mike Murphy among its directors.
They have agreed to provide the land, a 300-space park and ride facility, and a cash donation of around €45m.
The Railway Procurement Agency (RPA) is providing the Luas trams, the track lines and the funding to run the service.
Mr Cowen said he believed the line extension would bring economic benefits to the west Tallaght community, which has suffered from social deprivation, vandalism and dereliction.
"I believe that this new line will act as a catalyst for further developments in the years ahead," he said.
The Luas Red line already runs from Tallaght to Connolly Station. The construction of the line extension, which links in at the Belgard stop, will begin this year and is due to be completed by the end of next year.
The Railway Procurement Agency has said that the project has been subject to a full cost benefit analysis and that the future revenue from passengers will be greater than the operating costs of the line.
Property developer Brendan Hickey, whose company is helping to fund the line extension, said the plan had taken eight years to come to fruition.
"There seems to be so much despair and despondency around that I think it's important that we send a message to the markets that we have great confidence in the future," he said.
Michael Brennan Political Correspondent
Irish Independent
www.buckplanning.ie
Council will urge board to block incinerator
CORK County Council is to urge An Bord Pleanála to reject Indaver’s plans to build incinerators in Ringaskiddy capable of burning 300,000 tonnes per annum of municipal and hazardous waste.
Council officials have drafted a negative report on Indaver’s proposals, which will be given to the board on February 16.
County manager Martin Riordan said there were three main reasons why his officials thought the proposals inappropriate.
Mr Riordan said the location did not fit in with the County Development Plan. He also said incineration was not compatible with the council’s waste management strategy and the 300ft high chimney stacks would have a detrimental visual impact on the lower harbour.
As Cork Harbour For A Safe Environment (CHASE) campaigners sat quietly in the council chamber yesterday, they must have been pleased with the overwhelming support they got from the 40-plus councillors present. Only one, Cllr Kevin O’Keeffe (FF), openly supported incineration.
"The waste management strategy in this county is based on reduce, reuse and recycle principles. The 300ft high stack will spoil the view and we should reject it," Cllr John A Collins (FG) said.
Cllr John Mulvihill (Lab) said the overwhelming majority of people living in the lower harbour area were totally opposed the project. "I’d appeal to Minister John Gormley to stop this ridiculous carry-on. If it goes ahead we’ll be bringing in waste from all over the world."
Cllr Seamus McGrath (FF) also felt that if Indaver got permission the company would import waste from outside the country. "It would be catastrophic if it went ahead," he said.
Councillors decided that the minutes of the meeting would also be sent to An Bord Pleanála to show how strongly they were opposed to the project.
Irish Examiner
www.buckplanning.ie
Council officials have drafted a negative report on Indaver’s proposals, which will be given to the board on February 16.
County manager Martin Riordan said there were three main reasons why his officials thought the proposals inappropriate.
Mr Riordan said the location did not fit in with the County Development Plan. He also said incineration was not compatible with the council’s waste management strategy and the 300ft high chimney stacks would have a detrimental visual impact on the lower harbour.
As Cork Harbour For A Safe Environment (CHASE) campaigners sat quietly in the council chamber yesterday, they must have been pleased with the overwhelming support they got from the 40-plus councillors present. Only one, Cllr Kevin O’Keeffe (FF), openly supported incineration.
"The waste management strategy in this county is based on reduce, reuse and recycle principles. The 300ft high stack will spoil the view and we should reject it," Cllr John A Collins (FG) said.
Cllr John Mulvihill (Lab) said the overwhelming majority of people living in the lower harbour area were totally opposed the project. "I’d appeal to Minister John Gormley to stop this ridiculous carry-on. If it goes ahead we’ll be bringing in waste from all over the world."
Cllr Seamus McGrath (FF) also felt that if Indaver got permission the company would import waste from outside the country. "It would be catastrophic if it went ahead," he said.
Councillors decided that the minutes of the meeting would also be sent to An Bord Pleanála to show how strongly they were opposed to the project.
Irish Examiner
www.buckplanning.ie
Donegal council to trial water-powered street lights
DONEGAL COUNTY Council is set to become what is believed to be the first local authority in Ireland to use water powered street lights.
The council’s energy development officer Toni Needham said a private company had been contracted to install a “hydro light” on a footbridge over the River Finn in Ballybofey.
She said that once water levels drop a micro hydro-turbine will be installed under the bridge which links Jackson’s Hotel and the scenic Drumboe Woods.
Water flowing downstream will pass through the 110 watt turbine and generate enough power to charge batteries which will run the 30 watt LED light on the bridge above.
The council is currently piloting a number of technologies as part of their programme for renewable and low energy lighting.
“I think this will be the first in Ireland and it will be interesting to see how it works.
“It can produce enough energy to power up to three lights. However, we will just use one light at first,” Ms Needham said.
The hydro unit cost €3,000. The council provided €50,000 in 2008 to pilot alternative energy lighting.
LH Ecotech Ltd in Co Laois has been contracted by the council to supply and install hydro and solar power lights on the Ballybofey bridge.
Ecotech joint-owner Jaune Henby said it had already installed two solar powered lights on the bridge and they are both working very well.
However, the hydro light in Ballybofey will be a first for the developing company.
“We only have done tests on the hydro lights and have never installed one for a customer before. However, we do know that they work,” he said.
He explained that the turbine unit would generate enough power to run three lights on the bridge.
A small solar panel will also be fitted to the light as a back-up for the summer months and for when the water level of the river is too low.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
The council’s energy development officer Toni Needham said a private company had been contracted to install a “hydro light” on a footbridge over the River Finn in Ballybofey.
She said that once water levels drop a micro hydro-turbine will be installed under the bridge which links Jackson’s Hotel and the scenic Drumboe Woods.
Water flowing downstream will pass through the 110 watt turbine and generate enough power to charge batteries which will run the 30 watt LED light on the bridge above.
The council is currently piloting a number of technologies as part of their programme for renewable and low energy lighting.
“I think this will be the first in Ireland and it will be interesting to see how it works.
“It can produce enough energy to power up to three lights. However, we will just use one light at first,” Ms Needham said.
The hydro unit cost €3,000. The council provided €50,000 in 2008 to pilot alternative energy lighting.
LH Ecotech Ltd in Co Laois has been contracted by the council to supply and install hydro and solar power lights on the Ballybofey bridge.
Ecotech joint-owner Jaune Henby said it had already installed two solar powered lights on the bridge and they are both working very well.
However, the hydro light in Ballybofey will be a first for the developing company.
“We only have done tests on the hydro lights and have never installed one for a customer before. However, we do know that they work,” he said.
He explained that the turbine unit would generate enough power to run three lights on the bridge.
A small solar panel will also be fitted to the light as a back-up for the summer months and for when the water level of the river is too low.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
McNamara seeks payment of €1.02m
A COMPANY owned by builder Michael McNamara has brought court proceedings against a developer seeking €1.02 million fees allegedly outstanding under a 2006 contract for a €101 million shopping centre and mixed use development in Kilkenny.
The McNamara company claims it is now experiencing cash flow problems as a direct consequence of the defendant’s failure to pay.
The action by Michael McNamara and Company, Upper Ormond Quay, Dublin, is brought against Cedartree Construction Ltd, Merrion Road, Ballsbridge, and was admitted to the Commercial Court yesterday by Mr Justice Peter Kelly.
The proceedings relate to a contract of April 2006 under which the McNamara company agreed to design and build a shopping centre and extensive mixed use development, known as McDonagh Junction, at Dublin Road and Hebron Road in Kilkenny.
It is claimed work on the development is substantially complete. It is claimed the defendant’s quantity surveyor had earlier certified payments of €101,397,395 to the McNamara company and these had been paid.
It is claimed some €1.024 million in additional certified fees remains outstanding and the failure to pay this amount has caused several financial loss and damage to the plaintiff company. A letter of November 16th last requesting payment and indicating an intention to take legal proceedings if payment was not forthcoming was not responded to, the court heard.
It is also claimed the McNamara company’s profit margin on the entire construction project has been undermined by the non-payment of the sum in question.
The company was now experiencing cash flow problems as a direct consequence, the court was told.
McNamara was under particular pressure to pay suppliers and subcontractors for goods and services provided in connection with the project, it said.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
The McNamara company claims it is now experiencing cash flow problems as a direct consequence of the defendant’s failure to pay.
The action by Michael McNamara and Company, Upper Ormond Quay, Dublin, is brought against Cedartree Construction Ltd, Merrion Road, Ballsbridge, and was admitted to the Commercial Court yesterday by Mr Justice Peter Kelly.
The proceedings relate to a contract of April 2006 under which the McNamara company agreed to design and build a shopping centre and extensive mixed use development, known as McDonagh Junction, at Dublin Road and Hebron Road in Kilkenny.
It is claimed work on the development is substantially complete. It is claimed the defendant’s quantity surveyor had earlier certified payments of €101,397,395 to the McNamara company and these had been paid.
It is claimed some €1.024 million in additional certified fees remains outstanding and the failure to pay this amount has caused several financial loss and damage to the plaintiff company. A letter of November 16th last requesting payment and indicating an intention to take legal proceedings if payment was not forthcoming was not responded to, the court heard.
It is also claimed the McNamara company’s profit margin on the entire construction project has been undermined by the non-payment of the sum in question.
The company was now experiencing cash flow problems as a direct consequence, the court was told.
McNamara was under particular pressure to pay suppliers and subcontractors for goods and services provided in connection with the project, it said.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Council approves €10m signs
COUNCILLORS IN Dún Laoghaire, Dublin, voted to accept a plan to erect 60 on-street advertising signs worth €10 million at a meeting last night.
The council agreed not to carry the signs, to be erected by Clear Channel Ireland, in 10 architecturally sensitive areas, including Dalkey.
Alternative sites would have to be found for the two square metre signs, the meeting was told.
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown county councillors gave a broad welcome to the plan and the €10 million it would raise over 10 years for the council, which is to be earmarked for amenity.
Green Party councillor Tom Kivlehan asked that signs close to schools should not carry adverts for alcohol.
His party colleague, Cllr Gene Feighery, said the council should have put the matter out to public consultation.
“I don’t think they improve the built environment,” she said.
Councillors also raised concerns about whether the signs would obstruct people with wheelchairs or the visually impaired.
Richard Shakespeare, director of recreation and amenity at the council, said the disability officer would examine the signs and their positioning before they are put up.
There was an “appropriateness clause” in the contract between the council and Clear Channel to ensure only suitable advertising was carried on the signs.
“Politicians ads will of course be welcomed, provided you pay the rate,” he said.
Councillors also gave the go-ahead to retain a controversial car park on what was a circus field at Booterstown.
The development had angered local residents who claimed water birds at nearby Williamstown Creek could be threatened by the work.
The creek was designated a special protected area under the EU law Natura 2000.
Councillors voted 14 in favour and 13 against the development, which had already been built by the council.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
The council agreed not to carry the signs, to be erected by Clear Channel Ireland, in 10 architecturally sensitive areas, including Dalkey.
Alternative sites would have to be found for the two square metre signs, the meeting was told.
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown county councillors gave a broad welcome to the plan and the €10 million it would raise over 10 years for the council, which is to be earmarked for amenity.
Green Party councillor Tom Kivlehan asked that signs close to schools should not carry adverts for alcohol.
His party colleague, Cllr Gene Feighery, said the council should have put the matter out to public consultation.
“I don’t think they improve the built environment,” she said.
Councillors also raised concerns about whether the signs would obstruct people with wheelchairs or the visually impaired.
Richard Shakespeare, director of recreation and amenity at the council, said the disability officer would examine the signs and their positioning before they are put up.
There was an “appropriateness clause” in the contract between the council and Clear Channel to ensure only suitable advertising was carried on the signs.
“Politicians ads will of course be welcomed, provided you pay the rate,” he said.
Councillors also gave the go-ahead to retain a controversial car park on what was a circus field at Booterstown.
The development had angered local residents who claimed water birds at nearby Williamstown Creek could be threatened by the work.
The creek was designated a special protected area under the EU law Natura 2000.
Councillors voted 14 in favour and 13 against the development, which had already been built by the council.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Luas will spur development in west Dublin says Cowen
THE LUAS extension from Tallaght to Citywest will act as a catalyst for further development in west and southwest Dublin, the Taoiseach Brian Cowen has said.
He was speaking at an event to mark the contract award for the €150 million spur off the Red Line at Belgard running to Saggart in west Co Dublin. Passenger services on the 4.2km light rail link are expected to start in early 2011.
“The new line will deliver quality public transport services to established business and residential communities such as Cairnwood, Ambervale, Belgard Green, Fettercairn, Kilmartin, Brookview and Ardmore and facilitate the rapidly developing Citywest business and residential district,” he said.
“I am confident that this new line will act as a catalyst for further development.”
Mr Cowen welcomed that the line is being developed through a partnership between the public and private sectors. The consortium formed to partner the Railway Procurement Agency (RPA) on the project is Citywest Luas Ltd (CLL), comprising businessman Jim Mansfield’s company, HSS, the Davey Hickey property group and Harcourt Developments.
A spokesman for the RPA said the project would cost about €150 million, of which the consortium’s contribution is about 50 per cent.
CLL will provide the land, a large proportion of the civil and track works, a 300-space park and ride facility and a monetary contribution. The RPA is providing the remainder of the infrastructure, including rolling stock, and electrical and mechanical systems.
The contract signed yesterday was between CLL and the construction company BAM, formerly known as Ascon.
An Bord Pleanála approved the project in June. When it was first announced as part of Transport 21 in 2005, the completion date was put at 2008. This has since been revised to 2010.
Mr Cowen said the Government was committed to investment in infrastructure in spite of the difficult economic outlook. “Cutting capital investment would be a much easier step for Government but we will keep investing in order to sustain jobs and economic activity,” he said.
The Taoiseach said a €300 million cut in capital investment announced last week would be achieved through lower project costs. Referring to other Luas extensions, Mr Cowen added: “At the other end of the Red Line, the 1.5km extension to the Docklands is well advanced and will be completed by year-end. And the extension of the Green Line to Cherrywood remains on schedule for completion by end 2010.”
The RPA estimates four million extra passenger journeys will be made as a result of the extension to Citywest and Saggart. It also expects 1.5 million vehicle trips a year will be eliminated by 2016.
Marie Corr, mayor of South Dublin County Council, said the spur would be “a tremendous boost to Tallaght and its environs, from a transportation and also from an economical perspective.”
Fine Gael’s Seanad transport spokesman Senator Paschal Donohoe said: “It is a testament to the Government’s failure to plan adequately that workers in Citywest have been without a high-speed public transport link for over 10 years,” he said.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
He was speaking at an event to mark the contract award for the €150 million spur off the Red Line at Belgard running to Saggart in west Co Dublin. Passenger services on the 4.2km light rail link are expected to start in early 2011.
“The new line will deliver quality public transport services to established business and residential communities such as Cairnwood, Ambervale, Belgard Green, Fettercairn, Kilmartin, Brookview and Ardmore and facilitate the rapidly developing Citywest business and residential district,” he said.
“I am confident that this new line will act as a catalyst for further development.”
Mr Cowen welcomed that the line is being developed through a partnership between the public and private sectors. The consortium formed to partner the Railway Procurement Agency (RPA) on the project is Citywest Luas Ltd (CLL), comprising businessman Jim Mansfield’s company, HSS, the Davey Hickey property group and Harcourt Developments.
A spokesman for the RPA said the project would cost about €150 million, of which the consortium’s contribution is about 50 per cent.
CLL will provide the land, a large proportion of the civil and track works, a 300-space park and ride facility and a monetary contribution. The RPA is providing the remainder of the infrastructure, including rolling stock, and electrical and mechanical systems.
The contract signed yesterday was between CLL and the construction company BAM, formerly known as Ascon.
An Bord Pleanála approved the project in June. When it was first announced as part of Transport 21 in 2005, the completion date was put at 2008. This has since been revised to 2010.
Mr Cowen said the Government was committed to investment in infrastructure in spite of the difficult economic outlook. “Cutting capital investment would be a much easier step for Government but we will keep investing in order to sustain jobs and economic activity,” he said.
The Taoiseach said a €300 million cut in capital investment announced last week would be achieved through lower project costs. Referring to other Luas extensions, Mr Cowen added: “At the other end of the Red Line, the 1.5km extension to the Docklands is well advanced and will be completed by year-end. And the extension of the Green Line to Cherrywood remains on schedule for completion by end 2010.”
The RPA estimates four million extra passenger journeys will be made as a result of the extension to Citywest and Saggart. It also expects 1.5 million vehicle trips a year will be eliminated by 2016.
Marie Corr, mayor of South Dublin County Council, said the spur would be “a tremendous boost to Tallaght and its environs, from a transportation and also from an economical perspective.”
Fine Gael’s Seanad transport spokesman Senator Paschal Donohoe said: “It is a testament to the Government’s failure to plan adequately that workers in Citywest have been without a high-speed public transport link for over 10 years,” he said.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Shell lodging revised plans for Corrib gas pipeline
SHELL EP Ireland is lodging revised applications this week for State approval of its Corrib gas onshore pipeline in north Mayo.
The applications replace those submitted last year and subsequently withdrawn from An Bord Pleanála, with “minor realignments” to a modified route.
Separate consents are also being sought from Minister for Energy Eamon Ryan under the Gas Acts.
The original pipeline route, which led to protests and the controversial jailing of the Rossport Five over three years ago, was not submitted for planning approval as there was no State requirement.
Consents were signed for compulsory acquisition of private land for the route by former minister for the marine Frank Fahey before the 2002 general election.
An Bord Pleanála confirmed late last week that the revised submissions for the modified route could be considered under fast-tracking strategic infrastructure legislation.
The appeals board is also handling the developer’s application for compulsory acquisition of private land for the high-pressure pipeline route.
Shell lodged a foreshore licence application last week with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food in relation to the pipeline landfall and crossings.
RPS, consultants for Shell, say that the “minor realignments” to the “modified” route avoid more sensitive habitats, including bog pools in the Rossport commonage.
The consultants say that the route is “largely unchanged and remains a minimum of 140 metres from occupied dwellings”. The original route came within 70 metres of housing.
An Bord Pleanála had been seeking additional information from the developers on the modified route last year, and RPS says that this information is being submitted with this revised application. The board requested more details on the development’s impact on the stability of ground in the area; its environmental impact; and the impact of any extension of the life of wellfields or “extensification” of wellfields upstream.
The board also sought reports on a post-landslide site at Derrybrien wind farm in Co Galway, as referred to in the company’s environmental impact statement.
The proposed 9km route for the high-pressure pipeline runs from a landfall at Glengad under Dooncarton mountain, where there was a series of landslides in September 2003.
RPS has said that there is “no overall delay” to the project as a result of the time spent in lodging, withdrawing and relodging the planning application.
Shell EP Ireland said last night that a further period of public consultation will follow and details of the applications would be made publicly available through the RPS and Shell offices.
“All parties will have an opportunity to make submissions through the statutory consultation period,” it said.
Work on the gas refinery at Bellanaboy is expected to be completed this year, while the company also plans to lay its offshore pipeline.
Work on this was deferred after protests and an uncertain legal situation offshore.
Meanwhile, the Government’s new forum on the Corrib gas project is still hoping to engage with community groups in north Mayo who are not happy with its terms of reference and who have not so far participated in the hearings.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
The applications replace those submitted last year and subsequently withdrawn from An Bord Pleanála, with “minor realignments” to a modified route.
Separate consents are also being sought from Minister for Energy Eamon Ryan under the Gas Acts.
The original pipeline route, which led to protests and the controversial jailing of the Rossport Five over three years ago, was not submitted for planning approval as there was no State requirement.
Consents were signed for compulsory acquisition of private land for the route by former minister for the marine Frank Fahey before the 2002 general election.
An Bord Pleanála confirmed late last week that the revised submissions for the modified route could be considered under fast-tracking strategic infrastructure legislation.
The appeals board is also handling the developer’s application for compulsory acquisition of private land for the high-pressure pipeline route.
Shell lodged a foreshore licence application last week with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food in relation to the pipeline landfall and crossings.
RPS, consultants for Shell, say that the “minor realignments” to the “modified” route avoid more sensitive habitats, including bog pools in the Rossport commonage.
The consultants say that the route is “largely unchanged and remains a minimum of 140 metres from occupied dwellings”. The original route came within 70 metres of housing.
An Bord Pleanála had been seeking additional information from the developers on the modified route last year, and RPS says that this information is being submitted with this revised application. The board requested more details on the development’s impact on the stability of ground in the area; its environmental impact; and the impact of any extension of the life of wellfields or “extensification” of wellfields upstream.
The board also sought reports on a post-landslide site at Derrybrien wind farm in Co Galway, as referred to in the company’s environmental impact statement.
The proposed 9km route for the high-pressure pipeline runs from a landfall at Glengad under Dooncarton mountain, where there was a series of landslides in September 2003.
RPS has said that there is “no overall delay” to the project as a result of the time spent in lodging, withdrawing and relodging the planning application.
Shell EP Ireland said last night that a further period of public consultation will follow and details of the applications would be made publicly available through the RPS and Shell offices.
“All parties will have an opportunity to make submissions through the statutory consultation period,” it said.
Work on the gas refinery at Bellanaboy is expected to be completed this year, while the company also plans to lay its offshore pipeline.
Work on this was deferred after protests and an uncertain legal situation offshore.
Meanwhile, the Government’s new forum on the Corrib gas project is still hoping to engage with community groups in north Mayo who are not happy with its terms of reference and who have not so far participated in the hearings.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Monday, 9 February 2009
Smarter Travel - A Sustainable Transport Future
The Minister for Transport, Noel Dempsey, TD - accompanied by the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Mr Eamon Ryan, TD - have launched 'Smarter Travel - A Sustainable Transport Future'.
This is the Government’s action plan to bring sustainability to the centre of transport policy - by freeing our towns and cities from choking traffic congestion, slashing CO2 emissions and helping car-based commuters to leave their cars at home and to use other more sustainable forms of transport.
Minister Dempsey said - “Travel trends in Ireland are unsustainable. We can’t keep pouring cars onto our streets. Cities are grinding to a halt with choking traffic congestion and that can’t continue. This action plan that I am publishing today shows a different way and sets out how to get there. This is not simply a series of transport initiatives - it represents a radical transformation in transport policy that puts people, rather than vehicles, first. It has the potential to fundamentally change how we all travel.”
Minister Ryan added - “Today’s announcement is the beginning of a major change. It represents a fundamental reform of our transport systems. It is the first step in changing how we move and how we live. Our current transport patterns are unsustainable and make travel costly, time consuming and stressful.”
Smarter Travel - A Sustainable Transport Future sets out measures so that, by 2020, we can have thousands more people walking, cycling, using public transport and leaving their cars at home. With this action plan, the Government aims to change the transport mix in Ireland so that car share of total commutes drops from the current 65% to 45%.
This will involve new ways of approaching many aspects of policy-making in Ireland. It affects how we plan our schools and school curricula, influences where we develop residential areas and centres of employment in the future, opens up social and employment opportunities for people who experience reduced mobility and returns urban spaces to people rather than cars.
The 49 measures in Smarter Travel - A Sustainable Transport Future can be grouped under four key headings -
* Actions to reduce distance travelled by private car and encourage smarter travel, including focusing population and employment growth predominantly in larger urban areas
* Actions aimed at ensuring that alternatives to the car are more widely available, mainly through a radically improved and more accessible public transport service and through investment in cycling and walking
* Actions aimed at improving the fuel efficiency of motorised transport through improved fleet structure, energy efficient driving and alternative technologies - and
* Actions aimed at strengthening institutional arrangements to deliver the targets.
“This new policy framework approved by the Government will have long-term positive benefits for all our citizens. While changing travel behaviour will take time, these benefits - particularly the health, environmental and quality of life dividends - will accrue not only during the implementation phase of the proposals, but also beyond 2020. We are, today, setting out our clear policy decision to put people - and not cars - at the centre of our transport planning and delivery in future” - concluded Minister Dempsey.
Smarter Travel - A Sustainable Transport Future aims that, by 2020 we will -
* Move over 500,000 potential car-based commuters to other more sustainable forms of transport
* Slash CO2 emissions by at least 4 million tonnes
* Ensure that electric vehicles account for 10% of all vehicles on our roads
* Move over 150,000 people to work by bike
* Create regional e-working centres to help cut commuting times
* Create an all-island car sharing website
* Invest in new, safer cycling and walking routes - and
* Invest in more park-and-ride facilities on the outskirts of our major cities.
Key Initiatives in Smarter Travel - A Sustainable Transport Future -
* Future Government investment in public facilities to take account of the need to give priority to walking, cycling and public transport as primary means of access
* A focus on catering for future population and employment growth predominantly in sustainable urban areas
* Support for greater flexibility in work patterns and e-working, with the public sector acting as an exemplar
* Development of a strategy for the freight sector aimed at reducing environmental impact, while improving efficiency and competitiveness
* Redesign of urban bus services to achieve optimum use of the existing fleet and additional resources as necessary
* Scheduled bus services in significant centres of population and, for other areas, 7-day-a-week access to transport services
* The delivery of a National Cycle Policy Framework
* The development of a National Walking Policy with provision of safe pedestrian routes linked, where appropriate, with public transport services
* Support for car-sharing initiatives
* Delivery of integrated ticketing
* Fast-tracking of park-and-ride facilities
* Engagement at international level to ensure use of low polluting fuels in maritime operations
* Support for use of vehicles that do not rely on internal combustion engines (e.g. electric vehicles and hydrogen powered vehicles)
* 10% of car fleet to be electric by 2020
* Efficient driving to become part of the driving test
* Establishment of demonstration sustainable travel towns.
www.buckplanning.ie
This is the Government’s action plan to bring sustainability to the centre of transport policy - by freeing our towns and cities from choking traffic congestion, slashing CO2 emissions and helping car-based commuters to leave their cars at home and to use other more sustainable forms of transport.
Minister Dempsey said - “Travel trends in Ireland are unsustainable. We can’t keep pouring cars onto our streets. Cities are grinding to a halt with choking traffic congestion and that can’t continue. This action plan that I am publishing today shows a different way and sets out how to get there. This is not simply a series of transport initiatives - it represents a radical transformation in transport policy that puts people, rather than vehicles, first. It has the potential to fundamentally change how we all travel.”
Minister Ryan added - “Today’s announcement is the beginning of a major change. It represents a fundamental reform of our transport systems. It is the first step in changing how we move and how we live. Our current transport patterns are unsustainable and make travel costly, time consuming and stressful.”
Smarter Travel - A Sustainable Transport Future sets out measures so that, by 2020, we can have thousands more people walking, cycling, using public transport and leaving their cars at home. With this action plan, the Government aims to change the transport mix in Ireland so that car share of total commutes drops from the current 65% to 45%.
This will involve new ways of approaching many aspects of policy-making in Ireland. It affects how we plan our schools and school curricula, influences where we develop residential areas and centres of employment in the future, opens up social and employment opportunities for people who experience reduced mobility and returns urban spaces to people rather than cars.
The 49 measures in Smarter Travel - A Sustainable Transport Future can be grouped under four key headings -
* Actions to reduce distance travelled by private car and encourage smarter travel, including focusing population and employment growth predominantly in larger urban areas
* Actions aimed at ensuring that alternatives to the car are more widely available, mainly through a radically improved and more accessible public transport service and through investment in cycling and walking
* Actions aimed at improving the fuel efficiency of motorised transport through improved fleet structure, energy efficient driving and alternative technologies - and
* Actions aimed at strengthening institutional arrangements to deliver the targets.
“This new policy framework approved by the Government will have long-term positive benefits for all our citizens. While changing travel behaviour will take time, these benefits - particularly the health, environmental and quality of life dividends - will accrue not only during the implementation phase of the proposals, but also beyond 2020. We are, today, setting out our clear policy decision to put people - and not cars - at the centre of our transport planning and delivery in future” - concluded Minister Dempsey.
Smarter Travel - A Sustainable Transport Future aims that, by 2020 we will -
* Move over 500,000 potential car-based commuters to other more sustainable forms of transport
* Slash CO2 emissions by at least 4 million tonnes
* Ensure that electric vehicles account for 10% of all vehicles on our roads
* Move over 150,000 people to work by bike
* Create regional e-working centres to help cut commuting times
* Create an all-island car sharing website
* Invest in new, safer cycling and walking routes - and
* Invest in more park-and-ride facilities on the outskirts of our major cities.
Key Initiatives in Smarter Travel - A Sustainable Transport Future -
* Future Government investment in public facilities to take account of the need to give priority to walking, cycling and public transport as primary means of access
* A focus on catering for future population and employment growth predominantly in sustainable urban areas
* Support for greater flexibility in work patterns and e-working, with the public sector acting as an exemplar
* Development of a strategy for the freight sector aimed at reducing environmental impact, while improving efficiency and competitiveness
* Redesign of urban bus services to achieve optimum use of the existing fleet and additional resources as necessary
* Scheduled bus services in significant centres of population and, for other areas, 7-day-a-week access to transport services
* The delivery of a National Cycle Policy Framework
* The development of a National Walking Policy with provision of safe pedestrian routes linked, where appropriate, with public transport services
* Support for car-sharing initiatives
* Delivery of integrated ticketing
* Fast-tracking of park-and-ride facilities
* Engagement at international level to ensure use of low polluting fuels in maritime operations
* Support for use of vehicles that do not rely on internal combustion engines (e.g. electric vehicles and hydrogen powered vehicles)
* 10% of car fleet to be electric by 2020
* Efficient driving to become part of the driving test
* Establishment of demonstration sustainable travel towns.
www.buckplanning.ie
An Bord Pleanála overrules own inspector to let Annascaul mast go ahead
RESIDENTS of an historic west Kerry village have vowed to continue their campaign against an Eircom mast after an Bord Pleanála overruled its own inspector to give the project the green light.
The people of Annascaul, birthplace of legendary Antarctic explorer Tom Crean, said they cannot afford to instigate a judicial review of the decision.
But they say they are determined to keep up their campaign of opposition to the proposed 15-metre mast, earmarked for a site in the heart of the village.
The fact that the planning appeals board gave the green light to Eircom for the development, even though a board inspector recommended that permission be refused, has angered local residents.
Senior planning inspector Robert Ryan said the mast would be contrary to proper planning for the area, would seriously injure the amenities of property in the vicinity, and would be "visually obtrusive" in the village.
A spokesman for a group of objectors said they were shocked and disgusted by the board’s decision.
"There was no consultation with the local community and we don’t believe enough research was carried out to find a more suitable location for the mast," he said. The mast is due to be located beside Eircom’s existing exchange in the grounds of the former Church of Ireland.
Possible health hazards and devaluation of property are among the reasons for objections by local people.
Kerry County Council refused planning permission for the mast last April under its policy of not allowing such masts within a kilometre of houses, other residential buildings, hospitals and schools.
Annascaul, in the Dingle Peninsula, is the birthplace of Antarctic explorer Tom Crean in whose memory a monument has been erected in the village.
Irish Examiner
www.buckplanning.ie
The people of Annascaul, birthplace of legendary Antarctic explorer Tom Crean, said they cannot afford to instigate a judicial review of the decision.
But they say they are determined to keep up their campaign of opposition to the proposed 15-metre mast, earmarked for a site in the heart of the village.
The fact that the planning appeals board gave the green light to Eircom for the development, even though a board inspector recommended that permission be refused, has angered local residents.
Senior planning inspector Robert Ryan said the mast would be contrary to proper planning for the area, would seriously injure the amenities of property in the vicinity, and would be "visually obtrusive" in the village.
A spokesman for a group of objectors said they were shocked and disgusted by the board’s decision.
"There was no consultation with the local community and we don’t believe enough research was carried out to find a more suitable location for the mast," he said. The mast is due to be located beside Eircom’s existing exchange in the grounds of the former Church of Ireland.
Possible health hazards and devaluation of property are among the reasons for objections by local people.
Kerry County Council refused planning permission for the mast last April under its policy of not allowing such masts within a kilometre of houses, other residential buildings, hospitals and schools.
Annascaul, in the Dingle Peninsula, is the birthplace of Antarctic explorer Tom Crean in whose memory a monument has been erected in the village.
Irish Examiner
www.buckplanning.ie
Council may not get infrastructure funds over Ennis rezoning
THE DEPARTMENT of the Environment has warned Clare County Council that is it likely to miss out on Government infrastructural investment unless it reverses rezoning decisions for the greater Ennis area.
The department has also told the council that its rezoning of land for housing may result in possible legal action from the European Commission. The intervention by the department follows the council rezoning land to cater for a population growth from 30,000 to 100,000 when the department says the likely increase is only 6,500.
In adopting the Greater Ennis Development Plan last December, councillors snubbed Minister for the Environment John Gormley by ignoring his recommendations to reverse rezonings of large tracts of land. Instead of tightening restrictions on one-off housing, councillors loosened the rules.
Now, in a letter to the council from the Minister’s private secretary, Eddie Kiernan, seen by The Irish Times, he has told the council it has rezoned land to cater for population growth from almost 30,000 to over 100,000. Mr Kiernan said the department believes the rezonings are “unsustainable” and that the expected population growth over the period of the plan is only 6,500.
He said: “In such circumstances and without any clear phasing of lands for development, the plan provides for an ad-hoc and development-led approach to planning, making the efficient and orderly provision of physical and social infrastructure more difficult to achieve.” He added: “In the current economic climate, departments and agencies must consider how they should prioritise their resources to deliver best value for money.
“However, without a development plan that is coherent and consistent with regional and national policies and indeed with growth forecasts set down in the county development plan and housing strategy, the Ennis and environs plan as adopted fails to provide the necessary framework underpinning the value for money for infrastructural investment.
Mr Kiernan said department officials will arrange a meeting with the council on the matters raised. The issue is also likely to be discussed by the council at its February meeting.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
The department has also told the council that its rezoning of land for housing may result in possible legal action from the European Commission. The intervention by the department follows the council rezoning land to cater for a population growth from 30,000 to 100,000 when the department says the likely increase is only 6,500.
In adopting the Greater Ennis Development Plan last December, councillors snubbed Minister for the Environment John Gormley by ignoring his recommendations to reverse rezonings of large tracts of land. Instead of tightening restrictions on one-off housing, councillors loosened the rules.
Now, in a letter to the council from the Minister’s private secretary, Eddie Kiernan, seen by The Irish Times, he has told the council it has rezoned land to cater for population growth from almost 30,000 to over 100,000. Mr Kiernan said the department believes the rezonings are “unsustainable” and that the expected population growth over the period of the plan is only 6,500.
He said: “In such circumstances and without any clear phasing of lands for development, the plan provides for an ad-hoc and development-led approach to planning, making the efficient and orderly provision of physical and social infrastructure more difficult to achieve.” He added: “In the current economic climate, departments and agencies must consider how they should prioritise their resources to deliver best value for money.
“However, without a development plan that is coherent and consistent with regional and national policies and indeed with growth forecasts set down in the county development plan and housing strategy, the Ennis and environs plan as adopted fails to provide the necessary framework underpinning the value for money for infrastructural investment.
Mr Kiernan said department officials will arrange a meeting with the council on the matters raised. The issue is also likely to be discussed by the council at its February meeting.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Planning board to review car park plan
AN BORD Pleanála is to review a decision by Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council to build a car park on what was a circus field in Booterstown, south Dublin.
The development had angered local residents, who had claimed water birds at nearby Williamstown Creek could be threatened by the work. Williamstown Creek was designated a special protected area under EU law.
Historically, the site, which is zoned for open space and amenity, had been used by visiting circuses.
Work on the site began shortly before Christmas. A car park was constructed and associated land drainage work was carried out. The site is to be used as an overflow car park for the nearby Dart station.
In a report to be considered by the council tonight, county manager Owen Keegan said work on the circus field was exempted development because it was under the threshold value of €126,000 laid down in planning legislation. It therefore did not need planning permission, he said.
He also said the work carried out did not contravene the council’s county development plan. And he said Iarnród Éireann had said their co-operation with a project in Dún Laoghaire is contingent on their use of the circus field as a car park.
He has recommended that councillors accept the development.
However, former Progressive Democrats councillor Victor Boyhan is hoping councillors will defer their decision on the circus field until a Bord Pleanála report is completed.
He has petitioned the planning board to carry out a review of the development. The board has 18 weeks to carry out the review.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
The development had angered local residents, who had claimed water birds at nearby Williamstown Creek could be threatened by the work. Williamstown Creek was designated a special protected area under EU law.
Historically, the site, which is zoned for open space and amenity, had been used by visiting circuses.
Work on the site began shortly before Christmas. A car park was constructed and associated land drainage work was carried out. The site is to be used as an overflow car park for the nearby Dart station.
In a report to be considered by the council tonight, county manager Owen Keegan said work on the circus field was exempted development because it was under the threshold value of €126,000 laid down in planning legislation. It therefore did not need planning permission, he said.
He also said the work carried out did not contravene the council’s county development plan. And he said Iarnród Éireann had said their co-operation with a project in Dún Laoghaire is contingent on their use of the circus field as a car park.
He has recommended that councillors accept the development.
However, former Progressive Democrats councillor Victor Boyhan is hoping councillors will defer their decision on the circus field until a Bord Pleanála report is completed.
He has petitioned the planning board to carry out a review of the development. The board has 18 weeks to carry out the review.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Dún Laoghaire Rathdown councillors consider erection of 60 advert signs
COUNCILLORS IN Dún Laoghaire Rathdown Co Council are to consider tonight plans to erect 60 outdoor advertising signs in various locations throughout the local authority area.
The signs, originally planned for locations including the heritage village of Dalkey, will be erected by outdoor advertising company Clear Channel Ireland.
They will measure 2sq m (21½sq ft) and the elevation will extend to bus shelter height, the council has said.
Moreover the intention is that the signage will be scrolling and double sided.
Revenue from the project will generate €10 million for the council over 10 years. Contracts are expected to be signed with Clear Channel in the next two weeks.
The money is to be ring-fenced for the council’s recreation and amenity budget.
The council has also entered into discussions with another outdoor signage provider in relation to the provision of larger “metropole” structures. It is understood this signage will come before councillors for discussion in April.
Planning permission or public consultation will not be required for the signs, the council has said, because they will be developed separately and will come under the €126,000 threshold, which would require the council to initiate a part VIII public consultation process under planning legislation.
Technically, councillors do not have the final say on the signs. However, county manager Owen Keegan is required to inform them of the development and they could block it using a section 140 motion if they felt strongly enough.
The director of environment and culture at the council, Richard Shakespeare, said that when the sites for the 60 signs were originally mooted, councillors had raised concerns about some of them.
The council’s heritage officer then assessed the sites and identified 10 as being in sensitive areas.
Mr Shakespeare said that he would try to find alternatives to the 10 sites, although he thought the signs could be fine if they were “tastefully done”.
“We are cognisant of concerns around having these signs in architectural conservation areas, in designated heritage areas or too close to listed structures,” he said.
He said the funding from the signs would provide much needed resources to the area of recreation and amenity, which would be difficult to finance in the current economic climate.
“In effect, we can bullet-proof those budgets,” he said.
Councillors have also been informed that €700,000 of the monies due for 2009 from the signage has already been included by the council as part of its 2009 budget.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
The signs, originally planned for locations including the heritage village of Dalkey, will be erected by outdoor advertising company Clear Channel Ireland.
They will measure 2sq m (21½sq ft) and the elevation will extend to bus shelter height, the council has said.
Moreover the intention is that the signage will be scrolling and double sided.
Revenue from the project will generate €10 million for the council over 10 years. Contracts are expected to be signed with Clear Channel in the next two weeks.
The money is to be ring-fenced for the council’s recreation and amenity budget.
The council has also entered into discussions with another outdoor signage provider in relation to the provision of larger “metropole” structures. It is understood this signage will come before councillors for discussion in April.
Planning permission or public consultation will not be required for the signs, the council has said, because they will be developed separately and will come under the €126,000 threshold, which would require the council to initiate a part VIII public consultation process under planning legislation.
Technically, councillors do not have the final say on the signs. However, county manager Owen Keegan is required to inform them of the development and they could block it using a section 140 motion if they felt strongly enough.
The director of environment and culture at the council, Richard Shakespeare, said that when the sites for the 60 signs were originally mooted, councillors had raised concerns about some of them.
The council’s heritage officer then assessed the sites and identified 10 as being in sensitive areas.
Mr Shakespeare said that he would try to find alternatives to the 10 sites, although he thought the signs could be fine if they were “tastefully done”.
“We are cognisant of concerns around having these signs in architectural conservation areas, in designated heritage areas or too close to listed structures,” he said.
He said the funding from the signs would provide much needed resources to the area of recreation and amenity, which would be difficult to finance in the current economic climate.
“In effect, we can bullet-proof those budgets,” he said.
Councillors have also been informed that €700,000 of the monies due for 2009 from the signage has already been included by the council as part of its 2009 budget.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
€100m insulation scheme to benefit 50,000 homes
A €100 MILLION national insulation programme will benefit 50,000 homes and employ 4,000 people during 2009, Minister for Energy Eamon Ryan has said.
Mr Ryan said the programme would save money through reduced heating bills, reduce carbon emissions and also create thousands of jobs directly and indirectly.
“This is the equivalent of putting the plug in the bath,” he said. “Insulation makes homes warmer and more comfortable. Householders can expect to have their heating bills reduced by €700 per annum.”
However, at this stage, Mr Ryan accepted no funding has yet been guaranteed for 2010 or beyond. It is estimated that at least one million homes of Ireland’s 1.7 million housing stock are in need of retrofitting.
Two separate areas have been allotted €50 million each in funding; a home energy saving scheme as well as two separate schemes targeting those on lower incomes and in social housing. Under the home energy scheme, targeted at private middle-income homes, householders will get grant aid of between €500 and about €5,000 for improvements carried out on the insulation of their homes. All dwellings constructed prior to 2006 will be eligible.
The lowest grant available is €250 for improved attic insulation, which will provide 30 per cent of the cost for a typical suburban house of carrying out this measure. The largest single grant is a €4,000 contribution to work on external wall insulation. This will contribute an estimated 21 per cent of the €19,000 cost for a typical home. Householders are entitled to avail of all the grants that are applicable to their own situation.
Estimates provided by the department say that most of the investments can be fully recouped within six years, save for wall insulation, which will take between seven and 20 years, depending on the house.
Mr Ryan also said that he has already spoken to four of the main banks to persuade them to lend to homeowners getting involved in the programme and had received positive feedback.
“There is a lot of support. They see that it makes sense. It’s an attractive prospect. Banks have a real opportunity and role here to make up the amount. This is the best lending that you can do,” he said.
Mr Ryan was speaking at a press conference in Government Buildings which was also attended by Minster for the Environment John Gormley and Prof Owen Wilson, the CEO of Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI), which will administer the scheme.
Prof Wilson said that the SEI was “open for business” on the initiative. However, he said that the body would need immediately to begin a registration programme for contractors with the required competence to carry out such works. The other €50 million will expand the existing Warmer Homes Scheme (WHS) for low income households and a scheme aimed at social housing. WHS is currently being administered by 20 community-based organisations throughout the country. Upgrades available include the provision of lagging jackets, attic insulation, cavity wall insulation and draught-proofing.
The Opposition parties gave a guarded welcome to the announcement yesterday. Fine Gael energy spokesman Simon Coveney said the principle was a good one but said that he would be robustly testing the figures to see if it provided value for money.
Liz McManus of the Labour Party said she was glad that at long last a scheme that had been promised for so long had been delivered. “I think they could have gone further,” she said. “I am convinced that people on higher incomes who have savings would have been persuaded to invest if they got tax relief for doing so.”
How the scheme works
THE SCHEME is aimed at middle-income homes and claims that energy savings of €700 per year can be achieved.
Six different types of work to retrofit houses and improve insulation are eligible under the scheme. A minimum level of investment will be required of householders to participate.
The minimum grant is €500 which means that householders doing either attic insulation (grant of €250) or cavity wall insulation (grant of €500) will be required to carry out at least one other action if they are to quality.
Estimates for payback on investment range from three years (attic insulation) to a maximum of 20 years for external wall insulation.
* Attic insulation: A maximum grant of €250 is available. This covers 30 per cent of the estimated €830 bill. The cost will be fully paid back in 3-6 years.
* Wall insulation. Homeowners will have a choice between three forms: cavity wall; external; or internal. Cavity is the most economical and external the most expensive. The grant for cavity insulation is €400 which will be a third of the typical cost. Some €2.500 of the €9,000 required for internal wall insulation will be grant-aided while €4,000 will be available of the €19,000 needed for external wall insulation.
* Between €500 to €700 will be available for heating control upgrades.
* €200 will be paid towards a building energy rating assessment.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Mr Ryan said the programme would save money through reduced heating bills, reduce carbon emissions and also create thousands of jobs directly and indirectly.
“This is the equivalent of putting the plug in the bath,” he said. “Insulation makes homes warmer and more comfortable. Householders can expect to have their heating bills reduced by €700 per annum.”
However, at this stage, Mr Ryan accepted no funding has yet been guaranteed for 2010 or beyond. It is estimated that at least one million homes of Ireland’s 1.7 million housing stock are in need of retrofitting.
Two separate areas have been allotted €50 million each in funding; a home energy saving scheme as well as two separate schemes targeting those on lower incomes and in social housing. Under the home energy scheme, targeted at private middle-income homes, householders will get grant aid of between €500 and about €5,000 for improvements carried out on the insulation of their homes. All dwellings constructed prior to 2006 will be eligible.
The lowest grant available is €250 for improved attic insulation, which will provide 30 per cent of the cost for a typical suburban house of carrying out this measure. The largest single grant is a €4,000 contribution to work on external wall insulation. This will contribute an estimated 21 per cent of the €19,000 cost for a typical home. Householders are entitled to avail of all the grants that are applicable to their own situation.
Estimates provided by the department say that most of the investments can be fully recouped within six years, save for wall insulation, which will take between seven and 20 years, depending on the house.
Mr Ryan also said that he has already spoken to four of the main banks to persuade them to lend to homeowners getting involved in the programme and had received positive feedback.
“There is a lot of support. They see that it makes sense. It’s an attractive prospect. Banks have a real opportunity and role here to make up the amount. This is the best lending that you can do,” he said.
Mr Ryan was speaking at a press conference in Government Buildings which was also attended by Minster for the Environment John Gormley and Prof Owen Wilson, the CEO of Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI), which will administer the scheme.
Prof Wilson said that the SEI was “open for business” on the initiative. However, he said that the body would need immediately to begin a registration programme for contractors with the required competence to carry out such works. The other €50 million will expand the existing Warmer Homes Scheme (WHS) for low income households and a scheme aimed at social housing. WHS is currently being administered by 20 community-based organisations throughout the country. Upgrades available include the provision of lagging jackets, attic insulation, cavity wall insulation and draught-proofing.
The Opposition parties gave a guarded welcome to the announcement yesterday. Fine Gael energy spokesman Simon Coveney said the principle was a good one but said that he would be robustly testing the figures to see if it provided value for money.
Liz McManus of the Labour Party said she was glad that at long last a scheme that had been promised for so long had been delivered. “I think they could have gone further,” she said. “I am convinced that people on higher incomes who have savings would have been persuaded to invest if they got tax relief for doing so.”
How the scheme works
THE SCHEME is aimed at middle-income homes and claims that energy savings of €700 per year can be achieved.
Six different types of work to retrofit houses and improve insulation are eligible under the scheme. A minimum level of investment will be required of householders to participate.
The minimum grant is €500 which means that householders doing either attic insulation (grant of €250) or cavity wall insulation (grant of €500) will be required to carry out at least one other action if they are to quality.
Estimates for payback on investment range from three years (attic insulation) to a maximum of 20 years for external wall insulation.
* Attic insulation: A maximum grant of €250 is available. This covers 30 per cent of the estimated €830 bill. The cost will be fully paid back in 3-6 years.
* Wall insulation. Homeowners will have a choice between three forms: cavity wall; external; or internal. Cavity is the most economical and external the most expensive. The grant for cavity insulation is €400 which will be a third of the typical cost. Some €2.500 of the €9,000 required for internal wall insulation will be grant-aided while €4,000 will be available of the €19,000 needed for external wall insulation.
* Between €500 to €700 will be available for heating control upgrades.
* €200 will be paid towards a building energy rating assessment.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Sunday, 8 February 2009
O'Brien in plans for new office scheme in Dublin 4
Telecoms entrepreneur Denis O'Brien has applied for the third time for planning permission to develop an office block in Donnybrook, Dublin 4. A previous attempt to develop a 26-storey tower on the former Bizquip shop was refused permission in 2005 and a subsequent attempt to develop a six-storey office block was turned down by An Bord Pleanála last year.
Now O'Brien is planning to develop two five-storey buildings on the 0.67 acre site. The scheme would contain seven shops and nearly 6,000sq m of offices.
The last application was turned down because it would be "out of scale and out of character with adjoining properties" and would overshadow rear gardens of adjoining properties.
Sunday Tribune
www.buckplanning.ie
Now O'Brien is planning to develop two five-storey buildings on the 0.67 acre site. The scheme would contain seven shops and nearly 6,000sq m of offices.
The last application was turned down because it would be "out of scale and out of character with adjoining properties" and would overshadow rear gardens of adjoining properties.
Sunday Tribune
www.buckplanning.ie
Swords mall extension to provide 3,000 jobs
Up to 3,000 construction jobs are to be created in north Dublin after the €500m expansion of the Pavilions shopping centre in Swords was given the go-ahead by Fingal County Council.
However, developer Joe O'Reilly's company, Chartered Land, may have to pay more than €50m in levies as part of the conditions imposed by the local authority.
The authority has told O'Reilly he will have to pay €24.1m towards public infrastructure and facilities, up to €15m towards a metro box, up to €7m on metro plaza and more than €6.1m in respect of the Metro North proposal.
Chartered Land originally applied for 137 shops including House of Fraser and Marks & Spencer as part of what will be the third phase of the centre. Permission was also sought for 35 restaurants, an office block, a pub, childcare facilities, a medical centre, 189 residential units and more than 3,000 parking spaces. The extension is planned for completion in 2013.
Chartered Land bought the complex in July 2006 for €575m and later sold part of the centre to the Irish Property Unit Trust and Irish Life for around €240m.
Sunday Tribune
www.buckplanning.ie
However, developer Joe O'Reilly's company, Chartered Land, may have to pay more than €50m in levies as part of the conditions imposed by the local authority.
The authority has told O'Reilly he will have to pay €24.1m towards public infrastructure and facilities, up to €15m towards a metro box, up to €7m on metro plaza and more than €6.1m in respect of the Metro North proposal.
Chartered Land originally applied for 137 shops including House of Fraser and Marks & Spencer as part of what will be the third phase of the centre. Permission was also sought for 35 restaurants, an office block, a pub, childcare facilities, a medical centre, 189 residential units and more than 3,000 parking spaces. The extension is planned for completion in 2013.
Chartered Land bought the complex in July 2006 for €575m and later sold part of the centre to the Irish Property Unit Trust and Irish Life for around €240m.
Sunday Tribune
www.buckplanning.ie
Crosbie wants planning changes to Watchtower
Businessman Harry Crosbie is in negotiations with the Dublin Docklands Development Authority (DDDA) about altering the use of his proposed 120-metre skyscraper in Dublin.
Crosbie is asking the DDDA to allow him to develop part of the proposed Watchtower for offices and commercial use, rather than for apartments as originally planned. The request comes as a result of the decline in the residential property market.
The 40-storey tower is the centrepiece of Crosbie’s Point Village, a €850 million urban regeneration scheme on a 12acre site beside the O2 music venue. A spokesman for Crosbie last week rejected previous reports that the tower would be delayed.
However, he said that the Watchtower was now likely to be ‘‘refocused’’ from residential to commercial use. The alteration requires the permission of the DDDA, and the spokesman said that negotiations were ongoing about the proposed changes.
The DDDA had intended that the Watchtower would form one-half of a ‘‘maritime gateway’’ to Dublin, standing across the river Liffey from the planned U2Tower. However, the U2-backed project was put on hold for at least a year last October.
Last week, Crosbie claimed that the financing of the Point Village was being jeopardised by the failure of Dunnes Stores to complete an agreement to become anchor tenant at the project. He is seeking an order requiring Dunnes to pay €23 million allegedly due under the agreement. The case has been sent to arbitration.
Sunday Business Post
www.buckplanning.ie
Crosbie is asking the DDDA to allow him to develop part of the proposed Watchtower for offices and commercial use, rather than for apartments as originally planned. The request comes as a result of the decline in the residential property market.
The 40-storey tower is the centrepiece of Crosbie’s Point Village, a €850 million urban regeneration scheme on a 12acre site beside the O2 music venue. A spokesman for Crosbie last week rejected previous reports that the tower would be delayed.
However, he said that the Watchtower was now likely to be ‘‘refocused’’ from residential to commercial use. The alteration requires the permission of the DDDA, and the spokesman said that negotiations were ongoing about the proposed changes.
The DDDA had intended that the Watchtower would form one-half of a ‘‘maritime gateway’’ to Dublin, standing across the river Liffey from the planned U2Tower. However, the U2-backed project was put on hold for at least a year last October.
Last week, Crosbie claimed that the financing of the Point Village was being jeopardised by the failure of Dunnes Stores to complete an agreement to become anchor tenant at the project. He is seeking an order requiring Dunnes to pay €23 million allegedly due under the agreement. The case has been sent to arbitration.
Sunday Business Post
www.buckplanning.ie
Thursday, 5 February 2009
No permission required for council's billboards
IN THESE tough times, the pressure is on local authorities to come up with new revenue streams. Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council must surely win the prize for most innovative plan to boost the coffers.
It plans to rake in €10m over 10 years by erecting 60 freestanding advertising billboards throughout its area, if its proposal is approved by councillors. One wonders what residents are going to make of the prospect of these tall freestanding advertising structures popping up on their doorsteps. The council won’t reveal exact locations, saying a report outlining the proposed sites will be presented at a council meeting next Monday, some of the pinpointed sites are in conservation areas, like Dalkey and Monkstown.
A spokesperson for the council says that no planning permission will be required if the plan goes ahead. “The proposal will be considered by the public representatives on behalf of local residents.” Indeed. In 2007 the council sought expressions of interest from media firms for the right to erect advertising structures and sell space on them. It is believed that Clear Channel Ireland was chosen and the projected revenue over the course of the contract was over €10m.
The council says the proceeds will be used to “consolidate and increase the expenditure in recreation and amenity of the council budget” and already €700,000 of 2009 expenditure has been incurred on the basis of this revenue stream.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
It plans to rake in €10m over 10 years by erecting 60 freestanding advertising billboards throughout its area, if its proposal is approved by councillors. One wonders what residents are going to make of the prospect of these tall freestanding advertising structures popping up on their doorsteps. The council won’t reveal exact locations, saying a report outlining the proposed sites will be presented at a council meeting next Monday, some of the pinpointed sites are in conservation areas, like Dalkey and Monkstown.
A spokesperson for the council says that no planning permission will be required if the plan goes ahead. “The proposal will be considered by the public representatives on behalf of local residents.” Indeed. In 2007 the council sought expressions of interest from media firms for the right to erect advertising structures and sell space on them. It is believed that Clear Channel Ireland was chosen and the projected revenue over the course of the contract was over €10m.
The council says the proceeds will be used to “consolidate and increase the expenditure in recreation and amenity of the council budget” and already €700,000 of 2009 expenditure has been incurred on the basis of this revenue stream.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
New inquiry into councillor's role in rezoning
THE HIGH Court has directed Wicklow County Council’s ethics registrar to carry out a fresh inquiry into a complaint by Green Party Senator Deirdre de Búrca that Fianna Fáil councillor Facthna Whittle, who is also a solicitor, breached ethics legislation by proposing and voting for a quarry rezoning motion without disclosing his law firm had acted for the quarry owner in legal proceedings.
Mr Justice John Hedigan yesterday ruled the council’s ethics committee had not dealt with the correct questions in its report reviewing the conduct of Mr Whittle.
A report by the council and the county manager in June 2005 had concluded that Mr Whittle had acted unwisely but had not breached ethics legislation.
Quashing that report yesterday and directing the council’s ethics registrar to review the matter, the judge said it did not seem possible to him that the committee could have reached the conclusions it did had it properly construed the provisions of the Local Government Act 2001 relating to the ethical framework for local government service.
The judge also said criticism levelled at Ms de Búrca in the media in the wake of the report, was “unfair and vitriolic”.
She was not a crank seeking to disturb the administrative regime but had a well-founded actionable interest to ensure that high ethical standards in public office are maintained, he said.
In her challenge to the committee’s report, Ms de Búrca argued the authors of the report had simply failed to ask themselves the correct question: did Mr Whittle have a beneficial interest, within the meaning of Section 176.2 of the 2001 Act, in the motion? As a solicitor whose firm was acting for the landowner involved, Ms de Búrca’s case was that he did.
The report was compiled after Ms de Búrca formally complained to the ethics registrar of the council about Mr Whittle’s conduct during a council meeting on the county development plan on July 12th, 2004.
Mr Whittle had proposed the rezoning of lands at Ballylusk, Ashford, to extend a quarry there.
Ms de Búrca claimed Mr Whittle breached the ethics provisions because he failed to disclose that the solicitors’ firm of which he is principal was acting for the quarry owner in legal proceedings concerning the planning status of the site.
Mr Whittle had argued he was only aware of the judicial review proceedings concerning the landowner in a general way and even if the rezoning had been adopted, it would have had no effect on those proceedings.
In his judgment, Mr Justice Hedigan said he was quashing the report and remitting the matter for further consideration to the council’s ethics registrar under which councillors provide details of declarable interests as part of their annual declaration.
He said he did not find merit in the arguments of the council and Mr Whittle that the report had dealt with the correct questions in the absence of clear evidence to the contrary. The council had patently failed to consider the concept of a deemed beneficial interest under Section 176 (2) of the Act and in failing to do so, had made “a serious error of law”.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Mr Justice John Hedigan yesterday ruled the council’s ethics committee had not dealt with the correct questions in its report reviewing the conduct of Mr Whittle.
A report by the council and the county manager in June 2005 had concluded that Mr Whittle had acted unwisely but had not breached ethics legislation.
Quashing that report yesterday and directing the council’s ethics registrar to review the matter, the judge said it did not seem possible to him that the committee could have reached the conclusions it did had it properly construed the provisions of the Local Government Act 2001 relating to the ethical framework for local government service.
The judge also said criticism levelled at Ms de Búrca in the media in the wake of the report, was “unfair and vitriolic”.
She was not a crank seeking to disturb the administrative regime but had a well-founded actionable interest to ensure that high ethical standards in public office are maintained, he said.
In her challenge to the committee’s report, Ms de Búrca argued the authors of the report had simply failed to ask themselves the correct question: did Mr Whittle have a beneficial interest, within the meaning of Section 176.2 of the 2001 Act, in the motion? As a solicitor whose firm was acting for the landowner involved, Ms de Búrca’s case was that he did.
The report was compiled after Ms de Búrca formally complained to the ethics registrar of the council about Mr Whittle’s conduct during a council meeting on the county development plan on July 12th, 2004.
Mr Whittle had proposed the rezoning of lands at Ballylusk, Ashford, to extend a quarry there.
Ms de Búrca claimed Mr Whittle breached the ethics provisions because he failed to disclose that the solicitors’ firm of which he is principal was acting for the quarry owner in legal proceedings concerning the planning status of the site.
Mr Whittle had argued he was only aware of the judicial review proceedings concerning the landowner in a general way and even if the rezoning had been adopted, it would have had no effect on those proceedings.
In his judgment, Mr Justice Hedigan said he was quashing the report and remitting the matter for further consideration to the council’s ethics registrar under which councillors provide details of declarable interests as part of their annual declaration.
He said he did not find merit in the arguments of the council and Mr Whittle that the report had dealt with the correct questions in the absence of clear evidence to the contrary. The council had patently failed to consider the concept of a deemed beneficial interest under Section 176 (2) of the Act and in failing to do so, had made “a serious error of law”.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Wednesday, 4 February 2009
Wanted: car spaces for TDs
NEW CAR-PARKING spaces for senior Leinster House civil servants and politicians are to be found in Dublin city centre, as the Office of Public Works concedes there is no longer an argument for keeping the “temporary” car park open on Leinster Lawn.
Officials are compiling a list of alternative parking spaces, which is to be given to the House’s Oireachtas Commission next week.
Leinster Lawn was replaced by a car park in July 1998 as a “temporary” measure to allow the construction of the wing known as Leinster House 2000.
The new parking spaces on the lawn went mainly to senior staff and a handful of politicians. Planning permission from Dublin city council required that the lawn be reinstated by 2000, but the members of the Oireachtas Commission decided to ignore the rule pending the building of a two-storey underground car park.
However, the Minister responsible for the OPW, Martin Mansergh, has let it be known he will not spend any more money than is absolutely necessary on Leinster House and has even refused to strengthen the top floor, which is consequently now empty for safety reasons.
Various suggestions that the underground car park would pay for itself by charging members of the public at weekends were put forward but rejected on security and economic grounds.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Officials are compiling a list of alternative parking spaces, which is to be given to the House’s Oireachtas Commission next week.
Leinster Lawn was replaced by a car park in July 1998 as a “temporary” measure to allow the construction of the wing known as Leinster House 2000.
The new parking spaces on the lawn went mainly to senior staff and a handful of politicians. Planning permission from Dublin city council required that the lawn be reinstated by 2000, but the members of the Oireachtas Commission decided to ignore the rule pending the building of a two-storey underground car park.
However, the Minister responsible for the OPW, Martin Mansergh, has let it be known he will not spend any more money than is absolutely necessary on Leinster House and has even refused to strengthen the top floor, which is consequently now empty for safety reasons.
Various suggestions that the underground car park would pay for itself by charging members of the public at weekends were put forward but rejected on security and economic grounds.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Ballymun centre appealed
A PLAN to redevelop Ballymun shopping centre has met with opposition from the developers of the Northside shopping centre, writes Edel Morgan .
In an appeal to An Bord Pleanála, Brian O’Farrell’s N1 Property Developments Ltd says the scale of the planned Ballymun shopping centre has been “understated” and would have an adverse impact on Northside and other shopping centres in the area.
N1 Property Developments is looking to demolish the 37-year-old Northside shopping centre in Coolock and build a 75,652sq m (814,311sq ft) shopping centre over two phases. The €1 billion redevelopment of the Northside shopping centre is before An Bord Pleanála in March. Also proposed are 1,340 residential units, a leisure centre, library, medical centre, crèche, offices and cinema.
Treasury Holdings’ plans for Ballymun shopping centre include 60,293sq m (649,000sq ft) of retail space, 27,880sq m (300,100sq ft) of offices, a nine-screen cinema, bowling alley, 2,111sq m (22,723sq ft) of civic space and a family entertainment centre.
But N1 Property Developments Ltd says the scale of the centre, in terms of traffic generation, has been downplayed, saying the scheme is “totally dependent” on Metro North and without it, local congestion would be out of control. “The Metro North project has not yet been approved by An Bord Pleanála nor has it been sanctioned by the Government to proceed to construction,” it says.
It says that the developers of Ballymun shopping centre have “grossly underestimated” the potential impact on business at other local centres, like the Omni shopping centre in Santry, Northside in Coolock and the Charlestown centre in Finglas.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
In an appeal to An Bord Pleanála, Brian O’Farrell’s N1 Property Developments Ltd says the scale of the planned Ballymun shopping centre has been “understated” and would have an adverse impact on Northside and other shopping centres in the area.
N1 Property Developments is looking to demolish the 37-year-old Northside shopping centre in Coolock and build a 75,652sq m (814,311sq ft) shopping centre over two phases. The €1 billion redevelopment of the Northside shopping centre is before An Bord Pleanála in March. Also proposed are 1,340 residential units, a leisure centre, library, medical centre, crèche, offices and cinema.
Treasury Holdings’ plans for Ballymun shopping centre include 60,293sq m (649,000sq ft) of retail space, 27,880sq m (300,100sq ft) of offices, a nine-screen cinema, bowling alley, 2,111sq m (22,723sq ft) of civic space and a family entertainment centre.
But N1 Property Developments Ltd says the scale of the centre, in terms of traffic generation, has been downplayed, saying the scheme is “totally dependent” on Metro North and without it, local congestion would be out of control. “The Metro North project has not yet been approved by An Bord Pleanála nor has it been sanctioned by the Government to proceed to construction,” it says.
It says that the developers of Ballymun shopping centre have “grossly underestimated” the potential impact on business at other local centres, like the Omni shopping centre in Santry, Northside in Coolock and the Charlestown centre in Finglas.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Retailers on retail planning
ORDINARY RETAILERS are on the verge of collapse, with the loss of 40,000 jobs in the sector predicted in the first quarter of the year alone, an Oireachtas committee has been told.
David Fitzsimons, chief executive of Retail Excellence Ireland, said many of his 8,000 members were in a very grave position.
He knew of one company with 120 leases which had stopped paying the rent, while two national retailers were on the verge of examinership.
“Legislators will have to act soon to stem the tide,” he told the Joint Committee on Enterprise, Trade and Employment yesterday.
Mr Fitzsimons said that many of his members selling homeware and furniture were “scared” of the arrival of Ikea, the giant Swedish retailer which is opening its Dublin store in July.
Retailers in these sectors had already lost 60-70 per cent of their business and were suffering a perfect storm because of rising costs and declining business.
Mr Fitzsimons argued in favour of retaining the cap on large retail outlets because it was a “good thing” for retailers and consumers.
Removing the cap, as the Competition Authority has recommended, would “suck the heart out of the high street”.
RGdata, which represents grocers, said the existing retail planning guidelines were “an Irish success story” and the retail cap had benefited consumers and the environment by preventing the development of large out-of-town stores.
Chief executive Tara Buckley criticised as undemocratic the Competition Authority proposal to restrict access to third-party appeals in the planning system.
“That is not something that the authority, itself one of the least accountable bodies in the State, should seek to restrict,” she said.
Glen Roberts of the Northern Ireland Retail Trade Association said removing the cap would be “utter madness”.
Tesco Ireland managing director Tony Keohane said he didn’t consider the cap on retail size restrictive but argued against any further restriction on shop size or location which would inhibit job creation, consumer choice and lower prices.
Calling for speedier decision-making in planning, Mr Keohane said it could take up to seven years for Tesco to develop and open a store.
He said two-thirds of Tesco stores were located in town centres and the company would continue to locate stores in town centres where sites could be found and where it did not add to traffic congestion.
Londis commercial director Peter Foley said the removal of the cap on large retail stores would “suck the life-blood out of small-town Ireland”.
In the UK, “unfettered” planning had allowed the development of large stores and thereby created “ghost towns” with no local retailers.
The only retailer to seek an increase in the cap was German discounter Aldi.
It said the cap on discount stores should be increased marginally from 1,000-1,500sq m to 1,800sq m and this should not be interpreted by planners as a binding upper limit.
Property director Denzill Balfour criticised delays in the planning process and said An Bord Pleanála rarely made decisions on appeals within its target timeframe of 18 weeks.
The grounds for making “vexatious” third-party appeals should be limited, he said.
Aldi managing director Donald Markey said the company sourced more than 40 per cent of its products from Irish suppliers.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
David Fitzsimons, chief executive of Retail Excellence Ireland, said many of his 8,000 members were in a very grave position.
He knew of one company with 120 leases which had stopped paying the rent, while two national retailers were on the verge of examinership.
“Legislators will have to act soon to stem the tide,” he told the Joint Committee on Enterprise, Trade and Employment yesterday.
Mr Fitzsimons said that many of his members selling homeware and furniture were “scared” of the arrival of Ikea, the giant Swedish retailer which is opening its Dublin store in July.
Retailers in these sectors had already lost 60-70 per cent of their business and were suffering a perfect storm because of rising costs and declining business.
Mr Fitzsimons argued in favour of retaining the cap on large retail outlets because it was a “good thing” for retailers and consumers.
Removing the cap, as the Competition Authority has recommended, would “suck the heart out of the high street”.
RGdata, which represents grocers, said the existing retail planning guidelines were “an Irish success story” and the retail cap had benefited consumers and the environment by preventing the development of large out-of-town stores.
Chief executive Tara Buckley criticised as undemocratic the Competition Authority proposal to restrict access to third-party appeals in the planning system.
“That is not something that the authority, itself one of the least accountable bodies in the State, should seek to restrict,” she said.
Glen Roberts of the Northern Ireland Retail Trade Association said removing the cap would be “utter madness”.
Tesco Ireland managing director Tony Keohane said he didn’t consider the cap on retail size restrictive but argued against any further restriction on shop size or location which would inhibit job creation, consumer choice and lower prices.
Calling for speedier decision-making in planning, Mr Keohane said it could take up to seven years for Tesco to develop and open a store.
He said two-thirds of Tesco stores were located in town centres and the company would continue to locate stores in town centres where sites could be found and where it did not add to traffic congestion.
Londis commercial director Peter Foley said the removal of the cap on large retail stores would “suck the life-blood out of small-town Ireland”.
In the UK, “unfettered” planning had allowed the development of large stores and thereby created “ghost towns” with no local retailers.
The only retailer to seek an increase in the cap was German discounter Aldi.
It said the cap on discount stores should be increased marginally from 1,000-1,500sq m to 1,800sq m and this should not be interpreted by planners as a binding upper limit.
Property director Denzill Balfour criticised delays in the planning process and said An Bord Pleanála rarely made decisions on appeals within its target timeframe of 18 weeks.
The grounds for making “vexatious” third-party appeals should be limited, he said.
Aldi managing director Donald Markey said the company sourced more than 40 per cent of its products from Irish suppliers.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Monday, 2 February 2009
Council planners face grilling on Dunne plan
DUBLIN City councillors will tonight demand an explanation from city bosses as to why most of Sean Dunne's controversial €1.5bn development in Dublin 4 was approved by planners last year, only to be thrown out by An Bord Pleanala.
Fine Gael will table an emergency motion at the monthly council meeting where officials will be asked to justify why it felt the project was appropriate for Ballsbridge and why it ignored planning guidelines in the city development plan.
Last Friday the planning appeals board held that the 10-block development on the former Jury's Berkeley Court site would amount to "gross overdevelopment".
Ballsbridge residents called for the council to be investigated over its handling of the proposal as it refused permission for the 37-storey tower and one office block, but did approve most of the €1.5bn project.
Last night Fine Gael group leader Cllr Gerry Breen said the decision questioned the professionalism of the council and management team.
Irish Independent
www.buckplanning.ie
Fine Gael will table an emergency motion at the monthly council meeting where officials will be asked to justify why it felt the project was appropriate for Ballsbridge and why it ignored planning guidelines in the city development plan.
Last Friday the planning appeals board held that the 10-block development on the former Jury's Berkeley Court site would amount to "gross overdevelopment".
Ballsbridge residents called for the council to be investigated over its handling of the proposal as it refused permission for the 37-storey tower and one office block, but did approve most of the €1.5bn project.
Last night Fine Gael group leader Cllr Gerry Breen said the decision questioned the professionalism of the council and management team.
Irish Independent
www.buckplanning.ie
Rural campaigners and council engineers at loggerheads over septic tanks
A RURAL dwellers’ campaign group is in dispute with council engineers over septic tanks.
The Kerry branch of the Irish Rural Dwellers’ Association (IRDA) insist there is an engineering solution to most problems with percolation from septic tanks.
But planning officials strongly dispute the claim.
Problems with percolation are often cited by Kerry County Council for refusing planning permission for one-off rural houses.
In a submission to a new draft county development plan, Kerry IRDA secretary Brigid O’Connor maintained there were solutions to fit “nearly all scenarios” relating to percolation.
But senior planning engineer Tom Sheehy said that was not the case, adding: “In many situations, it is not possible to dispose of treated effluent.”
The IRDA also claimed the council was citing dangerous entrances onto roads as a reason for refusing planning for houses. It called on the council to provide statistics to prove its point.
But Mr Sheehy argued such statistics would be meaningless.
The IRDA also strongly criticised what it described as the council policy of promoting the “virtual urbanisation” of Kerry, rather than strengthening and preserving rural communities.
However, council planners disputed that argument, saying the promotion of town and village development did not mean they were anti-rural planning.
Irish Examiner
www.buckplanning.ie
The Kerry branch of the Irish Rural Dwellers’ Association (IRDA) insist there is an engineering solution to most problems with percolation from septic tanks.
But planning officials strongly dispute the claim.
Problems with percolation are often cited by Kerry County Council for refusing planning permission for one-off rural houses.
In a submission to a new draft county development plan, Kerry IRDA secretary Brigid O’Connor maintained there were solutions to fit “nearly all scenarios” relating to percolation.
But senior planning engineer Tom Sheehy said that was not the case, adding: “In many situations, it is not possible to dispose of treated effluent.”
The IRDA also claimed the council was citing dangerous entrances onto roads as a reason for refusing planning for houses. It called on the council to provide statistics to prove its point.
But Mr Sheehy argued such statistics would be meaningless.
The IRDA also strongly criticised what it described as the council policy of promoting the “virtual urbanisation” of Kerry, rather than strengthening and preserving rural communities.
However, council planners disputed that argument, saying the promotion of town and village development did not mean they were anti-rural planning.
Irish Examiner
www.buckplanning.ie
High-rise plan for Dublin postponed
Dublin City Council officials have decided to postpone a high-rise plan for the capital.
The plan was due to be put out for public consultation but has now been withdrawn because of opposition from councillors.
The Maximising the City's Potential proposals would have allowed developments of over 16 storeys in five locations in the city centre: the Docklands, Connolly, Heuston and Tara Street train stations and in the Thomas Street area.
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A further ten suburban areas, including Phibsboro, Ballyfermot and the Naas Road, would have allowed buildings up to 16 storeys.
However assistant city manager Michael Stubbs said because of opposition from councillors at an information meeting, it has now been decided to put the plan back until a new development plan is started next October.
Councillors had expressed concern that the plans were being 'rushed through' despite a lack of demand resulting from the economic downturn.
Tonight Labour councillor Emer Costelloe said officials should now revise the whole plan and not come back with the same one in October.
Earlier the meeting heard that height is now being reduced in the Liberties Area Plan from a maximum of 23 storeys to 12.
Later tonight the monthly meeting will hear an emergency motion proposing an independent investigation into officials' decision to grant partial planning permission to Sean Dunne's Ballsbridge scheme, which was turned down in its entirety by An Bord Pleanála.
RTE.ie
www.buckplanning.ie
The plan was due to be put out for public consultation but has now been withdrawn because of opposition from councillors.
The Maximising the City's Potential proposals would have allowed developments of over 16 storeys in five locations in the city centre: the Docklands, Connolly, Heuston and Tara Street train stations and in the Thomas Street area.
Advertisement
A further ten suburban areas, including Phibsboro, Ballyfermot and the Naas Road, would have allowed buildings up to 16 storeys.
However assistant city manager Michael Stubbs said because of opposition from councillors at an information meeting, it has now been decided to put the plan back until a new development plan is started next October.
Councillors had expressed concern that the plans were being 'rushed through' despite a lack of demand resulting from the economic downturn.
Tonight Labour councillor Emer Costelloe said officials should now revise the whole plan and not come back with the same one in October.
Earlier the meeting heard that height is now being reduced in the Liberties Area Plan from a maximum of 23 storeys to 12.
Later tonight the monthly meeting will hear an emergency motion proposing an independent investigation into officials' decision to grant partial planning permission to Sean Dunne's Ballsbridge scheme, which was turned down in its entirety by An Bord Pleanála.
RTE.ie
www.buckplanning.ie
Dunne blames 'snobs' for blocking Ballsbridge scheme
Property developer Seán Dunne says a "snobbish element" in Ballsbridge opposed his high-rise scheme for the Dublin 4 site.
An Bord Pleanála last week refused permission for Mr Dunne's plan to build a €1.5 billion residential, retail and office development, including a 37-storey tower, on the site of the former Jurys and Berkeley Court hotels which he bought for €450 million.
"At the oral appeal a lot of people and some of the residents referred to themselves as 'people of means'. So I think there is a snobbish element with Ballsbridge, about Ballsbridge. I actually live in Ballsbridge, it is full of very nice people but there are an element of people who think that they speak for Ireland when they speak for Ballsbridge," he said.
Speaking on the Lunchtime with Eamon Keane show on Newstalk, Mr Dunne said the planning process "brought out I suppose to a certain extent the worst of the local residents and councillors working in tandem and fighting against me on the project".
Asked if he was still solvent, Mr Dunne said: "Sean Dunne as an individual is 100 per cent solvent". However, he said "there are not many companies in Ireland today that are probably solvent and that's just a reality of life".
Mr Dunne denied that the project had been motivated by his own ego. "It was never ego. I have a professional pride in everything I do. Development is not about greed, it's about building a country, building an economy. Somebody's got to do it. I was the man who decided to buy this site. I had a vision for it," he said.
He claimed the construction of the scheme would have created 970 on-site jobs and about the same number off-site for seven years. When the project was finished, 5,400 people would have jobs there, he said. It would have provided €400m to the Dublin economy on an annual basis, "equivalent to about 10 Ireland-England rugby internationals".
He added: "A lot of people have said to me, and a lot of friends have said to me, if an American or a foreign multinational company was coming to Dublin and relocating anywhere including Ballsbridge and creating 5,400 full time jobs, I think it's fair to say there would be a queue of Mercedes back from D4 Hotels all the way back to Government Buildings."
Mr Dunne was also critical of Fine Gael TD for Dublin South East, Lucinda Creighton, who, according to Mr Keane, had described An Bord Pleanála's ruling as "a great day for Ireland".
"If that's her opinion, it's a sad reflection on Fine Gael as a party. I would hope it's not the policy of the leader of Fine Gael but if it is they might come out and confirm it."
Mr Dunne said he was "really shocked" at the An Bord Pleanála ruling and complained of a lack of leadership coming from the organisation. He said his reference to creating a "Knightsbridge" in Dublin had been misunderstood. He had wanted to recreate the ambience rather than the architecture of Knightsbridge.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
An Bord Pleanála last week refused permission for Mr Dunne's plan to build a €1.5 billion residential, retail and office development, including a 37-storey tower, on the site of the former Jurys and Berkeley Court hotels which he bought for €450 million.
"At the oral appeal a lot of people and some of the residents referred to themselves as 'people of means'. So I think there is a snobbish element with Ballsbridge, about Ballsbridge. I actually live in Ballsbridge, it is full of very nice people but there are an element of people who think that they speak for Ireland when they speak for Ballsbridge," he said.
Speaking on the Lunchtime with Eamon Keane show on Newstalk, Mr Dunne said the planning process "brought out I suppose to a certain extent the worst of the local residents and councillors working in tandem and fighting against me on the project".
Asked if he was still solvent, Mr Dunne said: "Sean Dunne as an individual is 100 per cent solvent". However, he said "there are not many companies in Ireland today that are probably solvent and that's just a reality of life".
Mr Dunne denied that the project had been motivated by his own ego. "It was never ego. I have a professional pride in everything I do. Development is not about greed, it's about building a country, building an economy. Somebody's got to do it. I was the man who decided to buy this site. I had a vision for it," he said.
He claimed the construction of the scheme would have created 970 on-site jobs and about the same number off-site for seven years. When the project was finished, 5,400 people would have jobs there, he said. It would have provided €400m to the Dublin economy on an annual basis, "equivalent to about 10 Ireland-England rugby internationals".
He added: "A lot of people have said to me, and a lot of friends have said to me, if an American or a foreign multinational company was coming to Dublin and relocating anywhere including Ballsbridge and creating 5,400 full time jobs, I think it's fair to say there would be a queue of Mercedes back from D4 Hotels all the way back to Government Buildings."
Mr Dunne was also critical of Fine Gael TD for Dublin South East, Lucinda Creighton, who, according to Mr Keane, had described An Bord Pleanála's ruling as "a great day for Ireland".
"If that's her opinion, it's a sad reflection on Fine Gael as a party. I would hope it's not the policy of the leader of Fine Gael but if it is they might come out and confirm it."
Mr Dunne said he was "really shocked" at the An Bord Pleanála ruling and complained of a lack of leadership coming from the organisation. He said his reference to creating a "Knightsbridge" in Dublin had been misunderstood. He had wanted to recreate the ambience rather than the architecture of Knightsbridge.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
€600m for regional road projects announced
More than €600 million in funding is to be made available this year for the maintenance and improvement of the State’s regional and local roads network.
The funding is part of the €4.3 billion investment in regional and local roads, pledged under the National Development Plan 2007 – 2013.
More than half of this year’s allocation or €310 million will go towards for the restoration of pavements along some 2,540 kilometres of roads across the State.
The second major tranche of the 2009 allocation will see €182 million invested in 316 specific improvement projects, including new roads and bridges and several road and bridge upgrades.
Announcing details of the funding today, Minister for Transport Noel Dempsey said 94 per cent of all Irish roads are regional or local and carry about 60 per cent of all traffic and 43 per cent of all goods traffic.
“It is, therefore, imperative that we maintain and, where necessary, improve the network,” Mr Dempsey said.
Some €8.6 million will be spent at hundreds of accident blackspots across the State.
“Safety is central to all road improvement and maintenance work and is a key plank of the road investment programme," Mr Dempsey said.
“As in previous years, I am making specific allocations this year to tackle accident blackspots. This year, specific safety measures will be put in place at over 300 locations."
A total of €15 million has been set aside for the Local Improvements Scheme, which provides grants to county councils for carrying out of road works on private roads.
The scheme is aimed at improving access for people in isolated and depopulated areas.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
The funding is part of the €4.3 billion investment in regional and local roads, pledged under the National Development Plan 2007 – 2013.
More than half of this year’s allocation or €310 million will go towards for the restoration of pavements along some 2,540 kilometres of roads across the State.
The second major tranche of the 2009 allocation will see €182 million invested in 316 specific improvement projects, including new roads and bridges and several road and bridge upgrades.
Announcing details of the funding today, Minister for Transport Noel Dempsey said 94 per cent of all Irish roads are regional or local and carry about 60 per cent of all traffic and 43 per cent of all goods traffic.
“It is, therefore, imperative that we maintain and, where necessary, improve the network,” Mr Dempsey said.
Some €8.6 million will be spent at hundreds of accident blackspots across the State.
“Safety is central to all road improvement and maintenance work and is a key plank of the road investment programme," Mr Dempsey said.
“As in previous years, I am making specific allocations this year to tackle accident blackspots. This year, specific safety measures will be put in place at over 300 locations."
A total of €15 million has been set aside for the Local Improvements Scheme, which provides grants to county councils for carrying out of road works on private roads.
The scheme is aimed at improving access for people in isolated and depopulated areas.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Local objections to autism centre
PLANS BY the Irish Society for Autism to build a residential centre for school-leavers with autism near Tralee, Co Kerry, have been appealed to An Bord Pleanála by local residents.
The Tralee centre would be the fifth residential unit in the country, and the chief executive of the society has said many more such centres would be needed to cater for the dramatic increase in the number of children with autism over the past decade.
The proposal is to renovate a house in a rural area near Ballyseedy, and construct selfcontained apartments and a day-activity centre around a central courtyard. These had been approved by Kerry County Council.
The idea is to encourage independent living by persons with autism. The centre would have a permanent staff of 18 and eight part-time workers for the workshops and care of the residents, the society said in its application.
Residents along the private road, while welcoming the development in principle, have complained of a “total lack of consultation with the neighbours” by the Irish Society for Autism.
They have asked An Bord Pleanála to set aside the permission because of the increase in traffic and concerns about effluent disposal, which they say should have been addressed by the council.
Irish Society for Autism chief executive Pat Matthews said yesterday he was confident the difficulties in Tralee were not insurmountable. He could sympathise with the residents’ anxieties about the road and effluent and would be able to reassure them.
He said the population of children with autism had increased dramatically in the past decade and many more such centres would be needed. It was estimated one child in every 160 in Ireland now had the condition.
“The population is growing significantly, and we are going to need a significant number of centres.”
Mr Matthews said the €2 million project would be the fifth residential centre provided nationally by the society, and Kerry’s first.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
The Tralee centre would be the fifth residential unit in the country, and the chief executive of the society has said many more such centres would be needed to cater for the dramatic increase in the number of children with autism over the past decade.
The proposal is to renovate a house in a rural area near Ballyseedy, and construct selfcontained apartments and a day-activity centre around a central courtyard. These had been approved by Kerry County Council.
The idea is to encourage independent living by persons with autism. The centre would have a permanent staff of 18 and eight part-time workers for the workshops and care of the residents, the society said in its application.
Residents along the private road, while welcoming the development in principle, have complained of a “total lack of consultation with the neighbours” by the Irish Society for Autism.
They have asked An Bord Pleanála to set aside the permission because of the increase in traffic and concerns about effluent disposal, which they say should have been addressed by the council.
Irish Society for Autism chief executive Pat Matthews said yesterday he was confident the difficulties in Tralee were not insurmountable. He could sympathise with the residents’ anxieties about the road and effluent and would be able to reassure them.
He said the population of children with autism had increased dramatically in the past decade and many more such centres would be needed. It was estimated one child in every 160 in Ireland now had the condition.
“The population is growing significantly, and we are going to need a significant number of centres.”
Mr Matthews said the €2 million project would be the fifth residential centre provided nationally by the society, and Kerry’s first.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Poolbeg Planning scheme
THE POOLBEG Peninsula Planning Scheme is being introduced under the €4.5 billion masterplan for the further expansion of the docklands published by the Dublin Docklands Development Development Authority last year.
The planning scheme allows the authority to grant permission for developments, bypassing the normal planning process of the local authority planning system.
Developers must however comply with the planning scheme for the area which dictates building heights, uses, densities and standards in relation to apartment sizes.
The scheme also specifies urban design principals, such as the width of roads in the development and the amount of recreational space. It also stipulates environmental and energy standards.
The development will initially be served by bus only, but the authority says it will be a high frequency service running in its own corridor separate from the road. Ferry or “water taxi” services and a Luas line extending from the Point Village are eventually planned. However, the Luas extension is not part of the Government’s Transport 21 plans.
Submissions can be made on the plan until April 6th. Please contact bps on 0404-66060.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Olivia Kelly
The planning scheme allows the authority to grant permission for developments, bypassing the normal planning process of the local authority planning system.
Developers must however comply with the planning scheme for the area which dictates building heights, uses, densities and standards in relation to apartment sizes.
The scheme also specifies urban design principals, such as the width of roads in the development and the amount of recreational space. It also stipulates environmental and energy standards.
The development will initially be served by bus only, but the authority says it will be a high frequency service running in its own corridor separate from the road. Ferry or “water taxi” services and a Luas line extending from the Point Village are eventually planned. However, the Luas extension is not part of the Government’s Transport 21 plans.
Submissions can be made on the plan until April 6th. Please contact bps on 0404-66060.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Olivia Kelly
Plan for residential and commercial development on Poolbeg peninsula
PLANS FOR a new urban quarter on the Poolbeg peninsula, with homes for 10,000 people and office space to accommodate 16,000 workers, are being released for public consultation today by the Dublin Docklands Development Authority.
The plans, once they are ratified by the Minister for the Environment, will allow for the development of more than 100 acres of former industrial lands including the 25-acre Irish Glass Bottle site, the neighbouring 12-acre Fabrizia site and the former Pigeon House power station, dock and hotel.
The development area will encircle the Ringsend sewage-treatment plant and Ireland’s first municipal waste incinerator due to be built by Dublin City Council.
Approval to create a special docklands planning scheme for the Poolbeg peninsula was granted to the docklands authority by the Government in mid-2007.
The special planning schemes, also known as Section 25 schemes, give power to the docklands authority to grant permission for developments.
This means that a developer does not have to go through the normal process of applying to the local authority, and a possible appeal to Bord Pleanála, as long as the docklands authority is satisfied that the development complies with the planning scheme.
The Poolbeg planning scheme will be open for public consultation until April, after which it will go to the Minister for the Environment for final ratification.
The authority expects to receive the first applications under the scheme by the end of this year. It envisages that the peninsula will be developed over a 10- to 15-year period in two phases.
The first phase will see the development of around 450,000 sq m.
The second phase, the development of the remaining 350,000 sq m, will only be permitted after a Luas line has been extended to the area.
The planning scheme has divided the area into four zones.
The first, at the beginning of the peninsula, incorporates the glass bottle and Fabrizia lands.
The glass bottle site was bought for €412 million in 2006 by a consortium headed by developer Bernard McNamara, but the authority has invested a 26 per cent stake.
Fabrizia Developments is owned by Liam Carroll, who was refused permission by Bord Pleanála in 2007 to develop the land, having been granted permission by Dublin City Council in 2006.
This first zone will be a mixed-use residential, commercial and retail development.
The second zone is a small strip of land to the north of this, which will be used for commercial development only in order to form a boundary between the new development and the port lands.
The third zone is another large tract of land, owned by Dublin Port and currently used mainly for concrete production, facing out on to the southern shore of the peninsula towards Sandymount.
The north of this land will have some commercial development, but the south will be primarily residential facing out on to the bay.
The final zone, to the north of the sewage-treatment plant around Pigeon House Dock, is owned by the city council and Dublin Port. The farthest zone from the city, this area is likely to be the last developed.
The area will have commercial and residential development, but with several protected structures on the land, including the former power station and hotel, it will also be the site for arts and cultural developments.
Although the scheme will involve high densities it will be relatively low-rise.
Most of the residential accommodation, which accounts for 60-70 per cent of the land use, will be six to seven storeys, while the maximum heights will be 15 storeys. Several areas, particularly at the south shore, will be less than three storeys.
The city council had spent several years developing a framework plan for Poolbeg. However, this plan was never ratified and will now be superseded by the docklands plan.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
The plans, once they are ratified by the Minister for the Environment, will allow for the development of more than 100 acres of former industrial lands including the 25-acre Irish Glass Bottle site, the neighbouring 12-acre Fabrizia site and the former Pigeon House power station, dock and hotel.
The development area will encircle the Ringsend sewage-treatment plant and Ireland’s first municipal waste incinerator due to be built by Dublin City Council.
Approval to create a special docklands planning scheme for the Poolbeg peninsula was granted to the docklands authority by the Government in mid-2007.
The special planning schemes, also known as Section 25 schemes, give power to the docklands authority to grant permission for developments.
This means that a developer does not have to go through the normal process of applying to the local authority, and a possible appeal to Bord Pleanála, as long as the docklands authority is satisfied that the development complies with the planning scheme.
The Poolbeg planning scheme will be open for public consultation until April, after which it will go to the Minister for the Environment for final ratification.
The authority expects to receive the first applications under the scheme by the end of this year. It envisages that the peninsula will be developed over a 10- to 15-year period in two phases.
The first phase will see the development of around 450,000 sq m.
The second phase, the development of the remaining 350,000 sq m, will only be permitted after a Luas line has been extended to the area.
The planning scheme has divided the area into four zones.
The first, at the beginning of the peninsula, incorporates the glass bottle and Fabrizia lands.
The glass bottle site was bought for €412 million in 2006 by a consortium headed by developer Bernard McNamara, but the authority has invested a 26 per cent stake.
Fabrizia Developments is owned by Liam Carroll, who was refused permission by Bord Pleanála in 2007 to develop the land, having been granted permission by Dublin City Council in 2006.
This first zone will be a mixed-use residential, commercial and retail development.
The second zone is a small strip of land to the north of this, which will be used for commercial development only in order to form a boundary between the new development and the port lands.
The third zone is another large tract of land, owned by Dublin Port and currently used mainly for concrete production, facing out on to the southern shore of the peninsula towards Sandymount.
The north of this land will have some commercial development, but the south will be primarily residential facing out on to the bay.
The final zone, to the north of the sewage-treatment plant around Pigeon House Dock, is owned by the city council and Dublin Port. The farthest zone from the city, this area is likely to be the last developed.
The area will have commercial and residential development, but with several protected structures on the land, including the former power station and hotel, it will also be the site for arts and cultural developments.
Although the scheme will involve high densities it will be relatively low-rise.
Most of the residential accommodation, which accounts for 60-70 per cent of the land use, will be six to seven storeys, while the maximum heights will be 15 storeys. Several areas, particularly at the south shore, will be less than three storeys.
The city council had spent several years developing a framework plan for Poolbeg. However, this plan was never ratified and will now be superseded by the docklands plan.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Sunday, 1 February 2009
Value of Dunne’s Ballsbridge site may now be less than €100 million
The Jury’s Doyle hotel site in Ballsbridge in Dublin, which property developer Sean Dunne assembled at a cost of €379 million, is now worth less than €100 million, auctioneers have estimated.
Last Friday, Dunne’s company, Mountbrook Homes, was refused planning permission for a high-rise development on the site, which would have included a 37-storey tower. In a statement, the firm said it was ‘‘very disappointed’’ with the decision by An Bord Pleanala and would consider its ruling before submitting a revised plan for the site.
Ulster Bank provided Dunne with most of the financing for the site, believed to be in the region of €270 million, but it is understood the lender syndicated around half of this to other banks. However, experienced auctioneers in some of the country’s largest estate agents, said that the site was now worth between €80 million and €100 million, though exact valuations are difficult in today’s market.
‘‘It is all about the exit values,” said one senior auctioneer, who did not wish to be named. ‘‘If you take the view that new homes [prices] are now back 40 per cent on what they were two years ago, and are predicted to drop another 10 per cent in the next six to nine months, that is a 50 per cent drop on any investment.
Land values drop further than housing unit values, so these are now back 70 to 75 per cent in this case.” Selling the site would also be very difficult in the current environment, according to Duncan Lyster, director of Irish and international investment at Lisney.
‘‘The number of buyers for a site like that - which is probably the best site in Dublin - would be very few. In terms of development of it . . . the climate for raising money is as bad as it’s ever been,” he said.
The Sunday Business Post understands that a wealthy Irish businessman expressed an interest in the site six months ago, but did not proceed because of the poor economic environment and global credit crunch. Informed sources also said that the Doyle family of hoteliers, who sold Dunne the site, ‘‘have no intention’’ of buying the site back.
Sunday Business Post
www.buckplanning.ie
Last Friday, Dunne’s company, Mountbrook Homes, was refused planning permission for a high-rise development on the site, which would have included a 37-storey tower. In a statement, the firm said it was ‘‘very disappointed’’ with the decision by An Bord Pleanala and would consider its ruling before submitting a revised plan for the site.
Ulster Bank provided Dunne with most of the financing for the site, believed to be in the region of €270 million, but it is understood the lender syndicated around half of this to other banks. However, experienced auctioneers in some of the country’s largest estate agents, said that the site was now worth between €80 million and €100 million, though exact valuations are difficult in today’s market.
‘‘It is all about the exit values,” said one senior auctioneer, who did not wish to be named. ‘‘If you take the view that new homes [prices] are now back 40 per cent on what they were two years ago, and are predicted to drop another 10 per cent in the next six to nine months, that is a 50 per cent drop on any investment.
Land values drop further than housing unit values, so these are now back 70 to 75 per cent in this case.” Selling the site would also be very difficult in the current environment, according to Duncan Lyster, director of Irish and international investment at Lisney.
‘‘The number of buyers for a site like that - which is probably the best site in Dublin - would be very few. In terms of development of it . . . the climate for raising money is as bad as it’s ever been,” he said.
The Sunday Business Post understands that a wealthy Irish businessman expressed an interest in the site six months ago, but did not proceed because of the poor economic environment and global credit crunch. Informed sources also said that the Doyle family of hoteliers, who sold Dunne the site, ‘‘have no intention’’ of buying the site back.
Sunday Business Post
www.buckplanning.ie
KBC Ireland seizes prime Dun Laoghaire site
A prime Dublin site controlled by Richard Murphy, the owner of DVD retailer Chartbusters, has been seized by KBC Ireland. The bank, formerly IIB Bank, took control of the site in Dun Laoghaire last week in an effort to secure a multi-million loan it had advanced to Murphy. The bank appointed Grant Thornton insolvency partner Michael McAteer as receiver over the assets of BW Properties, which is controlled by Murphy and has a 25year leasehold interest on the site. The site is on Rochestown Avenue and was valued at €8 million in 2005. It is currently leased to Joe Duffy Motors.
The car dealership is not affected by the receivership and continues to trade from the premises. BW Properties is ultimately owned by a company Lorstan, which is also controlled by Murphy. Lorstan has freehold title to the site, which it leases to BW Properties.
However, Lorstan has been dissolved, prompting KBC to close in on its trading subsidiary. KBC has charges registered against the assets of both companies, according to filings with the Companies Registration Office. Chartbusters, which has 37 outlets around the country, recently went into examinership after amassing debts of about €20 million.
The examiner, Dublin accountant Neil Hughes, will brief staff in the coming days about his plans for the business. It is expected that more than ten outlets will be shut down immediately, as Hughes seeks to curb costs and turn around the business.
Sunday Business Post
www.buckplanning.ie
The car dealership is not affected by the receivership and continues to trade from the premises. BW Properties is ultimately owned by a company Lorstan, which is also controlled by Murphy. Lorstan has freehold title to the site, which it leases to BW Properties.
However, Lorstan has been dissolved, prompting KBC to close in on its trading subsidiary. KBC has charges registered against the assets of both companies, according to filings with the Companies Registration Office. Chartbusters, which has 37 outlets around the country, recently went into examinership after amassing debts of about €20 million.
The examiner, Dublin accountant Neil Hughes, will brief staff in the coming days about his plans for the business. It is expected that more than ten outlets will be shut down immediately, as Hughes seeks to curb costs and turn around the business.
Sunday Business Post
www.buckplanning.ie
Developers sitting on the dock of the bay
The property crash has hit plans for the development of Dublin's docklands but landowners are taking a long-term view, seeking higher buildings and looking to develop sites that previously had industrial uses.
The multi-billion euro transport infrastructure and property group Peel Holdings may develop a commercial scheme at the South Quays container terminal in Poolbeg in Dublin. The company, which says it owns £7bn of assets, holds a long-term lease from Dublin Port on the 37.26 acre site via subsidiary MTL.
Peel has told the Dublin Docklands Development Authority (DDDA) that the south port lo-lo terminal may be "co-located in the short to medium term" through either land reclamation or the "rationalisation of existing facilities at the north docks".
Peel is controlled by the Whittaker family and its assets include 14,000 acres of land, the Trafford Centre shopping complex in Manchester, a number of airports including John Lennon Airport in Liverpool and several ports in Britain. It is also involved in the development of MediaCity UK in Salford, to which the BBC is relocating five departments, and has other assets in Bermuda, the Bahamas and Spain.
Peel, via a submission to the Dublin Regional Authority on the future of Dublin Bay, has previously signalled its support for the relocation of all of Dublin Port's activities, with the exception of ferry and cruise liner facilities, outside of the city. The port lands could then be developed for residential, commercial and amenity purposes.
Details of Peel's plans for the future of the terminal are included in submissions made to the DDDA in relation to its new masterplan, which will guide future development in the area until 2013. Despite its submission, Peel's site remains partially zoned for the "protection and creation of industrial uses" with the rest of the site zoned for "social, economic and physical development", which is basically housing and enterprise uses.
Cosgrave Property Developments meanwhile wanted the docklands authority to "include and identify previously developed sites which may be suitable for further intensification and redevelopment", specifically the "Ulster Bank headquarters building cluster" on George's Quay and its nearby George's Court development. It also requested "a revised dockland wide height policy which outlines a clear framework for future developments".
The triangular former graving docks site at the entrance to Grand Canal Dock has had additional land zoned for development. The site is controlled by the DDDA and Waterways Ireland and they have already sought a developer and design team to design, construct and finance a mixed-use development on the site of just under three acres.
At nearby Boland's Mill, Seán Kelly's Benton Property Holding says the site is appropriate "to a strong architectural intervention" and said that going forward the "authority should consider site densification on a site by site basis".
In a separate submission from Benton and Treasury Holdings, the developers lobbied for a 20-80 mix between housing and commercial development in the area. Treasury's former headquarters, known as The Warehouse, is next to Boland's Mill.
On the other side of Grand Canal Quay, the Jordan family, Trinity College and Connaughton are planning to redevelop land that is also bounded by Pearse Street, Macken Street and the Esat building. Trinity plans to redevelop its site as a "technology transfer hub" and has appointed a design team to that effect.
Seán Dunne's Mountbrook also made submissions in relation to a 0.6 acre site it owns on City Quay which is said would be suitable for at least a 50-metre high building.
Iarnród Éireann said that some of the land proposed for zoning by the authority was premature pending the construction of the interconnector. It also said a triangular site in the IFSC bounded by three rail lines and should not be zoned for recreational amenity as "there is a need to minimise and strictly control public access to the area".
Tesco said that retail development in the area has not kept pace with residential development and said it "welcomes the provision of a district centre for the south docks".
In the north docklands, meanwhile, Liam Carroll's Zoe Group campaigned against the Liffey Island scheme which will see the DDDA allow buildings to be developed on stilts in the Liffey. It said that extending development into the river "is inherently inconsistent with many of the draft plan objectives and policies" and "conflicts with the strategic amenity of the Liffey river corridor".
Carroll also lobbied against parking restrictions in the area saying that the limits were "an impediment to attracting high order financial institutions to Docklands, and in such instances where institutions are globally footloose, a provision should be incorporated of one space per 100 metres of office use". He also said the 40% residential and 60% commercial development restrictions were "too rigid" and "localised". Carroll's Anglo Irish Bank headquarters building, which is partially completed, did not comply with that restriction, the High Court found.
Pierse Contracting has had the former Cahill Printers site zoned for "social, economic and physical development or rejuvenation" which will be mainly residential and enterprise.
The ESB meanwhile said it did not support the introduction of a public walkway along the South Ball Wall, saying it was not feasible in health and safety terms. For South Lotts Road, it lobbied for the continued residential zoning of 4.5 acres next to its Sportsco land. On East Wall Road, the board owns 2.6 acres which is bounded to the north by the Port Tunnel and applied to have it rezoned as it was made up of "disused and dilapidated buildings". The ESB?also said it would support the idea of including the land in any extension of the North Lotts planning scheme.
In the IFSC itself, Cosgrave Property Developments wants to redevelop its six storey Exchange Place building which it says is "appropriate for intensification".
ABN Amro, Irish Life & Permanent, Cartmel Partnership, Roadbridge's Pat Mulcair and Robert 'Pino' Harris also lobbied for higher density at the 1.88 acre Custom House Plaza which is next to the train station.
It has previously been reported that Treasury Holdings' REO and Spencer Dock Development Company had warned of flaws in the preparation of the masterplan. It said references to Dublin Port should be deleted and said it "reserved the right to instigate legal proceedings". It said it wants to develop a retail centre at Spencer Dock and said the district centre planned for Poolbeg by the DDDA would be "inappropriate".
Sunday Tribune
www.buckplanning.ie
The multi-billion euro transport infrastructure and property group Peel Holdings may develop a commercial scheme at the South Quays container terminal in Poolbeg in Dublin. The company, which says it owns £7bn of assets, holds a long-term lease from Dublin Port on the 37.26 acre site via subsidiary MTL.
Peel has told the Dublin Docklands Development Authority (DDDA) that the south port lo-lo terminal may be "co-located in the short to medium term" through either land reclamation or the "rationalisation of existing facilities at the north docks".
Peel is controlled by the Whittaker family and its assets include 14,000 acres of land, the Trafford Centre shopping complex in Manchester, a number of airports including John Lennon Airport in Liverpool and several ports in Britain. It is also involved in the development of MediaCity UK in Salford, to which the BBC is relocating five departments, and has other assets in Bermuda, the Bahamas and Spain.
Peel, via a submission to the Dublin Regional Authority on the future of Dublin Bay, has previously signalled its support for the relocation of all of Dublin Port's activities, with the exception of ferry and cruise liner facilities, outside of the city. The port lands could then be developed for residential, commercial and amenity purposes.
Details of Peel's plans for the future of the terminal are included in submissions made to the DDDA in relation to its new masterplan, which will guide future development in the area until 2013. Despite its submission, Peel's site remains partially zoned for the "protection and creation of industrial uses" with the rest of the site zoned for "social, economic and physical development", which is basically housing and enterprise uses.
Cosgrave Property Developments meanwhile wanted the docklands authority to "include and identify previously developed sites which may be suitable for further intensification and redevelopment", specifically the "Ulster Bank headquarters building cluster" on George's Quay and its nearby George's Court development. It also requested "a revised dockland wide height policy which outlines a clear framework for future developments".
The triangular former graving docks site at the entrance to Grand Canal Dock has had additional land zoned for development. The site is controlled by the DDDA and Waterways Ireland and they have already sought a developer and design team to design, construct and finance a mixed-use development on the site of just under three acres.
At nearby Boland's Mill, Seán Kelly's Benton Property Holding says the site is appropriate "to a strong architectural intervention" and said that going forward the "authority should consider site densification on a site by site basis".
In a separate submission from Benton and Treasury Holdings, the developers lobbied for a 20-80 mix between housing and commercial development in the area. Treasury's former headquarters, known as The Warehouse, is next to Boland's Mill.
On the other side of Grand Canal Quay, the Jordan family, Trinity College and Connaughton are planning to redevelop land that is also bounded by Pearse Street, Macken Street and the Esat building. Trinity plans to redevelop its site as a "technology transfer hub" and has appointed a design team to that effect.
Seán Dunne's Mountbrook also made submissions in relation to a 0.6 acre site it owns on City Quay which is said would be suitable for at least a 50-metre high building.
Iarnród Éireann said that some of the land proposed for zoning by the authority was premature pending the construction of the interconnector. It also said a triangular site in the IFSC bounded by three rail lines and should not be zoned for recreational amenity as "there is a need to minimise and strictly control public access to the area".
Tesco said that retail development in the area has not kept pace with residential development and said it "welcomes the provision of a district centre for the south docks".
In the north docklands, meanwhile, Liam Carroll's Zoe Group campaigned against the Liffey Island scheme which will see the DDDA allow buildings to be developed on stilts in the Liffey. It said that extending development into the river "is inherently inconsistent with many of the draft plan objectives and policies" and "conflicts with the strategic amenity of the Liffey river corridor".
Carroll also lobbied against parking restrictions in the area saying that the limits were "an impediment to attracting high order financial institutions to Docklands, and in such instances where institutions are globally footloose, a provision should be incorporated of one space per 100 metres of office use". He also said the 40% residential and 60% commercial development restrictions were "too rigid" and "localised". Carroll's Anglo Irish Bank headquarters building, which is partially completed, did not comply with that restriction, the High Court found.
Pierse Contracting has had the former Cahill Printers site zoned for "social, economic and physical development or rejuvenation" which will be mainly residential and enterprise.
The ESB meanwhile said it did not support the introduction of a public walkway along the South Ball Wall, saying it was not feasible in health and safety terms. For South Lotts Road, it lobbied for the continued residential zoning of 4.5 acres next to its Sportsco land. On East Wall Road, the board owns 2.6 acres which is bounded to the north by the Port Tunnel and applied to have it rezoned as it was made up of "disused and dilapidated buildings". The ESB?also said it would support the idea of including the land in any extension of the North Lotts planning scheme.
In the IFSC itself, Cosgrave Property Developments wants to redevelop its six storey Exchange Place building which it says is "appropriate for intensification".
ABN Amro, Irish Life & Permanent, Cartmel Partnership, Roadbridge's Pat Mulcair and Robert 'Pino' Harris also lobbied for higher density at the 1.88 acre Custom House Plaza which is next to the train station.
It has previously been reported that Treasury Holdings' REO and Spencer Dock Development Company had warned of flaws in the preparation of the masterplan. It said references to Dublin Port should be deleted and said it "reserved the right to instigate legal proceedings". It said it wants to develop a retail centre at Spencer Dock and said the district centre planned for Poolbeg by the DDDA would be "inappropriate".
Sunday Tribune
www.buckplanning.ie
Superquinn denies plans for former AIB site in Dublin 4
Struggling retailer Superquinn has denied it is planning to open its first ever store in Dublin 4.
The retailer, which recently announced it was laying off 400 staff and closing its Dundalk store, owns a stake in a company called Encap Properties, according to Companies Office documents, which is planning to redevelop the former AIB unit at Donnybrook House on Donnybrook Road into a shop, gym, restaurant and offices. However, a spokesman for the retailer denied it had a financial interest in the project.
Companies Office documents show that Encap is mainly owned by DavidCourtney and Padraig Breen, both of whom are directors of a number of Superquinn companies.
Courtney was one of the original investors in Select Retail Holdings, which bought Superquinn from the Quinn family.
A small stake in Encap is owned by a company called Melnar, which in turn is owned by Superquinn, the documents show, but Superquinn said it has no direct interest.
Donnybrook House was sold by AIB in 2006 as part of its sale and leaseback programme.
Encap Properties has applied to change the existing bank hall into retail use.
Sunday Tribune
www.buckplanning.ie
The retailer, which recently announced it was laying off 400 staff and closing its Dundalk store, owns a stake in a company called Encap Properties, according to Companies Office documents, which is planning to redevelop the former AIB unit at Donnybrook House on Donnybrook Road into a shop, gym, restaurant and offices. However, a spokesman for the retailer denied it had a financial interest in the project.
Companies Office documents show that Encap is mainly owned by DavidCourtney and Padraig Breen, both of whom are directors of a number of Superquinn companies.
Courtney was one of the original investors in Select Retail Holdings, which bought Superquinn from the Quinn family.
A small stake in Encap is owned by a company called Melnar, which in turn is owned by Superquinn, the documents show, but Superquinn said it has no direct interest.
Donnybrook House was sold by AIB in 2006 as part of its sale and leaseback programme.
Encap Properties has applied to change the existing bank hall into retail use.
Sunday Tribune
www.buckplanning.ie
Grehan plan still alive as Dunne's Dublin 4 tower fails
An Bord Pleanála has sought further information from Ray Grehan's Glenkerrin Group on its plans for the €171m Ballsbridge site it owns next to Sean Dunne's Jurys Berkeley Court site, which was refused planning permission last week.
In a decision similar to that for Arnotts' Northern Quarter scheme, the board is believed to have imposed a number of restrictions on Grehan's plans which will provide for an average height of about nine storeys.
Grehan's company Kintene has sought planning for 109 residential units, office, retail, cafe, and cultural facilities in buildings of up to 15 storeys on the site of the former veterinary college, which is currently used as a car park. A decision is unlikely to be made on the application until much later this year.
Sean Dunne's application for the Jurys Berkeley Court site was roundly rejected by the board last week.
The board used significantly stronger language than that used by the planner who recommended the application be refused.
The inspector said that the scheme is "not without merit" but that the "scale, mass, bulk and height of the scheme is excessive". He said the 37-storey tower was "of quality design" and that "the creation of new streets and plazas, and the mix of uses, are all to be welcomed". He recommended rejection on the grounds that the proposal represented "over-development and over-intensification of use on the site" and that the quantum of retail and offices proposed "would materially contravene" the land zoning.
By contrast, the board said the proposal "would constitute gross over-development and over-intensification", would "injure the amenities of the area", contained "excessive" retail proposals and contravenes the site's zoning through the offices proposal.
It also said it was "not satisfied" that the proposed development "would bring about a high-quality environment for future occupants" and was therefore contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.
Dunne has spent €15m on professional fees in relation to the proposed development. He said he will submit a new application that takes into account the fact that the site is predominantly zoned for residential use.
Dunne bought the seven-acre Jurys Berkeley Court site for just under €380m but land values have fallen significantly since then. In the same area, he also owns land at AIB Bankcentre and Hume House.
Other assets include the Donnybrook Mall; land in Greystones, Co Wicklow; and sites in the north and south docklands of Dublin.
Sunday Tribune
www.buckplanning.ie
In a decision similar to that for Arnotts' Northern Quarter scheme, the board is believed to have imposed a number of restrictions on Grehan's plans which will provide for an average height of about nine storeys.
Grehan's company Kintene has sought planning for 109 residential units, office, retail, cafe, and cultural facilities in buildings of up to 15 storeys on the site of the former veterinary college, which is currently used as a car park. A decision is unlikely to be made on the application until much later this year.
Sean Dunne's application for the Jurys Berkeley Court site was roundly rejected by the board last week.
The board used significantly stronger language than that used by the planner who recommended the application be refused.
The inspector said that the scheme is "not without merit" but that the "scale, mass, bulk and height of the scheme is excessive". He said the 37-storey tower was "of quality design" and that "the creation of new streets and plazas, and the mix of uses, are all to be welcomed". He recommended rejection on the grounds that the proposal represented "over-development and over-intensification of use on the site" and that the quantum of retail and offices proposed "would materially contravene" the land zoning.
By contrast, the board said the proposal "would constitute gross over-development and over-intensification", would "injure the amenities of the area", contained "excessive" retail proposals and contravenes the site's zoning through the offices proposal.
It also said it was "not satisfied" that the proposed development "would bring about a high-quality environment for future occupants" and was therefore contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.
Dunne has spent €15m on professional fees in relation to the proposed development. He said he will submit a new application that takes into account the fact that the site is predominantly zoned for residential use.
Dunne bought the seven-acre Jurys Berkeley Court site for just under €380m but land values have fallen significantly since then. In the same area, he also owns land at AIB Bankcentre and Hume House.
Other assets include the Donnybrook Mall; land in Greystones, Co Wicklow; and sites in the north and south docklands of Dublin.
Sunday Tribune
www.buckplanning.ie
Port landowners plan 'second IFSC' for post-recession Dublin
Plans for a new IFSC, dubbed East Village, have been drawn up by state-backed and private landholders in and around Dublin Port once the economic climate improves.
Dublin Port, CIE, Matt Gallagher's Earlsfort, landowner Paddy Oman and Bennett Construction are amongst a consortium of landowners who have drawn up plans for the development of a 160-acre site stretching from the East Link bridge to East Point business park near Fairview.
A draft report on the proposal, marked private and confidential, says that the scheme would take more than 10 years to construct. An economic impact report by DKM says the completed scheme could result in 60,000 jobs generating an annual wage bill of €3.4bn.
The most ambitious part of the plan involves part of the port being put into a giant 93-acre two-storey basement with capacity for more than 2,700 trucks. A two-level bridge would be built across the Liffey to take the port traffic off the East Link.
On top of the basement, various commercial and residential buildings would be constructed.
The backers of the scheme have already held preliminary talks with Dublin City Council (DCC) about including its land in the proposal. Bennett and Oman own more than nine acres in the planned development, Dublin Port owns 80 acres, Earlsfort and others own 39 acres, CIE and Irish Rail own 15 acres and DCC owns 17.8 acres.
Three separate areas would be created as part of the scheme, which has also been dubbed International Quarter.
The first area would be known as Point Peninsula and comprises land closest to the East Link toll bridge. It would have medium- to high-density mixed-use development, with an aquarium and a science museum as its centrepiece. The Liffey boardwalk would be extended to the area and a 10,000-seat arena constructed.
The second area would be around Alexandra docks, where the consortium wants to create a high-density high-rise commercial and financial district, while the third area would be known as East Point Village and have larger areas of green space.
The landowners have already requested the extension of special planning powers to the area.
Sunday Tribune
www.buckplanning.ie
Dublin Port, CIE, Matt Gallagher's Earlsfort, landowner Paddy Oman and Bennett Construction are amongst a consortium of landowners who have drawn up plans for the development of a 160-acre site stretching from the East Link bridge to East Point business park near Fairview.
A draft report on the proposal, marked private and confidential, says that the scheme would take more than 10 years to construct. An economic impact report by DKM says the completed scheme could result in 60,000 jobs generating an annual wage bill of €3.4bn.
The most ambitious part of the plan involves part of the port being put into a giant 93-acre two-storey basement with capacity for more than 2,700 trucks. A two-level bridge would be built across the Liffey to take the port traffic off the East Link.
On top of the basement, various commercial and residential buildings would be constructed.
The backers of the scheme have already held preliminary talks with Dublin City Council (DCC) about including its land in the proposal. Bennett and Oman own more than nine acres in the planned development, Dublin Port owns 80 acres, Earlsfort and others own 39 acres, CIE and Irish Rail own 15 acres and DCC owns 17.8 acres.
Three separate areas would be created as part of the scheme, which has also been dubbed International Quarter.
The first area would be known as Point Peninsula and comprises land closest to the East Link toll bridge. It would have medium- to high-density mixed-use development, with an aquarium and a science museum as its centrepiece. The Liffey boardwalk would be extended to the area and a 10,000-seat arena constructed.
The second area would be around Alexandra docks, where the consortium wants to create a high-density high-rise commercial and financial district, while the third area would be known as East Point Village and have larger areas of green space.
The landowners have already requested the extension of special planning powers to the area.
Sunday Tribune
www.buckplanning.ie
Ben Dunne objects as hearses pose threat to business at his health club
Former supermarket chief Ben Dunne is appealing a decision to give planning permission for a €15m nursing home close to his Northwood health and fitness centre in Santry, citing a lack of room for hearses to remove deceased residents.
As well as contacting An Bord Pleanála, Dunne has also written to HSE chief executive Brendan Drumm challenging the organisation's support for the home, which is being developed by Irish nursing-home chain TLC Centre Limited. Dunne claims the HSE backed the development without examining the application in detail.
In his original objection to Fingal County Council, Dunne argued that the development's lack of accommodation for hearses was "a unique but significant oversight".
"[The plan] fails to provide the adequate point for a hearse to remove the corpse of a deceased resident in a respectful manner," he said. "Obviously, it would be wholly inappropriate to do so through the main entrance and foyer of the development, causing undue stress to employees and fellow residents alike."
The proposed nursing home, if built, will have accommodation for 100 people and will be built next to TLC's existing facility in Santry.
Sunday Tribune
www.buckplanning.ie
As well as contacting An Bord Pleanála, Dunne has also written to HSE chief executive Brendan Drumm challenging the organisation's support for the home, which is being developed by Irish nursing-home chain TLC Centre Limited. Dunne claims the HSE backed the development without examining the application in detail.
In his original objection to Fingal County Council, Dunne argued that the development's lack of accommodation for hearses was "a unique but significant oversight".
"[The plan] fails to provide the adequate point for a hearse to remove the corpse of a deceased resident in a respectful manner," he said. "Obviously, it would be wholly inappropriate to do so through the main entrance and foyer of the development, causing undue stress to employees and fellow residents alike."
The proposed nursing home, if built, will have accommodation for 100 people and will be built next to TLC's existing facility in Santry.
Sunday Tribune
www.buckplanning.ie
A €10m deal to erect 60 billboards? Only in Dun Laoghaire
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council has awarded a 10-year, €10m contract to a company for the rights to erect just 60 advertising billboards.
A councillor has urged that officials carefully assess the value of the contract with leading outdoor media company, Clear Channel Ireland.
The awarding of the contract comes in the wake of a highly controversial deal struck by Dublin City Council with a French advertising company, JC Decaux, whereby €1m a year will be paid for 15 years in exchange for 450 bicycles.
After much public and political pressure about the lack of transparency surrounding the 'billboards for bikes' deal, Dublin City Council recently relented and agreed to allow an independent audit committee to examine the contract.
Citing the controversy, Green Party councillor Gene Feighery has called on Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown to ensure the Clear Channel deal would represent value for money.
"Of course I would love €10m but I really have to balance the carrot that is being dangled with whether or not it is going have a positive impact on the area and where the money is going to go and whether it is index-linked," she said.
"This is a €10m deal now but if the recession ends and advertising space is at a major premium I would want more for the spaces... I want to read the small print on this and I don't want to end up in a situation that Dublin City Council ended up in."
At a Dún Laoghaire area committee meeting last week, council management also showed local representatives the proposed locations for the 2.7 sq m standalone billboards.
But Feighery questioned whether the location of several of the advert boards would be appropriate, considering some would be situated in conservation areas.
"Dalkey is an architectural conservation area and (there) are proposals to place two there. They would be adjacent to protected structures in Dún Laoghaire and on Marine Road and we have to assess the cumulative effect and the obstruction they would cause. I would prefer to see trees being planted and although I know there is no revenue in trees, we really have to wonder whether we are defacing our town for the sake of a few pieces of silver."
In a report to councillors, Richard Shakespeare, senior executive officer of the culture, community and amenities department, said council management had also entered into talks with another company regarding the provision of larger metropole billboards.
In addition, the report noted the legal work on the Clear Channel deal was "nearing completion" and it added that the matter would be presented to councillors at the next full council meeting on Monday 9 February.
Sunday Tribune
www.buckplanning.ie
A councillor has urged that officials carefully assess the value of the contract with leading outdoor media company, Clear Channel Ireland.
The awarding of the contract comes in the wake of a highly controversial deal struck by Dublin City Council with a French advertising company, JC Decaux, whereby €1m a year will be paid for 15 years in exchange for 450 bicycles.
After much public and political pressure about the lack of transparency surrounding the 'billboards for bikes' deal, Dublin City Council recently relented and agreed to allow an independent audit committee to examine the contract.
Citing the controversy, Green Party councillor Gene Feighery has called on Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown to ensure the Clear Channel deal would represent value for money.
"Of course I would love €10m but I really have to balance the carrot that is being dangled with whether or not it is going have a positive impact on the area and where the money is going to go and whether it is index-linked," she said.
"This is a €10m deal now but if the recession ends and advertising space is at a major premium I would want more for the spaces... I want to read the small print on this and I don't want to end up in a situation that Dublin City Council ended up in."
At a Dún Laoghaire area committee meeting last week, council management also showed local representatives the proposed locations for the 2.7 sq m standalone billboards.
But Feighery questioned whether the location of several of the advert boards would be appropriate, considering some would be situated in conservation areas.
"Dalkey is an architectural conservation area and (there) are proposals to place two there. They would be adjacent to protected structures in Dún Laoghaire and on Marine Road and we have to assess the cumulative effect and the obstruction they would cause. I would prefer to see trees being planted and although I know there is no revenue in trees, we really have to wonder whether we are defacing our town for the sake of a few pieces of silver."
In a report to councillors, Richard Shakespeare, senior executive officer of the culture, community and amenities department, said council management had also entered into talks with another company regarding the provision of larger metropole billboards.
In addition, the report noted the legal work on the Clear Channel deal was "nearing completion" and it added that the matter would be presented to councillors at the next full council meeting on Monday 9 February.
Sunday Tribune
www.buckplanning.ie
€15m 'Guggenheim' project for Kenmare
Kerry hotelier John Brennan, who settled a dispute with builder Seán Dunne in the High Court last week, is to build a €15m exhibition centre in Kenmare.
Brennan, who likened his project to the Guggenheim or Tate Modern, told the Sunday Tribune his ambitious plans have the blessing of the picturesque town's business community.
The hotelier said while the region has virtually every attraction and the infrastructure necessary to support tourism, it is missing a key piece of architecture that will "wow" the world.
A small presentation on the project – which will be funded by a non-profit trust – was recently delivered to the local business community.
The committee behind the building includes Riverdance producer Moya Doherty, musician Philip King and former Abbey Theatre director Joe Dowling.
Brennan, who runs the luxurious Kenmare Park Hotel and is known for the RTÉ television series At Your Service, said: "The whole point of this project is to create a catalyst for tourism. It's a serious proposal to address a faltering industry in the south of Ireland."
The "well regarded" architect behind the project will be unveiled in a week's time and it is hoped the move will create short-term construction jobs and long-term tourism employment.
Brennan explained that an alternative annual show will be hosted at the building every year with enough significance to bolster visitor numbers.
He noted that a key motivation for people taking foreign trips is a combination of architecture and culture such as the famous Guggenheim in Bilbao, Spain or the Tate St Ives in England.
"This will be very different to them; the concept is very, very unique. It's not a museum, it's not a theatre or an exhibition centre but it could be a world class version of any of them depending on what type of exhibition is there," he said.
"This facility is designed to change annually so that people will come back for an exhibition. The architecture will be extremely strong but so will the context of the building.
"There is a whole story behind the architecture which stems from the history of Kenmare. Everyone who has seen [the plans] has said 'wow'."
Sunday Tribune
www.buckplanning.ie
Brennan, who likened his project to the Guggenheim or Tate Modern, told the Sunday Tribune his ambitious plans have the blessing of the picturesque town's business community.
The hotelier said while the region has virtually every attraction and the infrastructure necessary to support tourism, it is missing a key piece of architecture that will "wow" the world.
A small presentation on the project – which will be funded by a non-profit trust – was recently delivered to the local business community.
The committee behind the building includes Riverdance producer Moya Doherty, musician Philip King and former Abbey Theatre director Joe Dowling.
Brennan, who runs the luxurious Kenmare Park Hotel and is known for the RTÉ television series At Your Service, said: "The whole point of this project is to create a catalyst for tourism. It's a serious proposal to address a faltering industry in the south of Ireland."
The "well regarded" architect behind the project will be unveiled in a week's time and it is hoped the move will create short-term construction jobs and long-term tourism employment.
Brennan explained that an alternative annual show will be hosted at the building every year with enough significance to bolster visitor numbers.
He noted that a key motivation for people taking foreign trips is a combination of architecture and culture such as the famous Guggenheim in Bilbao, Spain or the Tate St Ives in England.
"This will be very different to them; the concept is very, very unique. It's not a museum, it's not a theatre or an exhibition centre but it could be a world class version of any of them depending on what type of exhibition is there," he said.
"This facility is designed to change annually so that people will come back for an exhibition. The architecture will be extremely strong but so will the context of the building.
"There is a whole story behind the architecture which stems from the history of Kenmare. Everyone who has seen [the plans] has said 'wow'."
Sunday Tribune
www.buckplanning.ie
Most ambitious project ever seen in city
The 188,102 sqm mixed-use scheme was among the most ambitious ever seen by planners.
The seven-acre site in Ballsbridge was bounded by Pembroke Road, Shelbourne Road, Lansdowne Road and the former Veterinary College site.
The site was to be transformed, with 10 buildings ranging from 10 to 37 storeys, constructed on new streets at an estimated cost of €1bn.
There would be 536 apartments, shops, pubs and restaurants comprising 27,375 sqm, offices of 27,839 sqm, an embassy building of 13,251 sqm and a hotel, media centre, cultural quarter, creche and fitness centre.
Jury's and the Berkerley Court Hotels would be demolished and a new street network created, opening up the site to Pembroke Road, Lansdowne Road and Shelbourne Road.
An internal street would also provide a link with the adjoining former Veterinary College site to the south and onwards to Shelbourne Road.
Block A -- consisting of 37 storeys -- would be 136.3 metres in height, or over twice the height of Liberty Hall and 10 metres taller than the Spire on O'Connell Street.
The smaller buildings were to be 47 metres -- taller than the Ballymun tower blocks.
Some 1,316 car parking spaces would have been provided, and 1,230 bicycle spaces. Sean Dunne described his ambitious project as the future 'Knightsbridge of Dublin'.
However, planning inspector Tom Rabbette, who recommended refusal, said that while aspects of the development were of "considerable architectural merit," there were "significant problems".
Paul melia
Irish Independent
www.buckplanning.ie
The seven-acre site in Ballsbridge was bounded by Pembroke Road, Shelbourne Road, Lansdowne Road and the former Veterinary College site.
The site was to be transformed, with 10 buildings ranging from 10 to 37 storeys, constructed on new streets at an estimated cost of €1bn.
There would be 536 apartments, shops, pubs and restaurants comprising 27,375 sqm, offices of 27,839 sqm, an embassy building of 13,251 sqm and a hotel, media centre, cultural quarter, creche and fitness centre.
Jury's and the Berkerley Court Hotels would be demolished and a new street network created, opening up the site to Pembroke Road, Lansdowne Road and Shelbourne Road.
An internal street would also provide a link with the adjoining former Veterinary College site to the south and onwards to Shelbourne Road.
Block A -- consisting of 37 storeys -- would be 136.3 metres in height, or over twice the height of Liberty Hall and 10 metres taller than the Spire on O'Connell Street.
The smaller buildings were to be 47 metres -- taller than the Ballymun tower blocks.
Some 1,316 car parking spaces would have been provided, and 1,230 bicycle spaces. Sean Dunne described his ambitious project as the future 'Knightsbridge of Dublin'.
However, planning inspector Tom Rabbette, who recommended refusal, said that while aspects of the development were of "considerable architectural merit," there were "significant problems".
Paul melia
Irish Independent
www.buckplanning.ie
Maximum building height in D4 area fixed at nine storeys
AN BORD Pleanala has told a developer planning to build a 15-storey tower beside Sean Dunne's rejected development that the maximum height of any building in the area should be nine storeys.
Ray Grehan, who owns the former UCD Veterinary School site beside Jury's/Berkerley Court, was told to revise his scheme and used the height of nearby nine-storey Hume House as a reference point.
The board was expected to rule yesterday on whether his development would be approved, but the decision has been deferred.
Mr Grehan, who beat Mr Dunne's record price by paying €171.5m for the site in 2005, proposed building 109 apartments, 20,000 square metres of office space, retail units and a cultural quarter.
It means Mr Grehan must redesign part of the scheme to meet with the approval of planners. The new proposal must be submitted by the end of March.
Yesterday's decision to refuse permission to Mr Dunne means there is still no guidance for the maximum height of buildings in the capital.
New proposals in a document called 'Maximising the City's Potential' are expected to be put out for public consultation next month and will be voted on by councillors in May.
The draft plan would allow developments of more than 16 storeys in five locations in the city centre -- the Docklands, near Connolly, Heuston and Tara Street train stations and in the Thomas Street area.
Another 10 areas, including Phibsboro and the Naas Road, would be allowed buildings up to 16 storeys if they are deemed to be landmarks.
Paul Melia
Irish Independent
www.buckplanning.ie
Ray Grehan, who owns the former UCD Veterinary School site beside Jury's/Berkerley Court, was told to revise his scheme and used the height of nearby nine-storey Hume House as a reference point.
The board was expected to rule yesterday on whether his development would be approved, but the decision has been deferred.
Mr Grehan, who beat Mr Dunne's record price by paying €171.5m for the site in 2005, proposed building 109 apartments, 20,000 square metres of office space, retail units and a cultural quarter.
It means Mr Grehan must redesign part of the scheme to meet with the approval of planners. The new proposal must be submitted by the end of March.
Yesterday's decision to refuse permission to Mr Dunne means there is still no guidance for the maximum height of buildings in the capital.
New proposals in a document called 'Maximising the City's Potential' are expected to be put out for public consultation next month and will be voted on by councillors in May.
The draft plan would allow developments of more than 16 storeys in five locations in the city centre -- the Docklands, near Connolly, Heuston and Tara Street train stations and in the Thomas Street area.
Another 10 areas, including Phibsboro and the Naas Road, would be allowed buildings up to 16 storeys if they are deemed to be landmarks.
Paul Melia
Irish Independent
www.buckplanning.ie
Developer not short of high-profile properties
DESPITE his planning setback, Sean Dunne still owns a substantial number of high-profile properties across the greater Dublin area.
These include a number of prime office developments, an area of the market which has seen its value estimated to have halved from the peak of the market less than 16 months ago.
These developments are now priced at around €8,370 per square metre, while office rents have also dropped by up to 10pc to €4,623 per square metre.
While development land value in Dublin city has dropped by about 40pc to 50pc in the last year, his development sites in places such as Kildare may have seen an even bigger drop.
But Mr Dunne has repeatedly said his high-profile Jurys/ Berkeley Court site has increased in value.
Last year he told RTE that while he accepted property prices had gone down, he did not believe they would plummet to the extent that, in five years' time, the property would be worth less than he had paid.
The Carlow-born developer said that the valuation of the land had doubled in the 12 months after he bought it for roughly €67m an acre, to €120m an acre.
"I considered that I was lucky," he said. "I was first in. If land doubles and is back 40pc or 50pc, it is still back at the purchase price."
Mr Dunne owns part of the AIB bank centre in Ballsbridge for which he paid €200m in 2006, going on to lease the office blocks back to the bank on a long-term lease.
He also owns Hume House in Ballsbridge, which he acquired by swapping it for his Riverside IV office block in a deal valued at €130m. Now he is seeking to redevelop Hume House as an office block of up to 14 storeys. He also owns the Blood Stone Building in the Docklands.
An Bord Pleanala recently refused permission for a €1bn shopping centre in Greystones, which Mr Dunne hoped to develop with another high-profile developer, Sean Mulryan, though their Zapi development company. The future of the 80-acre site is uncertain.
Zapi was also frustrated in its efforts to get Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council to rezone the Irish Glass Bottle social club site in Goatstown for 265 student apartments. The company paid €18m for the site, and it is currently idle.
Last November, An Bord Pleanala refused permission for a €70m residential, retail and office development at the Zed Candy factory site in Kilcock, Co Kildare, because it would have a detrimental impact on the "viability and vitality" of Kilcock town centre. The development would have been spread over six blocks rising to six storeys.
He also owns a site in the north Docklands, and will find out next month if a retirement village of 100 units at Stocking Lane in Rathfarnham will be given the go-ahead by An Bord Pleanala.
Paul Melia and Donal Buckley
Irish Independent
www.buckplanning.ie
These include a number of prime office developments, an area of the market which has seen its value estimated to have halved from the peak of the market less than 16 months ago.
These developments are now priced at around €8,370 per square metre, while office rents have also dropped by up to 10pc to €4,623 per square metre.
While development land value in Dublin city has dropped by about 40pc to 50pc in the last year, his development sites in places such as Kildare may have seen an even bigger drop.
But Mr Dunne has repeatedly said his high-profile Jurys/ Berkeley Court site has increased in value.
Last year he told RTE that while he accepted property prices had gone down, he did not believe they would plummet to the extent that, in five years' time, the property would be worth less than he had paid.
The Carlow-born developer said that the valuation of the land had doubled in the 12 months after he bought it for roughly €67m an acre, to €120m an acre.
"I considered that I was lucky," he said. "I was first in. If land doubles and is back 40pc or 50pc, it is still back at the purchase price."
Mr Dunne owns part of the AIB bank centre in Ballsbridge for which he paid €200m in 2006, going on to lease the office blocks back to the bank on a long-term lease.
He also owns Hume House in Ballsbridge, which he acquired by swapping it for his Riverside IV office block in a deal valued at €130m. Now he is seeking to redevelop Hume House as an office block of up to 14 storeys. He also owns the Blood Stone Building in the Docklands.
An Bord Pleanala recently refused permission for a €1bn shopping centre in Greystones, which Mr Dunne hoped to develop with another high-profile developer, Sean Mulryan, though their Zapi development company. The future of the 80-acre site is uncertain.
Zapi was also frustrated in its efforts to get Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council to rezone the Irish Glass Bottle social club site in Goatstown for 265 student apartments. The company paid €18m for the site, and it is currently idle.
Last November, An Bord Pleanala refused permission for a €70m residential, retail and office development at the Zed Candy factory site in Kilcock, Co Kildare, because it would have a detrimental impact on the "viability and vitality" of Kilcock town centre. The development would have been spread over six blocks rising to six storeys.
He also owns a site in the north Docklands, and will find out next month if a retirement village of 100 units at Stocking Lane in Rathfarnham will be given the go-ahead by An Bord Pleanala.
Paul Melia and Donal Buckley
Irish Independent
www.buckplanning.ie
Tycoon incensed with 'game of roulette' after €1.5bn project rejected
MILLIONAIRE businessman Sean Dunne came out fighting last night, after planners refused permission for his €1.5bn development in Ireland's most expensive suburb.
An Bord Pleanala refused permission for the high-rise development -- including a 37-storey tower -- in Ballsbridge in Dublin 4, sending a shockwave through the Irish banking sector.
Last night, Mr Dunne criticised the planning process as "a game of roulette" and said he would go back to the drawing board to submit a new plan for the site which cost him a record €380m four years ago, but could now take years to develop.
The decision to refuse permission in affluent Dublin 4 sent a shockwave through the banking sector as Ulster Bank -- the main backer of the scheme -- looks to revalue the land which was bought at the height of the boom.
Since then, the value of development land has fallen by up to 50pc, new office developments have plunged in price and office rents have dropped up to 10pc in the capital.
And although Mr Dunne has pledged to submit a new plan for the seven-acre site, the results of the auditors' assessment will lead to a ripple effect across the sector as lenders are forced to start slashing the value of land they hold as collateral.
Mr Dunne, who paid €380m for the seven-acre site containing Jurys and the Berkeley Court hotels in 2005, had hoped to build 536 apartments, retail and office space, shops, pubs, restaurants and a 232-bedroom hotel in Dublin 4, describing his ambitious plans as the 'Knightsbridge of Dublin'.
The development included 10 buildings ranging from 10 to 18 storeys in height, with plans to include a 37-storey 136-metre-tall tower at the centre of the scheme attracting the ire of local residents.
The Carlow-born developer last night said he had spent €15m on the scheme to date and that 970 construction jobs had been lost.
Unworkable
"The current system is lengthy, expensive, confusing and unworkable," he charged. "As the system stands, applying for planning permission has become a game of roulette. Local authorities, politicians, residents, planning inspectors, Bord inspectors and An Bord Pleanala are regularly at odds with each other as to what constitutes proper planning and development on any given site."
And he said he was "very disappointed" for local residents who would lose a community centre and sports hall because of the refusal.
He added that business was "thriving" at D4hotels.com -- the former Jury's and Berkeley Court -- and that the hotels would remain open for business "for the foreseeable future".
An Bord Pleanala refused permission for the scheme, saying it would constitute "gross overdevelopment" of the site.
Local residents last night demanded an investigation into why Dublin City Council granted partial permission for the scheme, saying Environment Minister John Gormley should investigate why city planners "forged ahead" with and actively encouraged the developer to pursue permissions which had no justification on planning grounds.
Mr Dunne recently told the 'New York Times' that he believed his ambitious plans could still succeed, despite the recession and property market crash.
He has the option of appealing the An Bord Pleanala decision to the High Court on a point of law, but last night indicated he would submit a revised scheme which would meet the zoning of the site, which is residential.
Mr Dunne has been involved in a series of high-profile court cases in recent weeks.
Earlier this week, a legal battle with prominent hotelier John Brennan over the ownership of an Internet domain name was settled out of court.
The pair were contesting ownership of the name D4hotels.com -- the name of the former Jury's Doyle hotel in Ballsbridge.
Also last week, it emerged that Mr Dunne was being sued by a firm of estate agents in a row over an allegation that he owed €1.5m in unpaid fees. He claims the money is owed by his company, Mountbrook Homes, and not him personally.
Late last year, the High Court found -- after a challenge by Mr Dunne -- that an €83m eight-storey office block development on Dublin's north quays should not have been built because the Dublin Docklands Development Authority (DDDA) had accepted land from the developer as part of a confidential deal which led to the building's go-ahead.
But developer Liam Carroll was granted permission by Dublin City Council to retain the building. It is unclear if Mr Dunne will take further action.
Paul Melia, Joe Brennan and Fergus Black
Irish Independent
www.buckplanning.ie
An Bord Pleanala refused permission for the high-rise development -- including a 37-storey tower -- in Ballsbridge in Dublin 4, sending a shockwave through the Irish banking sector.
Last night, Mr Dunne criticised the planning process as "a game of roulette" and said he would go back to the drawing board to submit a new plan for the site which cost him a record €380m four years ago, but could now take years to develop.
The decision to refuse permission in affluent Dublin 4 sent a shockwave through the banking sector as Ulster Bank -- the main backer of the scheme -- looks to revalue the land which was bought at the height of the boom.
Since then, the value of development land has fallen by up to 50pc, new office developments have plunged in price and office rents have dropped up to 10pc in the capital.
And although Mr Dunne has pledged to submit a new plan for the seven-acre site, the results of the auditors' assessment will lead to a ripple effect across the sector as lenders are forced to start slashing the value of land they hold as collateral.
Mr Dunne, who paid €380m for the seven-acre site containing Jurys and the Berkeley Court hotels in 2005, had hoped to build 536 apartments, retail and office space, shops, pubs, restaurants and a 232-bedroom hotel in Dublin 4, describing his ambitious plans as the 'Knightsbridge of Dublin'.
The development included 10 buildings ranging from 10 to 18 storeys in height, with plans to include a 37-storey 136-metre-tall tower at the centre of the scheme attracting the ire of local residents.
The Carlow-born developer last night said he had spent €15m on the scheme to date and that 970 construction jobs had been lost.
Unworkable
"The current system is lengthy, expensive, confusing and unworkable," he charged. "As the system stands, applying for planning permission has become a game of roulette. Local authorities, politicians, residents, planning inspectors, Bord inspectors and An Bord Pleanala are regularly at odds with each other as to what constitutes proper planning and development on any given site."
And he said he was "very disappointed" for local residents who would lose a community centre and sports hall because of the refusal.
He added that business was "thriving" at D4hotels.com -- the former Jury's and Berkeley Court -- and that the hotels would remain open for business "for the foreseeable future".
An Bord Pleanala refused permission for the scheme, saying it would constitute "gross overdevelopment" of the site.
Local residents last night demanded an investigation into why Dublin City Council granted partial permission for the scheme, saying Environment Minister John Gormley should investigate why city planners "forged ahead" with and actively encouraged the developer to pursue permissions which had no justification on planning grounds.
Mr Dunne recently told the 'New York Times' that he believed his ambitious plans could still succeed, despite the recession and property market crash.
He has the option of appealing the An Bord Pleanala decision to the High Court on a point of law, but last night indicated he would submit a revised scheme which would meet the zoning of the site, which is residential.
Mr Dunne has been involved in a series of high-profile court cases in recent weeks.
Earlier this week, a legal battle with prominent hotelier John Brennan over the ownership of an Internet domain name was settled out of court.
The pair were contesting ownership of the name D4hotels.com -- the name of the former Jury's Doyle hotel in Ballsbridge.
Also last week, it emerged that Mr Dunne was being sued by a firm of estate agents in a row over an allegation that he owed €1.5m in unpaid fees. He claims the money is owed by his company, Mountbrook Homes, and not him personally.
Late last year, the High Court found -- after a challenge by Mr Dunne -- that an €83m eight-storey office block development on Dublin's north quays should not have been built because the Dublin Docklands Development Authority (DDDA) had accepted land from the developer as part of a confidential deal which led to the building's go-ahead.
But developer Liam Carroll was granted permission by Dublin City Council to retain the building. It is unclear if Mr Dunne will take further action.
Paul Melia, Joe Brennan and Fergus Black
Irish Independent
www.buckplanning.ie
From simple beginnings to Shrewsbury Road luxury
FROM a wedding reception on the yacht formerly owned by Aristotle Onassis to his penchant for three-piece pin-striped suits, there are few characters who epitomise the Celtic Tiger more than Sean Dunne.
But as he is quick to point out, the flamboyant builder was not born into wealth and was working from the age of 12, a detail which was illustrated to the 'New York Times' recently during an interview in the early hours of the morning in Doheny & Nesbitt's.
It was here where 'Dunner' bent to pick up a cent coin, allowing him to declare that he is "never, never too proud to pick a penny up from the floor".
Background
The background of the silver-haired developer is far from the detached Shrewsbury Road home he shares with wife Gayle Killilea, his early years having been spent in Tullow, Co Carlow.
As the fourth of five children, he told last year of how he and they would go for a swim in the River Slaney when they needed a bath and of making hay and picking potatoes before he had even become a teenager.
Having qualified as a quantity surveyor in 1977 and spent two years working abroad, his first experience in the building trade proper came as he oversaw the construction of houses in Jobstown in Tallaght.
It was in 1983 that he set up with colleagues as DCD Builders but the vicious economic climate of 1980s Ireland resulted in a move to London for work before coming back in 1989 and quickly building up his empire.
Deals such as the purchase of Woodtown Manor in Rathfarnham, a Georgian house on 150 acres of land, for the bargain price of €1.4m in 1997, elevated him to one of the country's most prominent developers, but he remained relatively anonymous to the general public.
This changed when his wedding to former journalist and socialite Gayle Killilea transferred him to the society pages.
In a style to which he has become synonymous, their wedding took place in 2004 in an opulent 17th-Century villa in Santa Margherita, Italy before a 14-day celebration aboard the Cristina O, the yacht formerly owned by Aristotle Onassis.
Surrounded by guests such as designer Karen Millen, impresario Michael Colgan, Irish Nationwide chief Michael Fingleton and rugby player Ronan O'Gara, in the middle of the celebrations there was a pause to take a call from then Taoiseach Bertie Ahern -- a close friend.
As the story goes, it was Gayle who was asked by her husband to to pick a number between €253m and €275m when deciding on his final offer for the first tranche of the Dublin 4 land on the Jury's and Berkeley Court site.
Known as a man who is not afraid of a fight, his most recent disagreement was with hotelier John Brennan earlier this week when the two settled a legal battle over the ownership of the name "d4 hotels" at the Commercial Court.
Balancing a personality which has been described as aggressive is a streak of generosity. He is known to fly friends to rugby matches and has bought a €1m flood-lit all-weather pitch for Clongowes Wood College in Co Kildare, where his two older sons were educated.
Shane Hickey and Bairbre Power
Irish Independent
www.buckpplanning.ie
But as he is quick to point out, the flamboyant builder was not born into wealth and was working from the age of 12, a detail which was illustrated to the 'New York Times' recently during an interview in the early hours of the morning in Doheny & Nesbitt's.
It was here where 'Dunner' bent to pick up a cent coin, allowing him to declare that he is "never, never too proud to pick a penny up from the floor".
Background
The background of the silver-haired developer is far from the detached Shrewsbury Road home he shares with wife Gayle Killilea, his early years having been spent in Tullow, Co Carlow.
As the fourth of five children, he told last year of how he and they would go for a swim in the River Slaney when they needed a bath and of making hay and picking potatoes before he had even become a teenager.
Having qualified as a quantity surveyor in 1977 and spent two years working abroad, his first experience in the building trade proper came as he oversaw the construction of houses in Jobstown in Tallaght.
It was in 1983 that he set up with colleagues as DCD Builders but the vicious economic climate of 1980s Ireland resulted in a move to London for work before coming back in 1989 and quickly building up his empire.
Deals such as the purchase of Woodtown Manor in Rathfarnham, a Georgian house on 150 acres of land, for the bargain price of €1.4m in 1997, elevated him to one of the country's most prominent developers, but he remained relatively anonymous to the general public.
This changed when his wedding to former journalist and socialite Gayle Killilea transferred him to the society pages.
In a style to which he has become synonymous, their wedding took place in 2004 in an opulent 17th-Century villa in Santa Margherita, Italy before a 14-day celebration aboard the Cristina O, the yacht formerly owned by Aristotle Onassis.
Surrounded by guests such as designer Karen Millen, impresario Michael Colgan, Irish Nationwide chief Michael Fingleton and rugby player Ronan O'Gara, in the middle of the celebrations there was a pause to take a call from then Taoiseach Bertie Ahern -- a close friend.
As the story goes, it was Gayle who was asked by her husband to to pick a number between €253m and €275m when deciding on his final offer for the first tranche of the Dublin 4 land on the Jury's and Berkeley Court site.
Known as a man who is not afraid of a fight, his most recent disagreement was with hotelier John Brennan earlier this week when the two settled a legal battle over the ownership of the name "d4 hotels" at the Commercial Court.
Balancing a personality which has been described as aggressive is a streak of generosity. He is known to fly friends to rugby matches and has bought a €1m flood-lit all-weather pitch for Clongowes Wood College in Co Kildare, where his two older sons were educated.
Shane Hickey and Bairbre Power
Irish Independent
www.buckpplanning.ie
Residents seek an investigation into council's handling of sean case
RESIDENTS groups yesterday demanded an investigation into a local authority's handling of businessman Sean Dunne's failed €1bn Ballsbridge project.
Opponents of the controversial plan welcomed yesterday's Bord Pleanala ruling refusing permission for the high-rise development.
A record number of submissions were made in relation to the scheme, with 36 appeals against and 90 in support of Mr Dunne's proposals.
But a group representing 18 residents associations in the Ballsbridge, Sandymount and Lansdowne Road areas, who vigorously opposed the project, said they would be asking Environment Minister John Gormley to investigate why Dublin city planners "forged ahead" and actively encouraged the developers to pursue permissions which had no justification on planning grounds and were in direct conflict with the expressed views of so many city councillors. "It is unfair to all citizens, residents, developers and lenders that Dublin City Planners so blatantly ignored city plan policies in granting permission for this development," their statement said.
Inconsistencies in planning decisions and flexibility in relation to the rules had added fuel to the speculation in land prices and had led to incoherent development.
Last night the Department of the Environment declined to comment on the project, saying they had no role.
Alternative
In turn, Dublin City Council said it did not comment on any individual planning decisions. An Bord Pleanala was an independent third party but the council would be looking at the decision in relation to the application.
However, one of the groups that opposed the development said it was willing to talk again to Sean Dunne about alternative plans. Damien Cassidy, chairman of the Ringsend, Irishtown and Sandymount Environmental Group said they were not triumphalist at the outcome -- their concern had always been that Ballsbridge would have been destroyed by the proposed development.
"Sean Dunne is the type of person who is a necessary part of our way out of the recession -- but not as the cost of destroying our heritage," he said.
"We need him, he creates jobs and if he wants to come back and have another shot at this particular site with a more acceptable scheme we would be delighted to sit down and talk to him about it."
An Taisce heritage officer Ian Lumley said that what An Bord Pleanala had done was to uphold the city development plan which had been approved by the elected members of Dublin City Council. That plan did not identify Ballsbridge as being suitable for high rise development.
"This raises questions as to why the management pushed through a decision which was at variance with the development plan."
Fine Gael TD Lucinda Creighton welcomed the decision and said the Jury's site was not suitable for an "ego-monument" of 37 storeys.
But she said Sean Dunne should come up with a realistic and sustainable proposal for the site.
Fergus Black
Irish Independent
www.buckplanning.ie
Opponents of the controversial plan welcomed yesterday's Bord Pleanala ruling refusing permission for the high-rise development.
A record number of submissions were made in relation to the scheme, with 36 appeals against and 90 in support of Mr Dunne's proposals.
But a group representing 18 residents associations in the Ballsbridge, Sandymount and Lansdowne Road areas, who vigorously opposed the project, said they would be asking Environment Minister John Gormley to investigate why Dublin city planners "forged ahead" and actively encouraged the developers to pursue permissions which had no justification on planning grounds and were in direct conflict with the expressed views of so many city councillors. "It is unfair to all citizens, residents, developers and lenders that Dublin City Planners so blatantly ignored city plan policies in granting permission for this development," their statement said.
Inconsistencies in planning decisions and flexibility in relation to the rules had added fuel to the speculation in land prices and had led to incoherent development.
Last night the Department of the Environment declined to comment on the project, saying they had no role.
Alternative
In turn, Dublin City Council said it did not comment on any individual planning decisions. An Bord Pleanala was an independent third party but the council would be looking at the decision in relation to the application.
However, one of the groups that opposed the development said it was willing to talk again to Sean Dunne about alternative plans. Damien Cassidy, chairman of the Ringsend, Irishtown and Sandymount Environmental Group said they were not triumphalist at the outcome -- their concern had always been that Ballsbridge would have been destroyed by the proposed development.
"Sean Dunne is the type of person who is a necessary part of our way out of the recession -- but not as the cost of destroying our heritage," he said.
"We need him, he creates jobs and if he wants to come back and have another shot at this particular site with a more acceptable scheme we would be delighted to sit down and talk to him about it."
An Taisce heritage officer Ian Lumley said that what An Bord Pleanala had done was to uphold the city development plan which had been approved by the elected members of Dublin City Council. That plan did not identify Ballsbridge as being suitable for high rise development.
"This raises questions as to why the management pushed through a decision which was at variance with the development plan."
Fine Gael TD Lucinda Creighton welcomed the decision and said the Jury's site was not suitable for an "ego-monument" of 37 storeys.
But she said Sean Dunne should come up with a realistic and sustainable proposal for the site.
Fergus Black
Irish Independent
www.buckplanning.ie
Dunne's D4 dream falls victim to harsh reality
'WE had a boom for a decade and we didn't build anything that anyone will point to, nothing that you could say was iconic."
It was late last year, and Sean Dunne was shooting the breeze in the boardroom of his office on Dublin's Merrion Square.
"And I include myself in that," he added wistfully, as he got up from his chair at the head of the heavy, polished mahogany table to stretch his legs.
Michael Scollard, the man Dunne appointed as project director for the proposed redevelopment of the Jurys and Berkeley Court lands in Ballsbridge, nodded in agreement.
No doubt Scollard had heard such philosophising many times since Sean Dunne first announced his intention in 2005 to transform the tired face of Dublin 4, pledging to bring a slice of Knightsbridge to Ballsbridge.
Attired in his favoured uniform of bespoke three-piece suit, Dunne paused momentarily, before allowing what can only be described as his trademark and somewhat mischievous schoolboy grin to take hold once more.
And then it was back to the bonhomie of banter about the everyday things, sport and politics, and the rest.
Talking to him then, it was almost impossible to conceive the financial burden Sean Dunne was shouldering as a result of his hugely-expensive and clearly passionate plans for a mere seven acres of Ballsbridge land.
All told, the Carlow-born developer's acquisition of the former Jurys and Berkeley Court hotels and the neighbouring Hume House office building set him back an eye-watering €510m, with €135m of that coming from his own hand-tailored pockets.
Mere mortals would have buckled under the pressure long ago, but Dunne has long since proclaimed that failure is not an option in his case.
Speaking to the New York Times last month, the millionaire builder said: "This is the way God made me, with heavy shoulders and an ability to carry a great load."
But that already incredible load became far greater last Friday morning with the near unanimous rejection by An Bord Pleanala of Sean Dunne's plans for a 37-storey tower at the heart of the Jurys Ballsbridge site.
And while sources close to the Mountbrook boss insisted last Friday night that a new plan, on a smaller scale with less capital expenditure and a shorter building time, is viable, and that a new planning application will be submitted, few expect any movement in Ballsbridge anytime soon, given the prevailing economic climate.
Even in the boom times, the demolition and redevelopment of the landmark Jurys and Berkeley Court hotels was seen as a financially risky proposition offering, at best, uncertain returns.
With the arrival of the credit crunch in August 2007, and the subsequent collapse of the global economy, the development topped off with the tower its architect Ulrik Raysse described as "cut like a diamond" drifted further into the realm of one man's dream.
To be fair to Sean Dunne, few of those employed by the banks to predict the flow of the economic cycle had foreseen the latest spectacular implosion in the financial and property markets in time.
Indeed, those who wrote the loan cheques for the man the media variously dubbed the Baron, Squire and even Lord of Ballsbridge are now being seen by Ireland's ever increasing legion of bank critics as having encouraged the rampant speculation that went on in Dublin 4 before the crash.
Looking at the number of big name developers who tried to beat Sean Dunne to the punch in securing Jurys and the Berkeley Court in 2005, it is clear the banks were only too willing to place their bets, doling out money with seeming abandon.
In all, 13 developers submitted tenders for the Jurys building alone, with four of them pitching figures that were within €2m of the amount bid by Sean Dunne.
How the bullish builder arrived at his winning offer of €275m quickly became the stuff of legend in development and financial circles.
The story goes that Dunne and his wife, former Sunday Independent social columnist Gayle Killilea, were sitting in the luxurious Hyatt Hotel in Hua Hin in Thailand on the day tenders for the 4.84-acre Jurys site were due to be submitted. As the deadline of 12 noon drew near, Dunne's solicitor was on the phone from Dublin asking for his final offer for the prized site.
Toying with figures between €253m and €275m, the developer turned to his glamorous wife and asked her to pick any number between 253 and 275 without telling her the reason why.
Having been born in 1975, Gayle plumped for the number 75, believing it to be lucky.
Dunne instructed his solicitor to offer €275m on that basis. Commenting on the method behind what many believed to be madness in an interview afterwards, he said: "After all the work and science that goes into tenders, that's what it boils down to."
In the event, the newly-knighted Lord of Ballsbridge forked out €260m for the Jurys Ballsbridge hotel as he had taken on the site through an investment vehicle, which would see him take on responsibility for certain tax liabilities.
Clearly delighted at his coup, Dunne declared his intention to offer residents of the new Dublin 4 a chance to enjoy concierge living more commonly found in the upmarket neighbourhoods of Manhattan.
Dunne's rivals (and their bankers), meanwhile, clearly agreed with his assessment of the potential locked up in Dublin's embassy belt.
Among the 'losers' in the fight for Jurys were the Clare-born developer Bernard McNamara, who put in an offer that was just €300,000 shy of Dunne's.
Also losing out to the Mountbrook man was his near neighbour on Shrewsbury Road, Redquartz boss Paddy Kelly, as well as Ray Grehan of Glenkerrin Homes.
In hindsight, the big winners in the Jurys deal were the Doyle family, who at the outset were told the Ballsbridge site could possibly fetch €200m. But Dunne's glittering prize wasn't achieved through good fortune alone.
To have his winning bid of €275m accepted by the Jurys Doyle Group, Dunne was forced to engage in an aggressive purchase of the company's shares.
When the Precinct Consortium, comprising businessman Bryan Cullen, David Coleman and JJ Murphy, entered the fray with the backing of the billionaire Reuben brothers, Dunne immediately sensed the danger of a potential takeover of the Jurys Doyle Group, which could have scuppered his purchase of the Jurys site altogether.
The Precinct Consortium put together a due diligence report on the company and looked set to offer €1.1bn for it, or an equivalent of €17.50 per share. To counter this, Dunne was forced to buy up a substantial 29 per cent of the Jurys Doyle shares in four separate tranches to block any takeover of the company in advance of an extraordinary general meeting (EGM) called to approve the land sale. With the deal approved, however, Dunne's appetite for the company's shares didn't recede.
Within weeks, speculation was rife that he would seek to take over the Jurys Doyle group himself, with a view to freeing up its wider hotel property portfolio for residential development.
But the Carlow developer's heart was always set on transforming the select Ballsbridge land belt centred on Jurys. Confirmation of this came when it emerged that he had paid €130m for the nine-storey office block, Hume House, located beside Jurys Hotel and opposite the American Embassy.
His unshakeable belief in Dublin 4 was confirmed in no small measure by the prices achieved on lands adjoining the Jurys and Hume House sites shortly afterwards.
Just three weeks after Dunne had paid a whopping €53.7m per acre for the Jurys site, Ray Grehan of Glenkerrin Homes splashed out an unprecedented €171.5m for the former UCD veterinary college building on nearby Shelbourne Road.
The price tag paid by Grehan equated to an eye-watering €84m an acre. The two-acre site had been expected to sell for just over €120m, but this was easily outstripped by all five of the tenders ultimately submitted.
Commenting at the time on his securing of the Veterinary College site, a jubilant Ray Grehan described it as an opportunity that came around "only once a century".
While Dunne might have been disappointed not to get his own hands on the building, he was able to comfort himself with the knowledge that he had secured the Jurys land for a knockdown price -- relatively speaking.
Six months later, in May 2006, both Dunne and Grehan were left in the ha'penny place with Jerry O'Reilly and David Courtney's purchase of the state-owned Faculty Building by tender from the Office of Public Works.
The €36m the two men paid for the 0.378-acre site equated to an incredible €95m per acre, far in excess of the amount that Lambert Smith Hampton, the estate agent responsible for marketing the property, had expected.
In June that same year, David Daly of Albany Homes entered the embassy belt fray, buying Franklin House for €25m from Malahide-based developer Gerry Gannon.
With Daly's purchase, the price per acre had risen once again, this time to an unfeasible €133m.
The arrival of Bernard McNamara on the scene must have buoyed up Dunne's convictions on his vision for Dublin 4 even further, with the former Fianna Fail councillor paying the Jurys Doyle Group some €288m for the Burlington Hotel.
Shortly afterwards, McNamara followed up the Burlington acquisition with the purchase of the Allianz building next door, paying €100m for the 1.5-acre plot.
The former Fianna Fail councillor added a third string to his Ballsbridge bow in January 2007, heading up a consortium to buy Carrisbrook House for €46m.
Even as the total spend by developers in Ballsbridge surpassed the €1bn mark, nobody in the banks called a halt to what today appears to have been a speculative frenzy.
Commenting at the time, Anglo Irish Bank's head of lending for Ireland, Owen O'Neill, said: "In relation to the much-talked-about site acquisitions in Dublin 4, we believe that developers are taking the lion's share of risk and can afford to do so."
O'Neill added that the banks made decisions to provide funding based on their own appraisals of sites and their potential, rather than taking the word of the developers and their advisors.
Whatever about the availability of funding then and its lack of availability now, nobody, least of all Sean Dunne, could have counted on the strength of the opposition he would encounter from the well-heeled denizens of Dublin 4 when he submitted his planning application in August 2007.
Not even the endorsement of Dublin City Council's senior planner, Kieran Rose, for Dunne's scheme could convince residents both near and far from the site of its merits.
Mountbrook's proposed construction capital investment of €1bn and promise of 970 construction jobs on site over seven years also failed to cut the ice with those living in the area.
While the various residents' associations, backed in no small part by local politicians anxious to represent their constituents' interests, baulked at the redevelopment of the hotel lands, Dublin City Council's senior executives were more amenable.
The decision by the city management in March 2008 to grant permission to Dunne for almost every element of the Ballsbridge development, bar its centrepiece 37-storey tower, provoked some degree of controversy, with fears growing amongst objectors that an appeal could possibly see the project in its entirety being realised.
In the event, 126 appeals flooded in to An Bord Pleanala in relation to Dunne's plans for Ballsbridge, with -- somewhat unusually -- 96 of these expressing their support for the developer. In one submission, Dunne himself called for the reinstatement of the project's centrepiece tower.
Included among the objectors were a number of well-known names resident in the Ballsbridge catchment area.
Undoubtedly, the most high-profile thorn in Dunne's side was the millionaire financier and Ailesbury Road resident Dermot Desmond.
Voicing his disapproval to the development in his written submission to An Bord Pleanala, Mr Desmond described the project as "fundamentally flawed" and "clearly unacceptable".
Desmond's concerns were later expressed on his behalf by Senior Counsel Michael O'Donnell at the Bord's 15-day oral hearing held in Croke Park's convention centre last September.
In a summation of his client's feelings on Dunne's plan, Mr O'Donnell said there was a sense of unreality about the project.
"This development has not a single redeeming feature . It is entirely divorced from the planning reality and planning codes in this jurisdiction," he concluded.
Meanwhile, barrister Colm MacEochaidh, summing up the feelings of the 11 residents' associations he represented at the hearings, urged the Bord to reject the scheme on the grounds that Ballsbridge was not Knightsbridge.
Describing the proposed buildings as "oppressive and monolithic" in design, MacEochaidh said: "The people who live in Ballsbridge have no wish to live in Knightsbridge."
With last Friday's rejection of Sean Dunne's plans for the Jurys and Berkeley Court site, it's safe to say the residents in and around the developer's hotels won't be getting a taste of Knightsbridge living anytime soon.
But with rooms at the Ballsbridge Court, Ballsbridge Towers and Ballsbridge Inn on offer for as little as €37 a night for the month of February, it's clear that the Dunner's sense of humour and determination to make a buck -- be that fast or otherwise -- in Dublin 4 is still very much intact.
A lot Dunne, more to do, as the man himself might say.
Sunday Independent
www.buckplanning.ie
It was late last year, and Sean Dunne was shooting the breeze in the boardroom of his office on Dublin's Merrion Square.
"And I include myself in that," he added wistfully, as he got up from his chair at the head of the heavy, polished mahogany table to stretch his legs.
Michael Scollard, the man Dunne appointed as project director for the proposed redevelopment of the Jurys and Berkeley Court lands in Ballsbridge, nodded in agreement.
No doubt Scollard had heard such philosophising many times since Sean Dunne first announced his intention in 2005 to transform the tired face of Dublin 4, pledging to bring a slice of Knightsbridge to Ballsbridge.
Attired in his favoured uniform of bespoke three-piece suit, Dunne paused momentarily, before allowing what can only be described as his trademark and somewhat mischievous schoolboy grin to take hold once more.
And then it was back to the bonhomie of banter about the everyday things, sport and politics, and the rest.
Talking to him then, it was almost impossible to conceive the financial burden Sean Dunne was shouldering as a result of his hugely-expensive and clearly passionate plans for a mere seven acres of Ballsbridge land.
All told, the Carlow-born developer's acquisition of the former Jurys and Berkeley Court hotels and the neighbouring Hume House office building set him back an eye-watering €510m, with €135m of that coming from his own hand-tailored pockets.
Mere mortals would have buckled under the pressure long ago, but Dunne has long since proclaimed that failure is not an option in his case.
Speaking to the New York Times last month, the millionaire builder said: "This is the way God made me, with heavy shoulders and an ability to carry a great load."
But that already incredible load became far greater last Friday morning with the near unanimous rejection by An Bord Pleanala of Sean Dunne's plans for a 37-storey tower at the heart of the Jurys Ballsbridge site.
And while sources close to the Mountbrook boss insisted last Friday night that a new plan, on a smaller scale with less capital expenditure and a shorter building time, is viable, and that a new planning application will be submitted, few expect any movement in Ballsbridge anytime soon, given the prevailing economic climate.
Even in the boom times, the demolition and redevelopment of the landmark Jurys and Berkeley Court hotels was seen as a financially risky proposition offering, at best, uncertain returns.
With the arrival of the credit crunch in August 2007, and the subsequent collapse of the global economy, the development topped off with the tower its architect Ulrik Raysse described as "cut like a diamond" drifted further into the realm of one man's dream.
To be fair to Sean Dunne, few of those employed by the banks to predict the flow of the economic cycle had foreseen the latest spectacular implosion in the financial and property markets in time.
Indeed, those who wrote the loan cheques for the man the media variously dubbed the Baron, Squire and even Lord of Ballsbridge are now being seen by Ireland's ever increasing legion of bank critics as having encouraged the rampant speculation that went on in Dublin 4 before the crash.
Looking at the number of big name developers who tried to beat Sean Dunne to the punch in securing Jurys and the Berkeley Court in 2005, it is clear the banks were only too willing to place their bets, doling out money with seeming abandon.
In all, 13 developers submitted tenders for the Jurys building alone, with four of them pitching figures that were within €2m of the amount bid by Sean Dunne.
How the bullish builder arrived at his winning offer of €275m quickly became the stuff of legend in development and financial circles.
The story goes that Dunne and his wife, former Sunday Independent social columnist Gayle Killilea, were sitting in the luxurious Hyatt Hotel in Hua Hin in Thailand on the day tenders for the 4.84-acre Jurys site were due to be submitted. As the deadline of 12 noon drew near, Dunne's solicitor was on the phone from Dublin asking for his final offer for the prized site.
Toying with figures between €253m and €275m, the developer turned to his glamorous wife and asked her to pick any number between 253 and 275 without telling her the reason why.
Having been born in 1975, Gayle plumped for the number 75, believing it to be lucky.
Dunne instructed his solicitor to offer €275m on that basis. Commenting on the method behind what many believed to be madness in an interview afterwards, he said: "After all the work and science that goes into tenders, that's what it boils down to."
In the event, the newly-knighted Lord of Ballsbridge forked out €260m for the Jurys Ballsbridge hotel as he had taken on the site through an investment vehicle, which would see him take on responsibility for certain tax liabilities.
Clearly delighted at his coup, Dunne declared his intention to offer residents of the new Dublin 4 a chance to enjoy concierge living more commonly found in the upmarket neighbourhoods of Manhattan.
Dunne's rivals (and their bankers), meanwhile, clearly agreed with his assessment of the potential locked up in Dublin's embassy belt.
Among the 'losers' in the fight for Jurys were the Clare-born developer Bernard McNamara, who put in an offer that was just €300,000 shy of Dunne's.
Also losing out to the Mountbrook man was his near neighbour on Shrewsbury Road, Redquartz boss Paddy Kelly, as well as Ray Grehan of Glenkerrin Homes.
In hindsight, the big winners in the Jurys deal were the Doyle family, who at the outset were told the Ballsbridge site could possibly fetch €200m. But Dunne's glittering prize wasn't achieved through good fortune alone.
To have his winning bid of €275m accepted by the Jurys Doyle Group, Dunne was forced to engage in an aggressive purchase of the company's shares.
When the Precinct Consortium, comprising businessman Bryan Cullen, David Coleman and JJ Murphy, entered the fray with the backing of the billionaire Reuben brothers, Dunne immediately sensed the danger of a potential takeover of the Jurys Doyle Group, which could have scuppered his purchase of the Jurys site altogether.
The Precinct Consortium put together a due diligence report on the company and looked set to offer €1.1bn for it, or an equivalent of €17.50 per share. To counter this, Dunne was forced to buy up a substantial 29 per cent of the Jurys Doyle shares in four separate tranches to block any takeover of the company in advance of an extraordinary general meeting (EGM) called to approve the land sale. With the deal approved, however, Dunne's appetite for the company's shares didn't recede.
Within weeks, speculation was rife that he would seek to take over the Jurys Doyle group himself, with a view to freeing up its wider hotel property portfolio for residential development.
But the Carlow developer's heart was always set on transforming the select Ballsbridge land belt centred on Jurys. Confirmation of this came when it emerged that he had paid €130m for the nine-storey office block, Hume House, located beside Jurys Hotel and opposite the American Embassy.
His unshakeable belief in Dublin 4 was confirmed in no small measure by the prices achieved on lands adjoining the Jurys and Hume House sites shortly afterwards.
Just three weeks after Dunne had paid a whopping €53.7m per acre for the Jurys site, Ray Grehan of Glenkerrin Homes splashed out an unprecedented €171.5m for the former UCD veterinary college building on nearby Shelbourne Road.
The price tag paid by Grehan equated to an eye-watering €84m an acre. The two-acre site had been expected to sell for just over €120m, but this was easily outstripped by all five of the tenders ultimately submitted.
Commenting at the time on his securing of the Veterinary College site, a jubilant Ray Grehan described it as an opportunity that came around "only once a century".
While Dunne might have been disappointed not to get his own hands on the building, he was able to comfort himself with the knowledge that he had secured the Jurys land for a knockdown price -- relatively speaking.
Six months later, in May 2006, both Dunne and Grehan were left in the ha'penny place with Jerry O'Reilly and David Courtney's purchase of the state-owned Faculty Building by tender from the Office of Public Works.
The €36m the two men paid for the 0.378-acre site equated to an incredible €95m per acre, far in excess of the amount that Lambert Smith Hampton, the estate agent responsible for marketing the property, had expected.
In June that same year, David Daly of Albany Homes entered the embassy belt fray, buying Franklin House for €25m from Malahide-based developer Gerry Gannon.
With Daly's purchase, the price per acre had risen once again, this time to an unfeasible €133m.
The arrival of Bernard McNamara on the scene must have buoyed up Dunne's convictions on his vision for Dublin 4 even further, with the former Fianna Fail councillor paying the Jurys Doyle Group some €288m for the Burlington Hotel.
Shortly afterwards, McNamara followed up the Burlington acquisition with the purchase of the Allianz building next door, paying €100m for the 1.5-acre plot.
The former Fianna Fail councillor added a third string to his Ballsbridge bow in January 2007, heading up a consortium to buy Carrisbrook House for €46m.
Even as the total spend by developers in Ballsbridge surpassed the €1bn mark, nobody in the banks called a halt to what today appears to have been a speculative frenzy.
Commenting at the time, Anglo Irish Bank's head of lending for Ireland, Owen O'Neill, said: "In relation to the much-talked-about site acquisitions in Dublin 4, we believe that developers are taking the lion's share of risk and can afford to do so."
O'Neill added that the banks made decisions to provide funding based on their own appraisals of sites and their potential, rather than taking the word of the developers and their advisors.
Whatever about the availability of funding then and its lack of availability now, nobody, least of all Sean Dunne, could have counted on the strength of the opposition he would encounter from the well-heeled denizens of Dublin 4 when he submitted his planning application in August 2007.
Not even the endorsement of Dublin City Council's senior planner, Kieran Rose, for Dunne's scheme could convince residents both near and far from the site of its merits.
Mountbrook's proposed construction capital investment of €1bn and promise of 970 construction jobs on site over seven years also failed to cut the ice with those living in the area.
While the various residents' associations, backed in no small part by local politicians anxious to represent their constituents' interests, baulked at the redevelopment of the hotel lands, Dublin City Council's senior executives were more amenable.
The decision by the city management in March 2008 to grant permission to Dunne for almost every element of the Ballsbridge development, bar its centrepiece 37-storey tower, provoked some degree of controversy, with fears growing amongst objectors that an appeal could possibly see the project in its entirety being realised.
In the event, 126 appeals flooded in to An Bord Pleanala in relation to Dunne's plans for Ballsbridge, with -- somewhat unusually -- 96 of these expressing their support for the developer. In one submission, Dunne himself called for the reinstatement of the project's centrepiece tower.
Included among the objectors were a number of well-known names resident in the Ballsbridge catchment area.
Undoubtedly, the most high-profile thorn in Dunne's side was the millionaire financier and Ailesbury Road resident Dermot Desmond.
Voicing his disapproval to the development in his written submission to An Bord Pleanala, Mr Desmond described the project as "fundamentally flawed" and "clearly unacceptable".
Desmond's concerns were later expressed on his behalf by Senior Counsel Michael O'Donnell at the Bord's 15-day oral hearing held in Croke Park's convention centre last September.
In a summation of his client's feelings on Dunne's plan, Mr O'Donnell said there was a sense of unreality about the project.
"This development has not a single redeeming feature . It is entirely divorced from the planning reality and planning codes in this jurisdiction," he concluded.
Meanwhile, barrister Colm MacEochaidh, summing up the feelings of the 11 residents' associations he represented at the hearings, urged the Bord to reject the scheme on the grounds that Ballsbridge was not Knightsbridge.
Describing the proposed buildings as "oppressive and monolithic" in design, MacEochaidh said: "The people who live in Ballsbridge have no wish to live in Knightsbridge."
With last Friday's rejection of Sean Dunne's plans for the Jurys and Berkeley Court site, it's safe to say the residents in and around the developer's hotels won't be getting a taste of Knightsbridge living anytime soon.
But with rooms at the Ballsbridge Court, Ballsbridge Towers and Ballsbridge Inn on offer for as little as €37 a night for the month of February, it's clear that the Dunner's sense of humour and determination to make a buck -- be that fast or otherwise -- in Dublin 4 is still very much intact.
A lot Dunne, more to do, as the man himself might say.
Sunday Independent
www.buckplanning.ie
Rejection of high-rise plan welcomed
OBJECTOR'S REACTIONS: OBJECTORS TO property developer Seán Dunne’s high-density plans for Ballsbridge welcomed An Bord Pleanála’s rejection of the scheme yesterday and called on Minister for the Environment John Gormley to investigate the handling of the application by Dublin City planners.
A number of objectors also said they bore no ill will towards Mr Dunne and were now hopeful of a “meaningful input” into any new plans for the landmark site.
However, the appeals board’s decision was described as “a loss to Dublin” by Construction Industry Federation director general Tom Parlon, who said the proposal had “cost a lot of time and money” and would not be easily or quickly replaced. Speaking on behalf of a coalition of 16 residents’ associations that had objected to the development, Valerin O’Shea said it was significant that the board had relied so heavily on the City Development Plan in rejecting the proposal.
The development plan was, she insisted, “a legal contract made with the people on which we are entitled to rely for the development of our city”.
She called for an inquiry saying the planners had rejected their own development plan.
“We believe that the experience in Ballsbridge has city-wide implications and we will be asking the Minister for the Environment to investigate the handling of this application by the Dublin city planners, and to find out why they forged ahead with, and actively encouraged, the developer to pursue permission which had no justification on planning grounds and which was in direct conflict with the expressed views of so many of our city councillors,” she said in a statement.
Dublin City Council said it never commented on individual applications, but a spokesman said it would “be studying the decision”.
Ballsbridge area councillor Dermot Lacey of the Labour Party said the board’s decision showed “the councillors stood 100 per cent behind proper planning and development of the area,” something he said for which the media rarely gave councillors credit.
Mr Lacey said there was a significant risk that large-scale developments that attracted rates and development levies for local authorities would result in “planning following the money”. He said he bore no ill will towards Mr Dunne adding “I like the man” and was hopeful of reaching a consensus on what should be built on the site.
The rejection of the Ballsbridge scheme was also welcomed by Fine Gael TD Lucinda Creighton and her party colleague, Cllr Pat McCartan. He said there should be talks with the local community “to devise a more appropriate and realistic proposal for the site”.
Objector Dominic Cassidy said he too bore no ill feeling towards Mr Dunne and would look forward to discussing the future development of the site, incorporating public amenities such as the former Jurys coffee dock.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
A number of objectors also said they bore no ill will towards Mr Dunne and were now hopeful of a “meaningful input” into any new plans for the landmark site.
However, the appeals board’s decision was described as “a loss to Dublin” by Construction Industry Federation director general Tom Parlon, who said the proposal had “cost a lot of time and money” and would not be easily or quickly replaced. Speaking on behalf of a coalition of 16 residents’ associations that had objected to the development, Valerin O’Shea said it was significant that the board had relied so heavily on the City Development Plan in rejecting the proposal.
The development plan was, she insisted, “a legal contract made with the people on which we are entitled to rely for the development of our city”.
She called for an inquiry saying the planners had rejected their own development plan.
“We believe that the experience in Ballsbridge has city-wide implications and we will be asking the Minister for the Environment to investigate the handling of this application by the Dublin city planners, and to find out why they forged ahead with, and actively encouraged, the developer to pursue permission which had no justification on planning grounds and which was in direct conflict with the expressed views of so many of our city councillors,” she said in a statement.
Dublin City Council said it never commented on individual applications, but a spokesman said it would “be studying the decision”.
Ballsbridge area councillor Dermot Lacey of the Labour Party said the board’s decision showed “the councillors stood 100 per cent behind proper planning and development of the area,” something he said for which the media rarely gave councillors credit.
Mr Lacey said there was a significant risk that large-scale developments that attracted rates and development levies for local authorities would result in “planning following the money”. He said he bore no ill will towards Mr Dunne adding “I like the man” and was hopeful of reaching a consensus on what should be built on the site.
The rejection of the Ballsbridge scheme was also welcomed by Fine Gael TD Lucinda Creighton and her party colleague, Cllr Pat McCartan. He said there should be talks with the local community “to devise a more appropriate and realistic proposal for the site”.
Objector Dominic Cassidy said he too bore no ill feeling towards Mr Dunne and would look forward to discussing the future development of the site, incorporating public amenities such as the former Jurys coffee dock.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
How An Bord Pleanála shot down Dunne plan and buried Celtic Tiger
Developer Seán Dunne is now left nursing huge debts with little to show for them
THIS IS a huge setback for developer Seán Dunne, for the bankers who so willingly lent him loads of money to buy “prime sites” in Ballsbridge and even for those commentators who believed that An Bord Pleanála simply had to rubber-stamp high-rise schemes for the area, to ensure that the banks would survive.
Ireland was a different country in autumn 2005 when Dunne shelled out a total of €379 million for the privilege of acquiring the Jurys and Berkeley Court hotel sites in the heart of Ballsbridge and talked about his ambitious plans to redevelop the combined seven-acre site for a high-rise, high-density scheme.
Ordinary people couldn’t believe that any developer would pay staggering sums of €53.7 – €57.5 million per acre for the two hotel sites, although these figures were soon trumped by others in what became a Klondyke-style gold rush rooted in a conviction that values could only go up.
Dunne was also betting that permission would be granted for a complex of buildings up to 32 storeys high, transforming Ballsbridge into “the new Knightsbridge” (even though that ritzy part of London has hardly any high-rise buildings), with some 600 luxury flats offering a Manhattan-like lifestyle.
Unbelievably, his vision was shared by senior officials of Dublin City Council, including then city architect Jim Barrett.
The Danish architect who designed the development told an An Bord Pleanála hearing that Barrett favoured the 37-storey design over a 32-storey tower originally proposed.
Senior planner Kieran Rose justified it all in his effusive report recommending that permission be granted, despite many objections from mainly well-heeled and articulate local residents.
He also endorsed the architects’ argument that the proposed high-rise cluster would give a “sense of place” to Ballsbridge.
Rose’s report, which formed the basis of city manager John Tierney’s decision to approve the scheme last March, even suggested that many people would find the “diamond-cut” 37-storey tower “exciting; in the words of [poet and Nobel laureate] Séamus Heaney, it could ‘catch the heart off guard and blow it open’.”
An Bord Pleanála has taken a different view, refusing permission for the entire scheme on five grounds – although Henning Larsen’s design director Ulrik Raysse can take some pride in the board’s reference to the “high quality of the architectural treatment of the individual buildings” proposed for the site.
But Dunne’s inflated project went down in flames because there was no basis in planning policy for permission to be granted. As An Taisce said in its appeal, not only did it “materially contravene” the city development plan, it was also “massively in excess of the plot ratio considered suitable” for Ballsbridge.
The Department of the Environment’s heritage division rowed in – with the express approval of Minister for the Environment John Gormley, who is one of the local TDs. It said the scheme would have “an undue negative impact on the adjacent architectural character and significance of the area . . . a fine Victorian suburb” of Dublin.
After lengthy consideration, An Bord Pleanála agreed. It said the scheme amounted to “gross over-development” of the site, as well as being “highly obtrusive” in the context of the visual amenity of the area, “making a radical change” in its urban form “at odds with the established character of Ballsbridge”.
Significantly, the board said “such change is not supported by any local or strategic objective in the [city] development plan. Nor had Ballsbridge been identified as suitable for high-rise treatment in the policy document Maximising the City’s Potential: A Strategy for Intensification and Height , published last January.
There were also precedents for the board’s ruling. In March 2005, six months before Dunne agreed to purchase the Jurys site, it rejected plans by telecoms tycoon Denis O’Brien for a 26-storey residential tower in Donnybrook on the grounds that its “excessive height and scale” would have an “overbearing” impact.
Dunne declared that, unless he got planning permission for his scheme in its entirety, he wouldn’t build anything on the two hotel sites.
Having racked up over €700 million on the acquisition of property in Ballsbridge, including AIB Bankcentre and Hume House, he is now left nursing huge debts with little to show for them.
With property values in Dublin plummeting, these pieces of real estate are probably worth less than half the huge money paid for them just three years ago. Number-crunchers in the banks with exposure to Dunne’s debts – particularly Ulster Bank – must be working overtime to calculate what can be salvaged now.
“What happened in Ballsbridge was planning in a vacuum or, more aptly, a bubble”, as colleague Kathy Sheridan and myself wrote in our book, The Builders . Like everyone else at the height of the boom, Seán Dunne, his bankers and the city planners were all carried away on a tide of hubris.
Ray Grehan, of Glenkerrin Homes, is still awaiting a decision from the appeals board on his plans for the former Veterinary College next door, for which he paid €171.5 million in November 2005. This scheme includes an 18-storey tower, and the board has requested further information on it before it makes a decision.
The huge amounts of money paid by Dunne and other developers for sites in Ballsbridge counted for nothing in the end, because An Bord Pleanála is required to make its decisions on the basis of “proper planning and sustainable development”.
By refusing permission, the board has officially buried the Celtic Tiger.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
THIS IS a huge setback for developer Seán Dunne, for the bankers who so willingly lent him loads of money to buy “prime sites” in Ballsbridge and even for those commentators who believed that An Bord Pleanála simply had to rubber-stamp high-rise schemes for the area, to ensure that the banks would survive.
Ireland was a different country in autumn 2005 when Dunne shelled out a total of €379 million for the privilege of acquiring the Jurys and Berkeley Court hotel sites in the heart of Ballsbridge and talked about his ambitious plans to redevelop the combined seven-acre site for a high-rise, high-density scheme.
Ordinary people couldn’t believe that any developer would pay staggering sums of €53.7 – €57.5 million per acre for the two hotel sites, although these figures were soon trumped by others in what became a Klondyke-style gold rush rooted in a conviction that values could only go up.
Dunne was also betting that permission would be granted for a complex of buildings up to 32 storeys high, transforming Ballsbridge into “the new Knightsbridge” (even though that ritzy part of London has hardly any high-rise buildings), with some 600 luxury flats offering a Manhattan-like lifestyle.
Unbelievably, his vision was shared by senior officials of Dublin City Council, including then city architect Jim Barrett.
The Danish architect who designed the development told an An Bord Pleanála hearing that Barrett favoured the 37-storey design over a 32-storey tower originally proposed.
Senior planner Kieran Rose justified it all in his effusive report recommending that permission be granted, despite many objections from mainly well-heeled and articulate local residents.
He also endorsed the architects’ argument that the proposed high-rise cluster would give a “sense of place” to Ballsbridge.
Rose’s report, which formed the basis of city manager John Tierney’s decision to approve the scheme last March, even suggested that many people would find the “diamond-cut” 37-storey tower “exciting; in the words of [poet and Nobel laureate] Séamus Heaney, it could ‘catch the heart off guard and blow it open’.”
An Bord Pleanála has taken a different view, refusing permission for the entire scheme on five grounds – although Henning Larsen’s design director Ulrik Raysse can take some pride in the board’s reference to the “high quality of the architectural treatment of the individual buildings” proposed for the site.
But Dunne’s inflated project went down in flames because there was no basis in planning policy for permission to be granted. As An Taisce said in its appeal, not only did it “materially contravene” the city development plan, it was also “massively in excess of the plot ratio considered suitable” for Ballsbridge.
The Department of the Environment’s heritage division rowed in – with the express approval of Minister for the Environment John Gormley, who is one of the local TDs. It said the scheme would have “an undue negative impact on the adjacent architectural character and significance of the area . . . a fine Victorian suburb” of Dublin.
After lengthy consideration, An Bord Pleanála agreed. It said the scheme amounted to “gross over-development” of the site, as well as being “highly obtrusive” in the context of the visual amenity of the area, “making a radical change” in its urban form “at odds with the established character of Ballsbridge”.
Significantly, the board said “such change is not supported by any local or strategic objective in the [city] development plan. Nor had Ballsbridge been identified as suitable for high-rise treatment in the policy document Maximising the City’s Potential: A Strategy for Intensification and Height , published last January.
There were also precedents for the board’s ruling. In March 2005, six months before Dunne agreed to purchase the Jurys site, it rejected plans by telecoms tycoon Denis O’Brien for a 26-storey residential tower in Donnybrook on the grounds that its “excessive height and scale” would have an “overbearing” impact.
Dunne declared that, unless he got planning permission for his scheme in its entirety, he wouldn’t build anything on the two hotel sites.
Having racked up over €700 million on the acquisition of property in Ballsbridge, including AIB Bankcentre and Hume House, he is now left nursing huge debts with little to show for them.
With property values in Dublin plummeting, these pieces of real estate are probably worth less than half the huge money paid for them just three years ago. Number-crunchers in the banks with exposure to Dunne’s debts – particularly Ulster Bank – must be working overtime to calculate what can be salvaged now.
“What happened in Ballsbridge was planning in a vacuum or, more aptly, a bubble”, as colleague Kathy Sheridan and myself wrote in our book, The Builders . Like everyone else at the height of the boom, Seán Dunne, his bankers and the city planners were all carried away on a tide of hubris.
Ray Grehan, of Glenkerrin Homes, is still awaiting a decision from the appeals board on his plans for the former Veterinary College next door, for which he paid €171.5 million in November 2005. This scheme includes an 18-storey tower, and the board has requested further information on it before it makes a decision.
The huge amounts of money paid by Dunne and other developers for sites in Ballsbridge counted for nothing in the end, because An Bord Pleanála is required to make its decisions on the basis of “proper planning and sustainable development”.
By refusing permission, the board has officially buried the Celtic Tiger.
Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
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