Contrasting Fortunes for Residential Development Schemes in North Dublin
In the realm of residential development in North Dublin, two developers have recently encountered divergent outcomes. While Fingal County Council has greenlit a substantial housing project in Donabate by Aledo Donabate Ltd, a separate decision has denied Dean Swift Property Holdings UC the opportunity to proceed with a development in Balbriggan. This article delves into the specifics of these contrasting planning permissions and their implications.
Development at Corballis East, Donabate
Aledo Donabate Ltd has received the green light from Fingal County Council to embark on a large-scale residential development in Corballis East, Donabate. This ambitious project entails the construction of 1,020 homes in a strategically located area just behind Smyths House pub. The centerpiece of this development is a 32-acre nature park, adding a touch of greenery to the residential landscape.
The proposed scheme comprises a mix of housing options, including 529 houses, 356 duplex/triplex units, 84 apartments, and 51 sheltered units. Moreover, the development aims to cater to the community’s needs by incorporating two childcare facilities with a capacity for 237 children, three retail units, two cafe units, and a medical center. Notably, the project also paves the way for a future primary school site on adjacent lands under the applicant’s ownership.
The planning documentation emphasises the expeditious development of the zoned and serviced site through the Large-Scale Residential Development (LRD) application. It is worth mentioning that the site already holds permission for a Strategic Housing Development (SHD) for 1,323 dwellings, with the SHD decision currently undergoing a judicial review process.
As part of its commitment to social and affordable housing, Aledo Donabate plans to allocate 102 dwellings for social housing to Fingal Council, amounting to approximately €39.88 million under Part V requirements. This initiative underscores the developer’s dedication to fostering an inclusive and sustainable community.
Dean Swift Property Holdings UC’s Proposal at Flemington Lane, Balbriggan
On the flip side, Dean Swift Property Holdings UC’s proposal at lands off Flemington Lane, Balbriggan, faced a setback as Fingal County Council denied planning permission for the development. The scheme, comprising 378 houses, 84 duplex units, and 102 apartments spread across 10 apartment blocks, encountered staunch opposition with a significant number of third-party objections.
The council cited three primary grounds for refusing planning permission for the Balbriggan project. Firstly, it deemed the scheme inadequate in providing high-quality open spaces, potentially resulting in a substandard residential environment. Secondly, the council highlighted concerns regarding the delayed delivery of essential infrastructure and the scheme’s failure to enhance connectivity and sustainable travel options in northwest Balbriggan.
Moreover, the council expressed reservations about the potential impact of the development on Natura 2000 sites in the vicinity, leading to its decision to withhold planning permission due to uncertainties regarding environmental repercussions.
