38 jobs at risk as council rejects Dealz application

DEALZ says it will appeal a decision by the council to refuse permission for its discount store in Clondalkin as 38 jobs hang in the balance.
Poundland Ltd, trading as Dealz, applied for a ‘change of use’ from warehouse to retail for its outlet at Fonthill Retail Park – but it was turned down.
More than 30 third-party submissions of support were lodged to the application with neighbouring traders, public representatives and Fonthill residents backing it.
A Dealz spokesperson told The Gazette: “We will be engaging with the appeals process through An Bord Pleanala to work towards a positive outcome.”
The planning issue was first raised in March 2016 when SDCC advised the store was retailing small goods and groceries in an area zoned for bulky goods only.
Cllr Trevor Gilligan (FF) said: “We have a situation where 38 staff who contribute €500,000 in wages to the local economy are at risk.”
Cllr Gilligan, one of those who lodged a submission of support, added: “The store has significant footfall, with staff serving approximately 250,000 people over the past year.
“This will have a negative impact for employment in North Clondalkin, and on the retail park itself.”
Next door neighbour Power City submitted a letter of support, as did Right Style Furniture, Eurasia Supermarket, Cash & Carry Kitchens and several other retailers.
Deputy John Curran (FF) also backed it, along with Fine Gael councillors Kenneth Egan, William Lavelle and Vicky Casserly.
The 670sq m shop has been trading for well over a year and in response to concerns raised by the council applied for a change of use from retail warehousing to shop including internal alteration.
A company spokesman said they would appeal “to ensure the long-term viability of our Fonthill store, ensuring Dealz remains as a key retailer and employer in Clondalkin.”