Planning permission for a six-storey apartment block in Kilternan has been refused by Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council.
Calerotech Ltd was granted planning permission in October 2016 by An Bord Pleanala for 39 residential units and seven retail units at the site of the Golden Ball Pub on the Enniskerry Road.
Permission was then sought to extend the development to a six-storey apartment complex of 97 residential units, but the council has refused permission.
Among the reasons were: “Their height, bulk and scale would represent an overdevelopment of this site, at an excessive density and in material contravention of the provisions of the Kilternan Glenamuck Local Area Plan 2013-2019 (LAP).”
The council also stated that the proposed development would “adversely affect the use of the Enniskerry Road by traffic,” and that the height and external appearance of the development would interfere with the “character” of the surrounding landscape.
It also stated the proposed development would seriously injure the amenities of locals and could depreciate the value of their properties.
The Kilternan, Glenamuck & Carrickmines Residents Association (KGRA) has welcomed the decision to refuse planning permission.
In a statement on their Facebook page, they said: “A lot of work went into the Kilternan Glenamuck Local Area Plan (LAP) and the key facts of over-bearing, lack of play facilities, north facing issues, and above all height and density issues in this last rural area of Dun Laoghaire Rathdown are clearly recognised. This decision shows respect for our environment and community.”
Chair of the group Aileen Eglington told us: “I’m delighted that the council took the stance they did because this is the last rural village before the Wicklow border. Everybody in the area is absolutely delighted.”
On the KGRA Facebook page, the majority of the reactions from locals was of delight.
Some of the comments read: “Thank goodness, this would have been horrendous.”
“Delighted. That building is beyond ugly. Choose something in keeping with rural Ireland.”
“Always seemed very out of place for the location.”
TD Catherine Martin said it is good news for the local area as the proposal was a “substantial overdevelopment”.
Councillor Lettie Mc Carthy, (Lab) told us: “Everyone in the area is relieved with the news of this refusal.
“Some residents have expressed concerns about an appeal to An Bord Pleanala, but I honestly think the Bord would be making a mockery of Local Area Plans if they overturned the council’s decision.”
While Cllr Kevin Daly (IND) told us: “It is imperative that future developments in the Kilternan Glenamuck area adhere to the Local Area Plan and are sympathetic to existing development in the area.”
Councillor John Kennedy (FG) blasted local politicians for coming against the proposed development and said they have opted for a “populist stance”.
Calerotech Ltd is expected to appeal the decision to An Bord Pleanala.
