COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF DEVELOPMENT PLAN MEETING

Tuesday, September 01, 2009

MOTION NO. 38

MOTION: Councillor G. O'Connell

Amend 1.2.14.i by changing “to encourage” to “be open to” and drop “at suitable location”.

REPORT:

Section 1.2.14.i currently reads as follows:-

Policy H1: Higher Residential Densities

It is the policy of the Council to encourage higher residential densities at suitable locations, particularly close to existing or proposed major public transport corridors and nodes, and in proximity to major centres of activity such as town and district centres. In promoting more compact higher density forms of sustainable residential development it is Council policy to have regard to the policies and objectives contained in the following guidelines, and any new guidelines published during the lifetime of the Development Plan:

• Sustainable Residential Development in Urban Areas (2008)

• Urban Design Manual – A Best Practice Guide (2008)

• Quality Housing for Sustainable Communities (2007)

 

It is proposed to amend the section as follows:

 Policy H1: Higher Residential Densities

It is the policy of the Council to be open tohigher residential densities, particularly close to existing or proposed major public transport corridors and nodes, and in proximity to major centres of activity such as town and district centres. In promoting more compact higher density forms of sustainable residential development it is Council policy to have regard to the policies and objectives contained in the following guidelines, and any new guidelines published during the lifetime of the Development Plan:

• Sustainable Residential Development in Urban Areas (2008)

• Urban Design Manual – A Best Practice Guide (2008)

• Quality Housing for Sustainable Communities (2007)

The Draft County Development Plan sets out a coherent spatial planning framework for the entire County within the context of national and regional policies. The core strategic aim of the Plan is to promote a more consolidated and compact urban form for the County. Improving quality of life for residents whilst adapting to climate change are integral to the aim of the Plan. Consolidating the County by making the best use of land will result in a reduction in commuting times and will reinforce capital investments. Higher residential densities should be encouraged at appropriate locations and the Development Plan sets out polices to ensure that development results in a balance between the protection of existing residential amenities and the established character of areas, with the need to provide for sustainable residential development.

In relation to the SEA it must be noted that serious environmental concerns are raised in respect of the motion, in particular that the core strategy of the chosen development alternative is to encourage development in the urban area. Providing less defined language would undermine this core strategy.

Manager’s Recommendation:

The proposed motion should not be adopted.