COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF SDZ, LAPS AND PLANNING PROJECTS

Friday, January 26, 2018

MOTION NO. 328

MOTION: Councillor G. O'Connell

Section 4.3 Phase 2 1001-2000 

Planning and commencement of works at Griffeen Valley Park Extension or Barony Park (North and South) in accordance with the prepared and agreed strategic Parks and Landscape Strategy and including at least a children’s playground and at least one playing field.

Councillors Guss O.Connell, Liona O’Toole, Paul Gogarty, Trevor Gilligan and Ed O’Brien.

REPORT:

Section 4 of the Draft Planning Scheme details the Phasing Programme for the development of the lands. The Phasing Programme aims to provide a balanced delivery of infrastructure, urban centres and community services in tandem with population increase through a logical flexible schedule.

It is noted that the Phasing Programme is based on the minimum delivery per phase, and any works may be brought forward and completed sooner than scheduled in the Phasing Programme.

In relation to the inclusion of reference to a playing pitch and children’s playground, Section 2.10 the Draft Planning Scheme requires a Landscape and Parks Strategy for the entire lands to be submitted prior to the commencement of development on the lands. The PLS will be a comprehensive framework setting out the overarching design details for the the strategic open spaces, local parks and squares, urban spaces and squares, strategic routes and local links. One of the key elements to be included in the PLS will be details of active (which includes playing pitches) and passive recreation provision on the lands.

Furthermore, each of the levels of open spaces will provide active recreation relative to their size and scale through the planning application process. Table 2.10.1 Design Criteria for Open Spaces, includes an objective to provide for a range of children’s play.

As such, the PLS is considered to be the primary mechanism by which playing pitches, outdoor activities and facilities for teenagers and other active recreation uses will be identified and proposed for the lands. In terms of the number, dimensions and type of playing pitches, these will be designated in the most suitable locations, having regard to environmental sensitivity issues and SUDs measures.

The Phasing Programme outlines that the strategic parks be planned and built in accordance with the Landscape and Parks Strategy.

It is considered that additional clauses to the description of the parks in the phasing is unnecessary as the intent of the motion is already covered in the Planning Scheme. Additionally, the Chief Executive recommends that the timing of Parks delivery remain as per the Phasing Programme. It is noted that the Phasing Programme and Planning Scheme will be reviewed as part of Phase 2.

Recommendation

It is recommended that the motion is not adopted.

Strategic Environmental Assessment of Chief Executive’s Recommendation

The PLS is consistent with a number of SEOs including landscape, biodiversity, water and population and human health SEOs; for the above reasons, it is not recommended for adoption.

Appropriate Assessment Screening of Chief Executive’s Recommendation

No likely significant effects on European sites within the SDZ’s zone of influence are predicted.