COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF RATHFARNHAM/TEMPLEOGUE-TERENURE AREA COMMITTEE

Tuesday, November 13, 2018

MOTION NO. 6

MOTION: Councillor D. O'Donovan

"That this Area Committee requests the Chief Executive give a report on the current position in relation to the Carmelite Convent on the Firhouse Road.  There have been conflicting reports as to the future of the site so a statement from the Chief Executive would be very helpful."

REPORT:

A proposal has been received by the Council from a Tier 3 Approved Housing Body (AHB) in relation to the use of existing accommodation and facilities at the Carmelite Monastery to accommodate housing/homeless applicants. Please note that the AHB as the proposed user of the facility has submitted that:

• it is their view that the use is consistent with the last established use as a residential facility, and that the existing facilities are commensurate with that use;
• the bedrooms in their current format will be used by families for sleeping/accommodation and the large communal areas on the ground floor will be used for dining & social purposes including activity areas for children;
• no works other than internal decoration and painting will be undertaken;
• the property owner is providing evidence of compliance with relevant statutory building regulations and ensuring fire safety compliance;

It should be noted that given the current number of housing/homeless applicants for accommodation to this Council, a wide range of possible accommodation options are being examined and pursued across the County.  On that basis and noting the information submitted by the AHB as outlined above, notwithstanding any possible subsequent determination by the Planning Department or An Bord Pleanala on foot of the request below, the Housing Department are examining the proposal in detail including examining the proposed management structure, reviewing the experience of the provider in managing similar facilities etc. with a view to supporting the provision of much needed accommodation.