COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL
MEETING OF DEVELOPMENT PLAN MEETING
Thursday, June 17, 2021
MOTION NO. 220
MOTION: Councillor L. Donaghy, Councillor Liam Sinclair, Councillor Peter Kavanagh, Councillor S.McEneaney
Natural, Cultural and Built Heritage Motion: (Cross reference with Green Infrastructure): This Development Plan sets objectives relating to the protection and preservation of Rathcoole Woodlands in recognition of its Native Woodland status from rewilding, its biodiversity value and ecosystems services provision including:
To incorporate Rathcoole Woodlands into the Green Infrastructure Strategy as a pivotal GI Core with Rathcoole Park along the Camac Valley GI Corridor linking to Slade Valley and Crooksling Glen proposed Natural Heritage Area, Lugg Woods and the Rural Fringe Corridor.
REPORT:
The proposed motion seeks the inclusion of Rathcoole Woodlands into the Green Infrastructure Strategy.
It is recommended that the motion be amended and a Specific Local Objective (SLO) to be included for Rathcoole masterplan lands and environs. An SLO for the lands and environs is more appropriate in this instance as it examines the area in combination with other factors and investigates the potential for alternative land uses having regard to existing habitats, the need for social and affordable housing, community infrastructure and access. Such an investigation will also have due regard to the biodiversity and amenity value of the woodland.
Recommendation:
It is recommended that this motion is adopted with amendment to insert an SLO into Chapter 2, Core Strategy (CS) Policy 10: Rathcoole, CS 10 SLO1 and Map 8 to read ::
“To investigate the potential for alternative land uses for the lands currently zoned RES-N (To provide for new residential communities in accordance with approved area plans) and OS (To preserve and provide for open space and recreational amenities) as identified by the SLO on the CDP land use zoning map, having regard to, existing habitats, the need for social and affordable housing, community infrastructure and access. Following this assessment, and where alternative land use arrangements are identified in line with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area, to bring forward proposals for re-zoning.”