COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF DEVELOPMENT PLAN MEETING

Thursday, June 17, 2021

MOTION NO. 242

MOTION: Councillor F. Timmons

SLO - A desire to have the river Dodder central and more visible to the valley parkland - much is masked and hidden behind a strong, deep barrier of trees and brambles depriving park visitors of an opportunity to view, appreciate or interact with the river from the M50 upwards. Regular 'viewing' spots along the river side that might require sensitive and selctive pruning of riverbank growth, particularly at the Old Bawn bridge and waterfall and Balrothery Weir and watercourse.

REPORT:

The proposed motion seeks the inclusion of a SLO regarding more visible areas along the River Dodder for visitors. It should be noted that the River Dodder and its adjoining parkland areas are acknowledged as a significant element of the County’s ecological network and Green Infrastructure.  The river supports important populations of protected species including kingfisher, otter, bats, and a range of other key riverine species and habitats.  The riparian fringe of trees, shrubs and bramble therefore provide important screening from disturbance along stretches of the river for nesting kingfisher, dippers, and wagtails, while also providing breeding locations for otter and other creatures.  The Park from the M50 upstream, is a recognised proposed Natural Heritage Area, and as such, it is an objective to keep disturbance to a minimum.

Nonetheless, the council recognises the river, and its parkland areas are also a significant amenity resource. In its management of this significant biodiversity and amenity resource, the Council seeks to balance the provision of public amenity with the need to protect the river’s ecological resource from excessive disturbance by park users and dogs and therefore such a SLO would be contrary to the policies and objective of the County Development Plan.

It is considered that the motion should be amended to ensure appropriate protection of the wider environment and biodiversity while facilitating a suitable and appropriate viewing platform below Old Bawn Bridge in proximity to the Council’s Nature Trail sign.

Recommendation

It is recommended that the motion is adopted with amendment to insert an SLO into Policy 15, Views and Prospects which reads:

To facilitate a suitable and appropriate viewing platform, sensitive to surrounding ecological network, at Old Bawn Bridge in proximity to the Council’s Nature Trail sign.