COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF CLONDALKIN AREA COMMITTEE

Wednesday, October 20, 2021

MOTION NO. 16

MOTION: Councillor S. O'Hara

"That this Area Committee calls on South Dublin County Council Directors/Planning Section to study the habitat assessment report by ecologist Rory Hodd on Rathcoole Woodlands and its environs and take the findings into consideration in rezoning."

REPORT:

Following approval from the Elected Members, CS10 SLO 1 was inserted into the Draft County Development Plan to go on public display in July 2021. The SLO reads:

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 protecting existing habitats, Biodiversity and the Rathcoole Woodlands, 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.

Within this context, the review of draft ecological survey work carried out by independent consultants and the investigation of alternative land uses and zonings, began in Q3 2021. This work is on course for completion within the current quarter (Q4 2021).

The outcome of the investigations will be made available once completed and can be reviewed against the findings of external reports and submissions on the Draft County Development Plan including submissions on any Material Alterations at the next stage of the County Development Plan making process.