COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

Monday, September 09, 2024

QUESTION NO. Q33

QUESTION: Councillor E. Ó Broin

To ask the Chief Executive if the greening of buildings with a variety of creeping plants has been considered on any public buildings as a measure to address the climate and biodiversity crises but also as an aesthetic measure?

REPLY:

The application of climbing plants or creepers to external walls brings with it a number of complications with regard to compromising the function of the outer skin of the wall as a rain-screen, damage to the mortar joints, and damage to the external face of brick finishes. Creepers & ivy also have the effect of retaining further moisture directly against the external face of the wall.

The Council previously examined the provision of a Living Wall at County Hall however there was no suitable external wall and the main atrium concourse is not suitable due to the extent of maintenance required. If there are other location which you feel may be suitable, these can be examined to determine the feasibility of this type of installation.

 While SDCC do employ these types of plants on freestanding external walls and boundary conditions, it is not advisable to employ them where the façade has not been specifically designed to receive them. SDCC also includes a high degree of landscaping to its schemes both to improve the amenity of the residents, and in order to address surface water attenuation and biodiversity issues on a site specific basis.

 I trust that you will find the above in order, and I would be happy to meet with you directly to discuss this matter further if there are any further specific queries.