COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

South Dublin County Council Crest

MEETING OF LUCAN / PALMERSTOWN / NORTH CLONDALKIN AREA COMMITTEE

Tuesday, November 26, 2024

MOTION NO.12

MOTION: Councillor L. O'Toole

Cathaoirleach Business

This committee formally requests that the Chief Executive (CE) provide an update on the current status of the Village Green, including progress made to date. Specifically, the update should address the following: Details of Tree Removal: Information on any trees that have been removed, including the reasons for their removal, and clarification on any trees that were initially intended to remain or be relocated but were subsequently removed. Commitment to Christmas Tree and Lights: Confirmation that the Christmas tree and lights will be replaced, along with arrangements to ensure these are in place. Following this motion, we request that representatives meet with the Lucan Festival to discuss plans for the Christmas tree and the connection of the lights. Future Tree Planting Plans: Details on any planned tree planting, including timelines and, if available, information on the species selected for planting. We recognise that the removal of trees in the Village Green has caused concern within the community. To address this, we aim to improve communication about such changes with both the public and councillors, fostering greater transparency and trust in future developments.

REPORT:

During the public consultation stage for the scheme, the removal of seven trees was indicated while two trees (spruce and birch) were expected to be retained.  Regrettably, those two additional trees have had to be removed on independent specialist arborist advice but will be replaced by mature trees later in the project.  The birch was removed as its roots have already considerably damaged the wall causing stonework to fracture and dislocate and this will in time cause a collapse of the wall.  The spruce tree was originally assessed as being suitable for removal and replanting, but a detailed risk assessment has subsequently concluded that this is not feasible, while the Christmas lights there were damaged due to entanglement with branches and could not be salvaged for reuse, however replacement lighting will be arranged in consultation with Lucan Festival Committee and Councillors.

Planting to the village green will include trees and shrubs such as spindleberry, serviceberry, hydrangea and lavender as well as over 600 perennials and grasses.